Mercedes-Benz unveils new CLE-Class

THE new CLE aims to offer a coupe option for C- and E-Class customers, replacing the two-door option for both model classes, with unique features and a range of engine options.

Mercedes-Benz will launch the coupe variant across Europe in November this year, with the drop-top option slated for 2024 – for customers wanting to feel the wind in their hair.

The CLE appears to borrow much of its front-end design from the W206 C-Class albeit with a redesigned three-dimensional grille and pronounced ‘power dome’ bonnet lines, giving it a slightly more aggressive appearance.

From behind, the CLE features two-part LED taillights across a short, stout rear-end topped off with familiar twin exhaust tips.

The CLE features a 25mm longer wheelbase than the C-Class and at 4850mm long offers more space too, with rear passengers benefiting from 72mm more legroom and 10mm more headroom.

Mercedes-Benz even says the 60-litres of boot space can “easily hold three golf bags”, a suitable scenario given the target market.

Inside, the CLE adopts the latest MBUX system fed to a 12.5-inch digital display and 11.9-inch portrait centre display, as well as ambient lighting with 64 colour options.

The five engine options range from a base 150kW four-cylinder to a range-topping twin-turbocharged six-cylinder producing 280kW/500Nm, all equipped with a 48-volt mild hybrid system good for an extra 200nm burst of shove when needed.

There is also a four-cylinder diesel engine option due, producing 145kW/440Nm, but Australia is unlikely to receive this option.

Dynamics and driving position are improved too with a 15mm lower chassis than the C-class, as well as the brand’s dynamic body control with continuously adjustable damping available with the technology package. 

Rear-steering is also featured for the technology package, offering up to 2.5 degrees of angle reducing the turning circle by 500mm – which is already better than that of the C-Class Coupe at 10.7- versus 11.2-metres.

As expected, the full suite of safety technology comes as standard, which Mercedes says has been further developed, with features like Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Speed Limit Assist, and parking package with reverse camera.

While an AMG option has not been announced, it is likely to appear on the scene in the future and Mercedes-Benz has confirmed it is working on a plug-in hybrid option.

While no official Australian pricing has been offered, Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the model will make its way Down Under in the second half of 2024.