Introducing the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE, a sleek and elegant coupe that replaces the coupe and cabriolet versions of the C- and E-Classes. With coupes becoming less popular, Mercedes decided to consolidate its offerings, resulting in the CLE being one of only two actual coupes in the lineup, alongside the AMG GT. Priced at an MSRP of $66,800, the CLE is targeted towards individuals who appreciate the beauty of a coupe and are looking for a personal luxury car for retirement or leisure.
1. Beauty Comes at a Cost: Despite the compromises that come with a coupe, such as limited ease of use and accessibility, the CLE offers some utility with a surprisingly large trunk, making it suitable for the target demographic. The AMG multispoke 20-inch wheels enhance the car’s appearance, and unique features like AMG-logo floor mats add a touch of luxury.
2. A Nautical Marvel: The CLE Coupe’s striking Starling Blue Metallic exterior is complemented by white Nappa leather interior, creating a nautical theme. LED accents in the cabin, including the Mercedes star projected by the side mirrors, and thoughtfully placed blue lighting throughout the car, add to its special and futuristic ambiance.
3. Silky Smooth Power: Powered by a 3.0-liter turbo inline-six engine, the CLE delivers 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It features a mild hybrid system that eliminates turbo lag and provides a boost of up to 23 horsepower. The power delivery is exceptionally smooth, aligning with the car’s luxury persona. However, some have noted that the brakes are not as responsive as expected, requiring more pressure for effective stopping.
4. Luxurious, but Lacking: While the engine and overall luxury of the CLE Coupe impress, Mercedes falls short with the use of capacitive controls. The steering wheel’s four banks of capacitive controls make operating them without looking challenging, and the lack of a physical knob for adjusting controls undermines the car’s luxury feel. A throwback to physical switchgear would better align with the coupe’s timeless elegance.
5. Polite and Practical: The CLE offers a wireless charging pad, a highly sought-after feature among car buyers. Placed in a recessed area in the center console, it ensures a discreet and safe charging experience. Mercedes even goes the extra mile by reminding drivers not to forget their phone when leaving the car, highlighting their attention to detail and customer experience.
6. Mind the Distortions: The backup camera in the CLE Coupe has been known to provide distorted views, similar to a funhouse mirror. While the intention behind this distortion is unclear, it might be to emphasize the camera’s guidelines or accommodate the surround view feature. Potential buyers should test this feature during a test drive to determine if it meets their expectations.
Overall, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe offers a combination of beauty, luxury, and practicality. With its elegant design, smooth power delivery, and thoughtful features, it appeals to those looking for a personal luxury coupe experience. However, some drawbacks, such as the use of capacitive controls and backup camera distortions, warrant consideration. As Mercedes continues to innovate and refine its offerings, future iterations of the CLE Coupe may address these concerns, further enhancing the overall driving experience.