Mercedes has finally pulled the covers off its anticipated CLE, a luxury coupe aiming to give the BMW 4 Series and Audi A5 a run for their money. But is this newcomer worth the buzz? Let’s dive in.
The CLE cleverly merges the bloodlines of the C-Class Coupe, E-Class Coupe, C-Class Cabriolet, and E-Class Cabriolet. Mercedes fans hoping for a fresh design will be thrilled with its sportier appeal, distancing itself from the C and E Class. A more pronounced grille, sleeker headlights, and a notably intriguing silhouette give it a distinctive identity.
Yet, not everything is innovative. Step inside, and you’ll spot an uncanny resemblance to the interiors of the C-Class and GLC. From the lavish 12.3-inch central touchscreen to the 11.9-inch driver’s display armed with the newest MBUX infotainment system, it’s a familiar but modern haven.
A standout feature? The CLE’s proactive MBUX system. It’s like your car becomes your personal assistant, learning your habits over time. So, you might find the cabin cooled to your preference as you hop in or be reminded of that crucial phone call. And with a more intuitive voice recognition system, initiating a command is more seamless than ever.
While the integration of apps like TikTok and Angry Birds on the central screen might appeal to the younger generation, one can’t help but wonder about its necessity in a luxury car.
Over-the-air updates and potential 5G connectivity are forward-thinking touches, ensuring the CLE remains up-to-date and connected.
Mercedes hasn’t skimped on safety. A comprehensive package, including attention assist, lane-keeping, and active brake assist, is standard. For those willing to upgrade, the ‘Advanced Plus’ package offers additional peace of mind with blind-spot assist and traffic sign recognition.
Come launch, the CLE won’t have a plug-in hybrid option. But eco-conscious consumers can choose from mild-hybrid petrol or diesel engines. At the entry-level is the CLE 220d, with a respectable 2.0-litre diesel engine churning out 200PS. At the top tier sits the CLE 400, boasting a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine and a robust 381PS.
All models are paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox, making for smooth transitions on the road.
The CLE Coupe is set to hit European dealerships in November. If the coupe isn’t quite your style, you might want to wait for the CLE Cabriolet, set for an early 2024 debut. For the speed enthusiasts, Mercedes has hinted at AMG versions in the pipeline, which undoubtedly will add some extra thrill.
In a nutshell, the CLE is a promising blend of the old and the new, drawing inspiration from its predecessors but carving its path. As for whether it can topple its competitors, only time will tell.
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We work with the majority of automotive brands in the UK, giving you access to the latest models and exclusive deals.
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