The CLE-Class is a luxury coupe and convertible that replaces those body styles for both the compact C-Class and midsize E-Class, though it’s sized closer to the latter. It competes with the BMW 4-Series, Audi A5, and Lexus RC.
It’s sleek and powerful, and its interior is luxurious. That earns it a TCC Rating of 6.8 out of 10. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
Everything. The CLE-Class is new for 2024 and takes the place of both the C- and E-Class coupe and convertible. It combines the size of the E-Class with the sportier tuning of the C-Class. It stretches 191.0 inches long, which is actually 0.6 inch longer than the outgoing E-Class coupe, but its 112.8-inch wheelbase is 0.3 inch shorter.
The CLE sports a striking figure. It has a long hood, a long greenhouse (especially the coupe), and a sensuous shape created by wide and curvy front and rear fenders. Wheels up to 21 inches in diameter add to a planted stance. The convertible, which Mercedes calls a cabriolet, has a power soft top.
The coupe is set to come out first. At launch, the CLE coupe will offer three engines from the previous C- and E-Class models. The CLE 300 gets a 2.0-liter turbo-4 that spins out 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The CLE 450 4Matic has a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 that produces 375 hp and 369 lb-ft. The AMG CLE 53 has a version of the turbo-6 that ups the output to 443 hp and 413 lb-ft. All are mild hybrids with an integrated starter-generator that can add 23 hp and 151 lb-ft to aid launches. All models use a slick-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission, and all provide ready power, with 0-60 mph times ranging from 5.8 to 4.0 seconds.
So far we’ve only driven the coupe in CLE 300 and CLE 450 4Matic guises, and both have quick steering, sporty but not trackworthy moves, strong brakes, and a comfortable ride. The 450 4Matic and AMG 53 models have a sport-tuned suspension, and the ride gets firmer as the tires get bigger but it’s never harsh.
How much does the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class cost?
So far, Mercedes has announced the CLE-Class coupe in CLE 300, CLE 450 4Matic, and AMG CLE 53 models, but another AMG model is likely in the works, and the cabriolet will likely offer the same model lineup. Prices are yet to be revealed, but the CLE 300 coupe will come standard with navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated synthetic leather sport seats, a Burmester audio system, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The CLE also offers lots of standard and optional safety equipment. The standard features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, automatic parking, and automatic high beams. Safety options include adaptive cruise control, active lane control, an exit warning system, and a surround-view camera system.
Where is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class made?
In Bremen, Germany.
