The New Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet

In a world where ordinary cars just get you from A to B, the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet is here to make that journey feel like a personal runway show. This four-seater convertible is a luxurious companion that whispers “style” in every mile…well kilometer.

Imagine breezing down the road with the wind in your hair, cozied up in a cabin that’s more like a boutique hotel than a vehicle interior. Let’s dive into what makes the new CLE Cabriolet a striking object of automotive affection.

Open-Air Freedom, Whatever the Weather

“Convertible season” just got expanded. Gone are the days of painfully cold wind slaps in the winter – the CLE Cabriolet’s AIRCAP® and AIRSCARF® systems mean you can enjoy that roof-down lifestyle in any season. These two systems ensure that your open-air experience is warm and smooth, even when the thermometer says otherwise. With the tap of a button, AIRCAP® lifts a wind deflector on the windscreen to send the breeze over your head, while AIRSCARF® blows warm air around your neck. Winter? Who cares? You’ll be out there, toasty and stylish, with the sky as your ceiling.

And don’t worry about the occasional unexpected drizzle. The fabric soft top is the automotive version of your favorite puffer jacket: it’s warm, cozy, and comes in colors like black, red, or grey. This plush top zips up or down in under 20 seconds, even at 60 km/h. It’s even electrically powered for extra hush, so you won’t be drowning in engine noise – just relaxing in a cocoon of quiet.

An Interior that Spoils Every Sense

The interior is as much a masterpiece as the exterior. It’s got two high-def screens: a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel and an 11.9-inch central display. And here’s the kicker – that center display tilts to fight glare when the top’s down. Whether you’re navigating or streaming your favorite tunes, you’ll be free from the squint-and-squirm routine, thanks to a thoughtfully designed cabin that keeps your focus on what matters (read: the open road).

Ambient lighting? Of course. Dynamic ambient lighting sweeps across the cabin, wrapping around passengers like a well-tailored scarf. Add to this the Burmester® 3D surround sound system, with speakers in the headrests for an immersive experience – Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio mean you’ll be hearing your favorite music as if it’s being performed live just for you. Mercedes has practically created a mobile concert hall that brings the best seats right to your headrest.

Space and Luxury, Generously Served

Mercedes-Benz didn’t skimp on space with this one. As the largest convertible in its class, it comfortably seats four adults with room to stretch out and savor the journey. Rear passengers even get an extra 72 millimeters of knee room, so everyone can unwind without the dreaded knee-to-seat dance. And the boot? Surprisingly practical, with a capacity of 385 liters (a solid 295 liters with the top down) and an extendable storage space via 60:40 folding seats.

With KEYLESS-GO, you don’t even need to touch your keys. Just wave your foot, and the boot swings open for you – no more fumbling while juggling bags and a coffee.

A Digital Assistant at Your Service

The CLE Cabriolet’s infotainment system, MBUX, has graduated to AI status. It’s like having a personal assistant who knows what you want before you do. This third-gen MBUX system allows you to create customized routines, from “Cold Days” (activates seat heating) to “Date Night” (romantic tunes and pink lighting). It’s like your car knows your mood – you’re one Bluetooth sync away from a luxury spa on wheels.

With access to streaming apps, internet radio, and more, your entertainment options are endless. Just log in via the Mercedes me Store, and you’ll be cruising with everything from classical to hip-hop ready to stream.

Built to Move (and to Move You)

The CLE Cabriolet isn’t just about the glam; it packs serious power under the hood. Engine options include the CLE 200 and CLE 300 4MATIC, both mild hybrids for an extra boost of efficiency. With an integrated starter-generator, these engines are supported by a 48-volt system that not only makes your drive smoother but also gives a satisfying kick when you hit the pedal. The CLE 300 4MATIC does 0-100 km/h in just 6.6 seconds, perfect for that “accidental” moment of showing off at the lights.

Suspension options range from comfy to sporty, depending on your mood. With the DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL suspension, you can switch between silky smooth cruising and track-ready handling at the push of a button. Want more grip? Go for the 4MATIC all-wheel drive, giving you the agility of a mountain goat on winding roads.

Prices That (Almost) Let You Dream in Reality

Starting at R1,515,350 for the CLE 200 and R1,573,651 for the CLE 300 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz has made sure that dreams don’t come cheap but at least come with a 5-year/100,000 km Service and Maintenance Plan. This isn’t just a purchase; it’s a lifestyle choice – and one that promises a steady supply of envious glances wherever you go.

With every detail so meticulously crafted, the CLE Cabriolet isn’t just a car – it’s an experience. Whether you’re drawn in by the ambient lighting, the high-performance audio, or simply the thrill of open-air drives, this cabriolet promises a driving experience that’s nothing short of desire unfolded.

Model Range for Market Launch

• CLE 200

  • Capacity: 1,999 cm³

  • Nominal performance: 150 kW at 5,800 rpm

  • Additional power EG boost: 17 kW

  • Rated torque: 320 Nm at 1,600-4,000 rpm

  • Additional torque EQ boost: 205 Nm

  • Combined fuel consumption (WLTP): 7.4-6.7 l/100 km

  • Combined CO₂ emissions (WLTP): 162-145 g/km

  • Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 7.9 seconds

  • Top speed: 240 km/h

• CLE 300 4MATIC

  • Capacity: 1,999 cm³

  • Nominal performance: 190 kW at 5,800 rpm

  • Additional power EG boost: 17 kW

  • Rated torque: 400 Nm at 2,000-3,200 rpm

  • Additional torque EQ boost: 205 Nm

  • Combined fuel consumption (WLTP): 7.7-7.3 l/100 km

  • Combined CO₂ emissions (WLTP): 173-159 g/km

  • Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 6.6 seconds

  • Top speed: 250 km/h