HIGHLIGHTS
- The CLE Coupé is an all-new model in the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range, using the conceptual and technical innovations of the C-Class and E-Class.
- The new Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé is larger than the outgoing C-Class Coupé in every dimension, and measures 15mm longer than the outgoing E-Class Coupé.
- Iconic design cues and striking proportions have been retained to maximise the dramatic appeal of the CLE Coupé, which simultaneously conveys both dynamism and elegance.
- Increases in front leg room, rear shoulder room and rear elbow room over the E-Class Coupé ensure the new model stakes a claim as a genuine four-seat coupé.
- A two-model range utilises mild-hybrid, turbocharged four-cylinder engines, including an integrated starter generator and 48-volt electrical system for excellent response and efficiency.
Two of the most popular coupé models in the Mercedes-Benz range become one with the introduction of an all-new model line, the CLE Coupé. Following the discontinuation of the C-Class and E-Class coupé variants, Mercedes-Benz says they has simplified the choice for coupé fans.
The new CLE Coupé gains extra space in key dimensions, along with the signature design cues, sporty agility and luxurious appointments that made the previous models so irresistible, claims Mercedes-Benz.
Owners of the previous C-Class Coupé can feel particularly ‘comfortable’ in stepping up to the all-new CLE Coupé, which is larger in every physical dimension, resulting in extra cabin space across every key measure. The model gains an additional 60 litres of cargo space in the boot over the C-Class Coupé.
That includes extra leg room (+56 mm), knee room (+72 mm), head room (+10 mm), shoulder room (+19 mm) and elbow room (+19 mm) in the rear seats over the outgoing C-Class Coupé.
There’s even a new EASY-ENTRY function for rear-seat passengers, who can use a Nappa Leather loop at the upper edge of the backrest to slide the front seat forward.
Meanwhile, the CLE Coupé also grows by 15 mm in total length compared to the previous E-Class Coupé, and while the width is identical, rear shoulder room (+ 54 mm) and rear elbow room (+ 36 mm) grow significantly. In fact, the CLE Coupé is now the largest coupé in the mid-size segment, the company claims.
2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé: Design, proportions
The model’s profile is enhanced by a pair of contoured power domes on the bonnet, plus a ‘shark nose’ front section incorporating flat LED headlights and a distinctive radiator grille set with a single louvre and three-dimensional chrome elements in a Mercedes-Benz pattern.
At the rear, flowing surfaces and smooth transitions encompass two-part LED lights with new contours and three-dimensional light bodies. These are connected with a dark red design element that further emphasises the width of the rear, along with an AMG-inspired diffuser-look rear apron and integrated tailpipe trims.
2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé: Efficiency with an electrical boost
The all-new CLE Coupé will be offered with a choice of two variants – the Mercedes-Benz CLE 200 Coupé and the Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4MATIC Coupé.
Both are powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine featuring mild-hybrid technology that can provide a boost in power and torque.
Standard outputs in the CLE 200 Coupé are 150 kilowatts of power and 320 Newton-metres of torque, while the CLE 300 4MATIC Coupé lifts performance to 190 kW and 400 Nm.
In both models, the addition of a second-generation integrated starter generator (ISG) provides support at lower speeds. It also includes a 48-volt vehicle electrical system to support functions such as coasting, boost or recuperation, enabling significant savings in consumption Mercedes-Benz claims. The electric motor is capable of adding a boost of 17 kW and 205 Nm in either model.
Both models feature a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission which has been adapted for use with the ISG. The electric motor, the power electronics and the transmission cooler are moved into or onto the transmission, offering advantages in installation space and weight.
The 4MATIC all-wheel drive system utilised by the CLE 300 Coupé has also been further developed. With the front-axle drive, higher torques can be transmitted and ideal axle load distributions achieved in terms of driving dynamics. This also results in a significant weight advantage compared to previous coupé models.
2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé: Aggressive stance, agile ability
Both CLE Coupé models ride on sports suspension that is lowered by 15 mm in comparison to the existing C-Class and E-Class sedans. This not only lends a more assertive stance; it also offers a stiffer suspension and damping design, as well as sports direct steering for more direct handling and agility. In fast cornering or quick manoeuvres, this sporty chassis tuning results in less body roll. With amplitude-selective damping, added control needn’t sacrifice passenger comfort.
2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé: Luxurious appointments
Whichever CLE Coupé you choose, an exceptional level of standard features is guaranteed, says Mercedes-Benz. Both models benefit from a luxurious level of appointments including the latest generation of the MBUX infotainment system accessible via the stunning portrait-orientation 11.9-inch centre display screen, framed by striking anthracite linestructure lime wood trim. Standard ambient lighting offers a choice of 64 interior hues.
Other key appointments include a Burmester® surround sound system with Dolby Atmos (via a linked Apple Music account), a head-up display, heated front seats with memory function, a panoramic sliding sunroof, MBUX Navigation Premium package with augmented reality display, an automatic seatbelt feeder, wireless charging for mobile devices, smartphone integration, and a Parking Package with 360- degree camera.
Both models receive AMG Line exterior and interior trim enhancements, and the Night Package featuring black trim elements. The standard DIGITAL LIGHT package includes a projection function, plus two daytime running light ellipses and blue illumination of the headlight base, further reinforcing the dynamic appearance of the coupés. Both models ride on 19-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels in black, and receive a generous quota of standard safety fitment including Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Brake Assist, Blindspot Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, DISTRONIC active cruise control, and the PRE-SAFE® accident anticipation and preparation system.
Whilst the seats in the CLE 200 Coupé model are covered in ARTICO, the CLE 300 Coupé receives standard leather seats.
2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé: Pricing
The Mercedes-Benz CLE 200 Coupé is priced from $109,300 while the Mercedes-Benz 300 4MATIC Coupé is priced from $126,700 including on-road costs.
