The two-door coupe you see here is the replacement for two Mercedes-Benz models – two-door versions of the E-Class and the C-Class. We’ll call the newcomer the CLE. Although it has the underpinnings of the current C-Class sedan, the CLE is considerably bigger and roomier than the outgoing C-Class Coupe. In fact, courtesy of some clever packaging, it even pips the larger E-Class Coupe in some aspects, such as the shoulder and elbow room for the rear passengers.
In profile, it ticks all the right boxes. A long bonnet, large wheels within prominent wheel arches, an aggressive-looking front and a sexy rear. And amidst those aspects is space for four, accessible via two doors. Look at the whole design with more concentration, and the design cues taken from the C-Class aren’t hard to spot.
Even the cabin is nearly C-Class. The 12.3-inch instrument cluster, the dashboard design and the driver-focused 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system are only a few examples. What is different, however, are the front seats. They had to be to accommodate the tilt and slide function, which can be done using a small leather-wrapped loop on the upper edge of the backrest. Not just that, the front seats also house speakers in their headrests (part of the 17-speaker Burmester sound system).
The Mercedes-Benz CLE will commence its European innings (market dependent) with five engine options – one diesel and four petrol. All come mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission, while the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive option is reserved for three petrol derivatives. The diesel is a 2.0-litre unit outputting 194hp/440Nm, whereas the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol is available in two tunes – 201hp/320Nm and 255hp/400Nm. The range-topper – CLE 450 4MATIC – packs a 3.0-litre six-cylinder unit that produces 375hp/500Nm. That is the quickest to reach 100kmph, 4.4 seconds to be exact. All engines also benefit from mild-hybrid tech, which helps things along with an additional 23hp.
Features such as ambient lighting, rear axle steering, LED headlights, connected-car tech and a five-speaker sound system are standard on the Mercedes-Benz CLE. That list also includes many assistance systems such as Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Speed Limit Assist. And, of course, there’s a plethora of optional extras available.
The Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe goes on sale in Europe this November. Its convertible sibling will reach dealers sometime next year. And don’t worry; AMG versions and plug-in hybrids are also planned for the CLE.
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