Review By Veeno Dewan,
The brand-new Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 is a luxury class offering arriving as either a sleek two-door coupe or a gorgeous-looking cabriolet. Fitting in between the Mercedes-Benz C and E-Class ranges, the CLE looks stunning, with dynamic body lines, a thrusting “shark nose” hood, and a wide, muscular yet somehow lithe and graceful demeanor.
The as-tested CLE 300 Cabriolet, equipped with a 2-litre, four-cylinder engine, incorporates a 48-volt mild hybrid system. A nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive are standard. The turbocharged engine has 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The 48-volt electric motor provides an additional 23 hp when full power is required. The Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4Matic Coupe is base-priced at $61,900. Additionally, options delivery, PDE, and various taxes and fees apply.
Our tester arrived with several options, including the Pinnacle trim with a Digital light projection package, parking package, augmented reality navigation, a 360° camera, and a head-up display. Also fitted were the AMG Line multifunction sports steering wheel, AMG exterior and styling package, sports suspension, and Artico dashboard. Climate control. And Ventilated Comfort front seats. A Burmester surround sound system. Active Distance Assist, Distronic, and a dash camera were also part of the package. The total, inclusive Price for our nicely loaded test car was still a reasonable $77,105. Freight is up to $4,835.
In the CLE 300’s cabin, you will find the usual high-standard Mercedes-Benz ambiance, a superb quality premium-filled cockpit with the best materials, fit, and finish. Artico faux leather is the standard upholstery for the seats. At the same time, optional Nappa leather is also available for an even more luxurious touch. Otherwise, it is a stellar-looking cabin with metal trim, brushed steel detailing, and high-quality fittings. Cool ambient lighting with a multitude of colors can be selected to set off the interior.
The digital dash features a 12.3-inch configurable instrument screen and an 11.9-inch central touchscreen. A new Mercedes MB currently powers the latest version of Mercedes’ excellent voice-controlled MBUX infotainment system. An OS operating system that can handle a wide range of apps, as well as phone connectivity. The cozy sports bucket seats offer a great combination of lateral support and comfort. The rear seats are spacious enough, with ample legroom and shoulder room for a pair of adults, but headroom is somewhat compromised.
On the road, with 278 horsepower and 295 lb-ft, the C-300 performs well enough for all situations. The electric boost from the 48-volt mild-hybrid motor helps boost acceleration when needed. It’s not an AMG, but the CLE certainly has smooth acceleration and urge when pushed.
The transmission shifts seamlessly, with gear ratios that are well-matched to the engine’s powerband. It maintains a lower gear, and the selectable Sport mode offers some entertainment, sharpening up reflexes, and making the car responsive on sharp corners. The Cabrio’s standard suspension is an adaptive setup, with the optional E-Active Body Control that acts more quickly and firmly for more challenging sports driving. When selecting Sport mode. The other modes include Comfort, Individual, and Snow. The CLE is also agile, and the dynamic adjustable suspension (optional), combined with tractable, on-point steering, provides good feedback. Mercedes claims the CLE 300 will accelerate from zero to 100 kilometers per hour in 6.3 seconds. Fuel economy is rated at 8.5 km/L (city). 5.6 Highway, 7.2 combined.
In terms of safety, the CLE class comes standard with automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a driver-attention monitor. The standard features include forward collision warning and automated emergency braking, as well as lane departure warning and lane keeping assist. Optional driver Assistance aids include a Driver Assistance package with features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and more.
To sum up, the new CLE 300 Coupe does not compromise–the quality, interior, and features are up to the usual standard expected of Mercedes-Benz. The CLE’s convertible option is an excellent choice if you like open-top motoring at a premium price. However, the Coupe offers a larger trunk in the rear. Whichever version you choose, you will not be disappointed. It looks beautiful, drives amazingly, and will provide years of pleasure behind the wheel.
2025 Mercedes–Benz CLE300 Coupe. The base price is $61,000 plus freight, PDI, and taxes. Price as tested: $77,105.
More info at www.mercedesbenz.ca
