The German automaker introduces the much-anticipated Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe, set to make a European market entry this November.
Mercedes-Benz is ushering in a new era by replacing two stalwarts from its lineup – the C-Class Coupe and the E-Class Coupe. Stepping in to fill the sizable shoes of both is the freshly minted CLE Coupe.
Dimensions and Space: The CLE Coupe proudly boasts a length of 4,850mm, a width of 1,860mm, and stands at a height of 1,428mm. Its wheelbase is a solid 2,865mm, marking a 25mm advantage over the C-Class Coupe. This revamped configuration ensures backseat passengers enjoy 10mm more headroom, an additional 19mm shoulder room, and a generous 72mm extra knee space. The trunk capacity hasn’t been left behind either, with a 60-liter augmentation.
Design Aesthetics: Staying true to the “Sensual Purity” design philosophy, the CLE Coupe shares a striking resemblance with the C-Class sedan. Unique LED headlights, a 3D-effect radiator grille, and LED tail lights are among the key visual attractions. The dashboard design is reminiscent of the C-Class, albeit carrying the ‘E’ designation. However, the luxurious cabin doesn’t skimp on premium materials, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an 11.9-inch central display for the MBUX multimedia system, 64-color ambient lighting, and an optional Burmester 3D audio system. Tech enthusiasts will appreciate its 5G-enabled multimedia system, supporting gaming, TikTok streaming, and video conferencing via Webex and Zoom.
Powertrain Options: For now, Mercedes-Benz exclusively pairs the CLE Coupe with 48V mild-hybrid engines, in both petrol and diesel configurations. The CLE 220d takes the lead with a 2.0-liter diesel engine, churning out 200 horsepower. It’s closely followed by the CLE 200, a petrol variant, registering a power of 204 horsepower and a 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.4 seconds. The CLE 300 enhances performance with 258 horsepower, a 6.2-second 0-100 km/h timing, and 4Matic all-wheel drive. Sitting atop is the CLE 450 4Matic, powered by a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, producing 381 horsepower, and achieving 0-100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds.
Additional features include a 15mm lowered chassis and the optional Technology package boasting the Dynamic Body Control and rear-wheel steering. Future prospects for the CLE Coupe are promising, with plug-in hybrid versions and high-performance AMG variants in the pipeline.
Safety First: Standard safety features encompass Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Speed Limit Assist, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, and the Active Distance Assist Distronic technology (exclusive to Western Europe).
Coming Up: A convertible variant of the CLE Coupe is slated for a 2024 launch.
