Mercedes CLE: Potent AMG 53 pair revealed
Mercedes has revealed prices for its all-new CLE line-up, which replaces the C Class and E Class Coupes and Cabriolets.
Featuring a sleek new look, the CLE 200 AMG Line will be priced from £52,995 rising to £76,765 for the CLE 450 4Matic Premier Edition.
There will also be a fiery AMG 53 available as both a Coupe and Cabriolet, with the latter joining the SL Roadster as the second open-top performance model from the division.
Mercedes CLE fast facts
- Replaces coupe and cabriolet C and E Class
- Stunning interior
- Borrows engines from C Class
- Potent AMG 53 tops the line-up
- Will take on Audi A5 and BMW 4 Series
Mercedes CLE styling
The CLE is designed to replace two cars – the C Class and E Class coupe and cabriolet. As such, size-wise it fits between these two outgoing models. It borrows styling elements from the latest Saloon versions of these models, but adds a sporty twist.
Up front, the grille is larger than the standard C Class, while the headlights and air intakes are slimmer and wider. Side on, it’s easy to mistake the new model for the outgoing C Class Coupe, taking on its classic teardrop silhouette.
At the rear, the design isn’t dissimilar to the CLA, although a new light bar bumper help it stand out. A host of sportier alloy wheels will be offered, with 18in, 19in and 20in units being offered depending on trim leve.
Mercedes CLE interior and tech
Inside, things are typically Mercedes, with the trim and materials matching the quality and feel of the brand’s other cars.
Some notable changes compared to the outgoing models include an updated steering wheel design (like the new C Class), as well as a stunning new 12in infotainment system.
It is of course compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and appears raised from the dash itself blending neatly between the air vents and centre console.
A host of trim levels will be offered, with AMG Line models available with leather-effect sports seats and contrasting carbon-fibre style trim.
Mercedes CLE drivetrains
From launch, you’ll be able to choose from a range of engines that are already available in the latest C Class. They all feature mild-hybrid tech and a silky smooth automatic gearbox.
Mercedes has added some suspension tweaks to make it a sportier drive than the existing saloon models; it’s around 15mm lower while features such as adaptive suspension are available.
Petrol models include a 2.0-litre unit that produces around 200hp. There’s also a diesel that produces the same power.
The 2.0-litre can also be specified with 260hp and comes with an all-wheel drive system as standard. The most potent unit is a 3.0-litre petrol engine that produces 381hp – enough to get you from 0-62mph in just 4.5 seconds.
Mercedes CLE AMG 53
Mercedes has confirmed it’ll also offer a Mercedes-AMG model – the CLE 53 Coupe and Cabriolet. Featuring a potent six-cylinder engine, it’ll be quicker and more powerful than the E53 Coupe it is set to replace.
It’ll get mild-hybrid tech too, and get a 0-62mph time of just 4.2 seconds.
Top speed will be limited to 155mph, and it’ll get a raft of styling tweaks that’ll mark it out from standard cars like an AMG grille, wider body skirts and AMG-specific 19in alloy wheels.
Mercedes CLE prices and lease deals
The coupe is set to hit the market later this year, with deliveries commencing in early 2024. The cabriolet will also arrive next year. It’ll be priced from £52,995.
We’ll bring you the best lease deals as soon as they’re available. In the meantime, you can check out Mercedes lease deals that are available right now by hitting the button below.
