Mercedes-Benz was an early mover in the “coupe-but-not-a-coupe” vehicle space, and its efforts have only increased after the initial push. We now have SUV coupes and 4-door coupes from the brand, and a new model is set to hit the streets in 2024. Unlike some Mercedes that wear the coupe name, the new CLE is an actual 2-door car that will arrive with a convertible version.
Mercedes will offer two versions of the all-new CLE, including the base CLE 300 and the upgraded CLE 450. Both cars get a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and either a 4- or 6-cylinder engine. Though it looks a lot like the C-Class and E-Class convertibles, the CLE slots between them on the interior space spectrum. That said, the automaker claims that the new coupe is significantly more spacious inside than a C-Class Cabriolet and notes that the CLE is the largest coupe in its segment. Expect sales of the new CLE to begin in early 2024.
Though it’s an all-new model, the CLE borrows some elements from other Mercedes coupes. The car features a 3-dimensional chrome grille and unique Mercedes logo. Power domes on the hood convey a sporty look, while the flat LED headlights bring a new daytime running light design and updated turn signals. An optional lighting feature brings welcome and goodbye animations, and the two-piece LED headlights are connected with a dark red accent on the back.
Mercedes’ interiors are high-tech and opulent, and the CLE is no exception. The CLE’s interior gets 64 colors of ambient lighting, along with light bands and accents on the doors and dash. A leather-wrapped sport steering wheel and a new front-seat design with integrated headrests come standard. Mercedes says it incorporated unique stitching and shapes with the seats for more visual interest, and heating comes standard. Ventilation and massaging are available for the front buckets, and memory settings with three users are standard.
Mercedes will offer a choice of two engines in the new 2024 CLE. The base mill is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder making 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The upgraded engine is a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 making 375 hp and 369 pound-feet of torque. Both engines come with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that replaces the starter motor. It makes the start/stop system almost impossible to detect when working and provides a slight horsepower boost to the engine. Both powertrains come with a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The car rides lower than the C-Class Cabriolet and has either comfort or sport suspension, depending on the trim.
Mercedes packs a few driver aids as standard equipment in the 2024 CLE, including a driver monitoring system, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, speed limit assist, and a parking sensor system. The Driver Assistance package includes several other advanced features, including Active Steering Assist, intersection turn assistance, blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning, Active Brake Assist, and more.
Since it’s an all-new model, neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has crash-tested the CLE.
The Mercedes CLE gets two massive interior screens that handle most of its settings and features. The 11.9-inch touchscreen comes in portrait orientation, accompanied by a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The system runs Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment interface and delivers sound through a standard Burmester 3D surround-sound system. The audio setup includes two speakers built into the headrests and offers Dolby Atmos functionality.
Mercedes installs the newest version of its MBUX infotainment software, which features upgraded voice controls and other functionality. It also enables third-party apps and routines, allowing owners to program actions for commonly used functions with one-touch activation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the driver can customize the gauge cluster based on the driving mode or their mood.
The CLE will be in an odd place when it arrives, as it’s not directly aligned with models from Audi and BMW. That said, buyers may cross-shop the A5 Coupe, which is available in a higher-performance S5 guise. They could also shop the BMW 8 Series, though its pricing and performance may outstrip the CLE by a large margin. Finally, there’s the Jaguar F-Type, which blends striking styling, strong performance, and all the swagger the British brand is known for.
Mercedes-Benz is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of July 10, 2023, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
Chris Teague is an experienced writer in the automotive and technology fields. In addition to JDPower.com, his work appears at Forbes, The Drive, Your Test Driver, and others.
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