What is it?
The Mercedes CLE Coupé enters the market as a stylish yet pricey two-door model, filling the gap left by the outgoing C-Class and E-Class coupés. Designed for those who value luxury and comfort in a sleek package, it also introduces a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model. The question is whether it can live up to the legacy of its predecessors or compete with rivals like the BMW 4 Series and Audi A5.
Design and Styling
The Mercedes CLE Coupé embodies the brand’s classic elegance, with design elements borrowed from both the C-Class and E-Class that bring a fresh look without feeling radical. The front end is dominated by a large grille flanked by sleek LED headlights, which lend it a sophisticated yet assertive presence. A long, sloping bonnet gives the car a smooth, aerodynamic profile, with gentle curves rather than aggressive angles—this is a coupé built more for refined style than outright sportiness.
Along the sides, the CLE features subtle creases and sculpted lines that add a sense of motion even when standing still. The rear design takes inspiration from Mercedes’ SUV range, with rear lights reminiscent of the GLC. This styling choice doesn’t scream performance but instead gives the CLE a distinguished, mature look that will likely appeal to those seeking understated luxury. While this makes it visually cohesive with other Mercedes models, some may feel it doesn’t stand out enough from the brand’s other sedans and SUVs. For those wanting a sportier edge, the AMG Line offers larger alloy wheels, sporty bumpers, and optional chrome accents to amplify the visual appeal.
The overall design of the CLE Coupé is clearly tailored to a market that values style and comfort over the more aggressive looks of competitors like the BMW 4 Series. It’s a classic Mercedes approach: elegant, refined, and unmistakably premium, but it stops short of embracing the boldness of some of its rivals. This will suit buyers looking for a more traditional luxury coupé experience.
Interior and Features
The CLE’s interior stays true to Mercedes’ reputation for well-crafted, tech-forward cabins, though it doesn’t set new standards in quality. The design mirrors the C-Class, with a minimalist layout focused around a large digital infotainment screen and digital instrument cluster. Soft-touch materials cover much of the cabin, while chrome and high-gloss highlights add visual interest. The adjustable ambient lighting system, which can change colours based on mood or driving mode, gives the interior a customisable, almost lounge-like atmosphere.
Seating in the CLE is exceptionally comfortable, with plush, well-cushioned seats that provide good lumbar support for long journeys. The driver’s seat offers electric adjustments as standard, and those who opt for the AMG models get sport seats with extra side bolstering to improve support during more spirited driving. However, the seating position is slightly higher than that of some rivals, which may feel less sporty to those accustomed to the low-slung nature of traditional coupés. Visibility is generally good from the driver’s seat, though the thick rear pillars can obstruct over-the-shoulder views—making the standard rear-view camera a practical addition, particularly in tighter spaces.
Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment system is the centre piece of the CLE’s tech suite. The touchscreen is responsive, with a redesigned interface that features larger icons, making it easier to navigate while on the move. There’s also a range of Android-based apps like Zoom and TikTok that can be used directly from the screen.
Performance and Handling
The Mercedes CLE Coupé offers a range of engines, from efficient four-cylinder petrol and diesel options to the high-powered AMG CLE 53. The AMG model, equipped with a 3.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 443bhp, achieves 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds, and features Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system for strong grip and stability. For added performance, the optional Pro Performance Package includes launch control, cutting this time to 4.0 seconds, and adds a Drift mode for a more playful, rear-wheel-focused driving experience—a unique edge over rivals like the BMW M440i. While the CLE 53 offers capable handling with adjustable suspension settings, it favours stability over agility, lacking the sharpness of the BMW 4 Series.
Mid-range options like the CLE 300 provide a solid balance of power and economy, combining a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system for a 0-62mph time of 6.2 seconds. The CLE 300e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) offers a quieter, efficient city drive with an electric-only range of up to 69 miles, although this drops on motorways. Lower-range models, like the CLE 200 petrol and 220d diesel, cater to comfortable cruising rather than sporty driving, achieving moderate acceleration with rear-wheel drive for a traditional coupé feel. Throughout the lineup, the CLE delivers a smooth, composed ride, though the emphasis on comfort and stability means it doesn’t quite match the dynamic engagement of some competitors.
Practicality
The Mercedes CLE Coupé balances the elegance of a two-door design with a surprisingly practical interior for its class. While rear-seat access can be challenging due to the coupé body style, the CLE offers more rear legroom than many rivals, making it a comfortable option for shorter journeys with adult passengers in the back. The front seats are spacious and supportive, ideal for long-distance driving, and come with ample adjustment options to enhance driver comfort.
Boot space is reasonable but falls short compared to competitors like the Audi A5. The CLE’s boot offers 420 litres, which is enough for a couple of suitcases or a weekly shop but might feel limited for those who regularly need more cargo capacity. The plug-in hybrid model, however, loses some of this space to accommodate the battery pack, reducing its practicality slightly compared to the petrol and diesel models.
Verdict
The Mercedes CLE Coupé is a stylish, comfortable choice for those prioritising luxury and long-distance cruising over sporty handling. Its refined interior and advanced tech make for a pleasant cabin, although some materials fall short of class-leading quality, and the touchscreen controls can be a bit distracting. The engine options cater to various needs, from efficient commuting to AMG-level performance, but even the sportiest models focus more on stability than agility.
While rear-seat space is decent for a coupé, the CLE's practicality is limited by its two-door layout and modest boot capacity. Overall, it’s a strong, well-rounded addition to Mercedes' lineup, though it may not stand out for those seeking a more dynamic or spacious option.
