Review of the Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe

The new 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe is a sophisticated addition to the Mercedes line-up, designed to replace both the C-Class and E-Class coupes. This new model slots neatly into Mercedes’ offerings, positioned above the C-Class but below the larger S-Class in terms of both size and luxury.

Rivals to the Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe include the BMW 4 Series, Audi A5, and the Porsche 718 Cayman.

Our Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe review covers:

• Stunning sporty design with a low roofline, and a wide stance
• Luxurious interior that’s spacious and meticulously crafted interior
• 420-litre boot space
• Range of efficient engines, including mild and plug-in hybrid technology ‎‎‎
• Three trim levels are available: AMG Line, AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus

Pros:

• Luxurious interior
• Elegant and design
• Advanced technology

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Rear headroom space
• Rival coupes have bigger boots

The Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe is a striking addition to the luxury coupe segment, seamlessly blending elegance with a sporty aesthetic. The exterior design is a testament to Mercedes-Benz's commitment to creating vehicles that are not only visually appealing but also aerodynamically efficient. The CLE features a sleek, low-slung silhouette, accentuated by sharp lines and a muscular stance that gives it an unmistakably athletic look. The frameless doors and smooth, flowing roofline further enhance its dynamic appearance, ensuring that it stands out on UK roads. The front end is dominated by the signature Mercedes grille and distinctive LED headlights, which add to its imposing presence.

While coupes are often associated with style over substance, the Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe challenges this notion by offering a surprising level of practicality. Despite its sporty exterior, the CLE is designed with everyday usability in mind. The interior is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate four adults, with ample legroom in the front and a reasonable amount in the rear – a rarity in this segment. Mercedes has cleverly designed the rear seats to offer more space than you might expect, making it a viable option for longer journeys or for those who need to carry passengers regularly.

The boot space in the Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe is another area where it impresses. With a capacity of 420 litres, it offers plenty of room for luggage, shopping, or even a set of golf clubs. This makes it one of the more practical coupes in its class, particularly when compared to some rivals that sacrifice boot space for style. The boot’s layout is also practical, with a wide opening and a flat load floor, making it easy to load and unload items.

The interior of the Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe is a masterclass in luxury and technology, combining high-quality materials with cutting-edge features to create an environment that is both comfortable and driver-focused. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted by a sense of refinement that is characteristic of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

The CLE Coupe’s cabin is dominated by a pair of impressive screens that serve as the heart of the car’s infotainment and driver information systems. The centrepiece is the 11.9-inch MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) touchscreen, which is mounted in a portrait orientation on the dashboard. This screen controls virtually all aspects of the car's functions, including navigation, media, climate control, and vehicle settings. The interface is intuitive and can be operated via touch, voice control, or steering wheel-mounted controls.

In front of the driver, there is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that can be customised to display a variety of information, ranging from traditional speedometer and tachometer readings to navigation maps and driver assistance systems. This digital cockpit ensures that all critical information is easily accessible without the driver having to take their eyes off the road.

The Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe is available in three distinct trim levels: AMG Line, AMG Line Premium and AMG Line Premium Plus.

AMG Line

The AMG Line is the entry-level trim for the CLE Coupe, but it’s far from basic. It includes sporty design elements inspired by Mercedes-AMG models, such as AMG body styling, 18-inch alloy wheels, and sports seats with Artico man-made leather upholstery. The interior also features a flat-bottomed sports steering wheel and brushed stainless steel pedals, enhancing the sporty feel. The standard MBUX infotainment system, with its 11.9-inch screen, is included, along with keyless start and a reversing camera.

AMG Line Premium

Stepping up to the AMG Line Premium trim brings additional features that enhance both comfort and convenience. This trim level includes larger 19-inch alloy wheels, an upgraded Burmester surround sound system for superior audio quality, and a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light. The interior also benefits from a wireless charging pad for your smartphone and enhanced ambient lighting. The seats are upgraded to include heating functions for added comfort during the colder months.

AMG Line Premium Plus

At the top of the range, the AMG Line Premium Plus trim offers the ultimate in luxury and technology. This trim includes all the features of the AMG Line Premium, plus additional enhancements such as 20-inch alloy wheels and Multibeam LED headlights with Adaptive Highbeam Assist. The interior is upgraded with Nappa leather upholstery, and the front seats gain ventilation as well as heating. The Premium Plus trim also includes a head-up display, projecting key information onto the windscreen, and an advanced Driver Assistance Package, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.

The Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe offers a balanced mix of power and efficiency, featuring a range of engines to suit different driving preferences. The CLE 200 and CLE 300 come with a 2.0-litre petrol engine, delivering 204 hp and 258 hp, respectively. The top-of-the-range CLE 450, with its 3.0-litre straight-six engine, delivers 381 hp, combining strong performance with Mercedes’ EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology for added efficiency. For those favouring diesel, the CLE 220d offers a 2.0-litre engine that excels in fuel economy.

The driving experience of the Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe is characterised by a smooth, composed ride and precise handling, qualities that are further enhanced by the car’s advanced suspension system. The CLE is equipped with a multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, which has been finely tuned to provide a perfect balance between comfort and agility. This means the CLE is just as comfortable soaking up the imperfections of British roads as it is carving through a series of corners.

Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system is available on higher-spec models, providing additional traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. This feature, combined with the CLE’s low centre of gravity and balanced chassis, ensures that the car remains composed and confident in all driving situations.

The Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe is now available for purchase at a starting on-the-road price of £45,500.00*, or it can be leased with monthly payments starting from Price On Request.

If you're considering leasing a Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe, we proudly offer excellent car leasing services in the UK. Our leasing deals include a manufacturer's warranty, road tax, breakdown insurance, and free delivery to most areas of the UK mainland (excluding specific regions).

Leasing a Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe can often be a more financially advantageous option compared to purchasing outright, thanks to the fixed monthly payments, variable mileage options, low initial rental, and flexible contract durations.

It's important to note that the 'on-the-road' price mentioned includes a year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee, and a number plate fee. Please be aware that this price is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change. To get the most up-to-date information, we recommend contacting your nearest retailer.