Check out the new Mercedes CLE Cabriolet
We quite like Mercedes' grown-up four-seat coupe - which bodes well for the open-top version
Even though we’ve only just got to drive the new CLE - Mercedes halfway house replacement for both the C- and E-Class coupe - it feels like the model has already been around for some time. Probably that’s because the car was revealed all the way back in July of last year. We knew at the time that a convertible version would eventually follow - and now, a little over half a year later, here it is: behold the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet, dedicated to ‘year-round open-air enjoyment’.
Mercedes being at pains to stress the new model's usability is no surprise, of course. Much that is already familiar about the CLE Coupe carries over, but the manufacturer reiterates that its new multi-layer, exclusively electrically-powered soft top - available in black, red and grey - is all about ‘everyday comfort’ and points out that its Aircap electric wind deflector and Airscarf headroom heating system will both feature among the standard equipment. Refinement, after all, being fairly crucial in a cabrio specifically built to seat four.
From first-hand experience, we know the CLE can accommodate adults in the back. Mercedes reckons the newcomer is ‘the largest convertible in the mid-size segment’, and - partly thanks to its longer wheelbase - delivers as much as 72mm of additional knee room for rear passengers compared with the old C-Class. Behind them, there’s a 385-litre boot (295 litres with the top down) and even this can be extended using the 60:40 split folding seat backrests. To the front, the remainder of the cabin architecture is carried over, including the 11.9-inch central display.
Predictably, the engine lineup mirrors the coupe, too - there’s a choice of four-pots (including the entry-level diesel C220d) with a 3.0-litre straight six petrol capping things off in the CLE 450. All are mild hybrids, and are combined with ‘comfort’ suspension as standard - although if you wish you can have the ‘sports’ alternative with active dampers. The cabriolet is now available to order in Germany from 66,402 euros (around £57k) rising to 88,357 euros for the range-topper (think £75k). No word on UK spec or availability yet - or if a CLE 53 version will follow - but expect to know more when Mercedes launches in other European markets come April. Just in time for the summer, then.
The above picture does however demonstrate that it’s impossible to sit in the back and not look like a spare part.
The above picture does however demonstrate that it’s impossible to sit in the back and not look like a spare part.
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