2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Debuts as a Replacement for C-Class and E-Class Coupes

Mercedes-Benz has officially taken the wraps off its all-new CLE coupe. The 2024 CLE coupe joins the brand's portfolio as a replacement for the currently available C-Class and E-Class coupe, while its convertible version will supersede the convertible versions of both the C-Class and E-Class coupe at a later date. The upcoming CLE convertible is currently under development and has been caught testing multiple times over the past year. The convertible version is expected to come with a fabric roof, similar to the current convertibles. When compared to a foldable hardtop, the droptop CLE's fabric roof will be lighter and more compact. Getting back to the coupe version, the German auto giant plans to sell the 2024 CLE in the European market in November this year, while the new product is slated to go on sale in the US by early 2024. 

Coming to the heart of the matter, the line-up will include a combination of 4- and 6-cylinder petrol and diesel powertrains and either rear- or all-wheel drive. Upon launch, the CLE 450 4Matic will use a 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder turbocharged engine accompanied by an integrated starter generator, cranking out 370bhp and 500Nm. This setup will also incorporate an all-wheel-drive system and a 9-speed automatic transmission. As a result, the CLE can accelerate from 0 to about 100km/h in 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 249km/h.    

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In addition, the CLE range will also include a base 4-cylinder 200d model, propelled by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine, delivering 441Nm and 194bhp. This unit will come with a rear-wheel-drive system. On offer will also be a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine (201bhp and 320Nm) with a rear-wheel-drive system. This will be joined by the all-wheel-drive CLE 300 4Matic with the same 2.0-litre petrol mill, producing 255bhp and 400Nm. The manufacturer says that each engine will be equipped with 48V mild-hybrid technology, which in turn will help develop an extra 23bhp.  

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE: Dimensions

Measuring 4,850mm in length, the new CLE is longer than the outgoing C- and E-Class coupes, as well as the BMW 4 series. While its width and height stand at 1,860mm and 1,428mm, respectively. 

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE: Design 

In terms of design, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE combines elements from the fifth-generation C- and the sixth-generation E-Class coupe. The CLE coupe features sleek LED headlights and a trapezoidal grille with a pronounced 'shark nose', mirroring the C-Class's design. Meanwhile, the full-width taillights linked by a dark red trim piece draw inspiration from the E-Class. The new coupe is further characterised by its low silhouette with a long wheelbase of 2,865mm, short overhangs, a long rear overhang, an inclined A-pillar, and larger wheel arches. 

Other bits include a long bonnet with power domes, a sloping windscreen, a sloping bootlid, a curvaceous C-pillar treatment, a curved roof, a flat rear window, etc.  

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE: Interior, Features

The cabin of the 2024 CLE houses a free-standing 12.3-inch digital instrument display and an 11.9-inch central display in user-friendly portrait format. The new model offers seating configuration in a 2+2 layout, with front seats featuring an avant-garde sports seat design with integrated headrests. Developed exclusively for the CLE, these front seats are heated and have an electro-pneumatic 4-way lumbar support as standard. According to the firm, these seats are unlocked with an elegant loop made of Nappa leather, located at the upper edge of the backrest.

On offer is also a standard 17-speaker Burmester surround sound system with Dolby Atmos, along with optional seat ventilation and a seven-zone massage function. 

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE: Hardware

The new two-door CLE is based on Mercedes-Benz's MRA platform. The suspension setup consists of four links per wheel at the front and multi-links at the rear. Besides, the CLE will also receive a sportier suspension setup, consisting of stiffer springs and direct steering. 

Also Read: 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review: First Drive

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE is touted as one of the German manufacturer's last dedicated ICE models since it is ramping up EV investment. Upon launch, the new CLE will be Mercedes-Benz's answer to the likes of the Audi A5 and the BMW 4 Series. As for its pricing, there is no official communication from the company.