Mercedes-Benz's CLE-Class Coupe was launched for the 2024 model year as the replacement for the coupe versions of both the previous-generation C-Class and E-Class, followed promptly by the arrival of its convertible version.
Revealed late on Monday as the CLE-Class Cabriolet, this elegant convertible is set to go on sale in Europe in April, while its availability in the U.S. has yet to be announced, although a launch later this year is likely, as either a 2024 or possibly a 2025 model.
Mechanically, the CLE-Class is related to both the latest C-Class and E-Class, but in terms of size and technology, it aligns more closely with the positioning of the E-Class. This strategy mirrors what Mercedes did with the CLK-Class two decades ago, where the CLK-Class was mechanically similar to the C-Class at the time but was positioned higher in the market.
Mercedes has not surprised with the design of the CLE-Class Cabriolet. Most lines are shared with the coupe, but the fixed roof has been replaced with a retractable soft-top. The roof's fabric consists of multiple layers to protect against sound and weather, and depending on the market, buyers can choose from black, gray, or red. Opening or closing the roof takes roughly 20 seconds and can be done at speeds of up to 37 mph.
The CLE-Class Cabriolet comes standard with an electronic wind deflector system. At the push of a button, small deflectors emerge from behind the rear head restraints to reduce turbulence in the cabin. For added comfort, Mercedes also includes its Airscarf heating system as standard, which provides warm air around the necks and throats of front-seat occupants.
Storage space in the trunk measures 13.6 cubic feet, reduced to 10.4 cubic feet when the roof is folded. For extra storage needs, the rear seats can be folded in a 60:40 split.
The interior design of the CLE-Class range is the same as in the latest C-Class, featuring a 12.3-inch floating display for the instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch floating display with a portrait orientation for the infotainment system.
The CLE-Class also adopts Mercedes' latest in-car technology, including a new electrical architecture that controls a wide array of functions and will support over-the-air updates in the future, as well as the installation of third-party apps. Examples include TikTok, Angry Birds, Zync video streaming, and the web browser Vivaldi. Apps like Zoom can also be used, thanks to a dash-mounted camera facing the driver and front passenger, though not while driving.
The CLE-Class Cabriolet has launched in Europe with a trio of 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine options, all featuring 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. For the U.S. market, Mercedes is likely to offer the car in CLE 300 and CLE 450 grades, matching the coupe. The CLE 300 grade gets a 2.0-liter turbo-4 rated at 255 hp, while the CLE 450 gets a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 good for 375 hp. In each case, a 9-speed automatic and all-wheel drive are standard. Expect the same for the convertible.
Buyers seeking greater performance can look forward to a pair of AMG grades, the CLE 53 and CLE 63 S E Performance. A CLE 53 Coupe has already arrived with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 and mild-hybrid combination good for 443 hp, and the same setup should feature in the CLE 53 Cabriolet. The CLE 63 S E Performance Cabriolet, meanwhile, should feature the same powertrain setup as the C 63 S E Performance, meaning plug-in hybrid technology teamed with a turbo-4 for a peak output of 671 hp.
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