Mercedes-Benz trademarks ‘C53’ name

Daimler has reportedly applied for an international trademark regarding the 'C53' badge, hinting there could be a new go-fast version of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class in the pipeline.

First reported by AutoGuide, the German manufacturer lodged the application with the World Intellectual Property Organization.

While Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Benz haven't confirmed such a model at this stage, it's pretty logical to assume a C53 would be motivated by a powertrain similar to that used by the brand's other AMG 53 models – meaning some form of electrification is almost certain.

In the larger AMG CLS53 and AMG E53, there's a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six paired to a mild-hybrid system, involving a 48V starter motor and generator integrated into the transmission.

The petrol engine makes 320kW of power and 520Nm of torque in the CLS53 and E53, while the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system adds a further 16kW and 250Nm for short periods.

All current AMG 53 models send drive to the tarmac via a nine-speed automatic transmission, making for a mid-4.0-second 0-100km/h sprint.

Currently, the mid-tier AMG C-Class variant is the C43 (pictured), which makes 287kW of power and 520Nm from its turbocharged V6 after a recent mid-life update, capable of doing the 0-100km/h run in a claimed 4.7 seconds.

Should Mercedes introduce a C53, it will likely replace the C43 – the E-Class range has already seen this change overseas for the 2019 model year – though it will either come has an update of the updated version, or form part of the next-generation C-Class range due in 2020, considering the facelifted model just launched.

We'd wager it will be slightly detuned compared to the CLS and E-Class AMG 53 variants as well, as the C43 ran slightly lower outputs than its larger E43 sibling despite having near-identical powertrains.

Stay tuned to CarAdvice for all the latest.

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