Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet: Open-top chic
You probably know by now that German carmaker Mercedes-Benz restructured its E-Class and C-Class ranges, and in the process, the coupe variants of the aforementioned models were retired.
The Stuttgart-based automaker announced the CLE coupe as the replacement for the C-Class and E-Class coupes to take on the Audi A5 Coupe and the BMW 4 Series.
Coupes aside, the brand has now unveiled the cabriolet version of the CLE, which comes with a standard-fit fabric soft top. Available in black, red, or grey, the soft top can be opened and closed within 20 seconds at speeds of up to 60km/h.
The new CLE Cabriolet comes with what Mercedes calls an Aircap electric wind deflector and an Airscarf headroom heating system as standard for an enhanced open-top driving experience.
The CLE Cabriolet is 4,850mm long, 1,861mm wide, and 1,424mm tall. Compared to its direct competitors, the CLE cabriolet is fairly larger by a margin.
When it comes to the boot space, it features 385 litres (295 litres with the top down), and thankfully, the rear 60:40 split seats can be folded to accommodate elongated objects.
As it stands right now, the CLE Cabriolet will be offered in three variants: CLE220d, CLE200, and CLE200 4Matic.
In terms of power, the CLE220d makes use of a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine that pumps out 145kW and 440Nm. The CLE200, on the other hand, employs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 150kW and 320Nm, either sent to the rear axle or to all four wheels via an advanced 9-speed automatic transmission.
If you are apprehensive about the full potential of AMG, it may be of interest to note that unverified reports indicate that the brand is currently undergoing a comprehensive evaluation for the international market, with the possibility of a V8.
Mercedes-Benz has stated that the CLE Cabriolet will be available for purchase in Europe starting in April. However, the local market may have to wait until the coupe variants arrive, most likely before the end of the year or early next year.
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