The 2025 Mercedes‑Benz CLE300 Cabriolet arrives as a fresh expression of modern luxury, blending the elegance of a grand tourer with the carefree spirit of open‑top motoring.
As the newest addition to Mercedes‑Benz’s evolving lineup, the CLE300 Cabriolet positions itself between the familiar C‑ and E‑Class traditions—yet feels distinctly its own. With refined styling, thoughtful technology, and a focus on everyday comfort, it aims to be the convertible that doesn’t require compromise. But does it deliver on that promise?
We take the car for a 1,200km road trip from Wellington to Auckland and return to see what it’s like to live with on a “summer” roadie.
What’s the competition for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE300 Cabriolet?
| Make/ Model | Engine | Power/ Torque (kW/Nm) | 0-100km/h (seconds) | Fuel (L/100km) | Boot Space (litres) – top down/top up | Price |
| Mercedes-Benz CLE300 4MATIC Cabriolet (AWD) | 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-petrol | 190/400 | 6.6 | 7.7 | 295/385 | $137,500 |
| BMW 4 Series Convertible (RWD) | 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-petrol | 135/300 | 8.2 | 6.9 | NA/385 | $123,900 |
| Ford Mustang GT Convertible (RWD) | 5.0-litre V8 petrol | 362/567 | 4.9 | 13.0 | 320/320 | $101,990 |
2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE300 Cabriolet – Specifications
| Vehicle Type | 2-door convertible |
| Starting Price | $137,500 |
| Price as Tested | $137,500 |
| Engine | 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-petrol |
| Power, Torque (kW/Nm) | 190/400 |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Spare Wheel | Repair kit |
| Kerb Weight (Kg) | 2,000 |
| Length x Width x Height (mm) | 4851x1861x1425 |
| Boot Space (litres) – top down/top up | 295/385 |
| Fuel tank capacity (litres) | 66 |
| Fuel Economy (L/100km) | Advertised Spec – Combined – 7.7 Real-World Test – Combined – 7.5 Low Usage: 0-6 / Medium Usage 6-12 / High Usage 12+ |
| Towing Capacity (Kg, unbraked/braked) | N/A |
| Turning circle (metres) | 11.7 Small: 6-10m / Medium 10-12m / Large 12m+ |
| Warranty | 5-year/unlimited km new vehicle warranty 3 years scheduled servicing |
| Safety information | ANCAP Rating – 5 stars (but expired) Rightcar.govt.nz – 5 Stars – MBNZ11 |
