The much-anticipated 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe has been revealed after numerous spy photos surfaced in the past months. Set to replace both the C-Class Coupe and E-Class Coupe, this stunning two-door hardtop is set to hit the market early next year.
One of the most striking aspects of the 2024 CLE Coupe is its size. Although it shares the same 112.8-inch wheelbase as the C-Class, it surpasses its predecessors in length, measuring 4.0 inches longer for a total length of 191.0 inches. Compared to the outgoing C-Class Coupe, the CLE is 6.5 inches longer, and it even edges out the E-Class Coupe by six-tenths of an inch.
Impressively, the two-door model falls just 1.1 inches short of the long-wheelbase C-Class designed specifically for the Chinese market.
In terms of powertrain options, the CLE Coupe differentiates itself from the new C-Class, which exclusively features a four-cylinder engine range. Instead, the CLE offers a six-cylinder powertrain. The CLE 450 4Matic boasts a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine, complemented by an integrated starter generator. This configuration delivers an impressive peak output of 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain is coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, which has been redesigned to reduce weight compared to the corresponding component in the C-Class Coupe.
For the United States market, a base four-cylinder model, the CLE 300 4Matic, is available. It is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo engine, also featuring mild hybrid technology. This variant produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with the same nine-speed automatic transmission and the renowned 4Matic system. While specific performance details for the US versions are yet to be disclosed, the top speed for both models is electronically limited to 130 miles per hour.
Compared to the regular C-Class Sedan, the new CLE Coupe sits lower to the ground by six-tenths of an inch. The suspension setup comprises four links per wheel at the front and a multi-link construction at the rear axle. In addition to the standard suspension, Mercedes offers a sportier option. It comes standard on the six-cylinder model and can be added as an option with the AMG package for the four-cylinder model. This sportier suspension includes stiffer springs and provides a more direct steering feel.
In terms of design, the 2024 CLE Coupe shares the overall design language of the C-Class but features distinctive elements. Notable design cues include a more strongly inclined A-pillar, a shorter front overhang, a slightly longer rear overhang, and larger wheel arches. These elements combine to give the two-door hardtop a unique and visually appealing appearance.
Inside the CLE Coupe, the interior closely resembles the cabin of the C-Class. A prominent 12.3-inch free-standing display adorns the center console, accompanied by an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster. The front seats showcase a distinct design exclusive to the CLE, featuring two speakers integrated into each headrest as part of the standard Burmester premium audio system. A notable innovation in Mercedes models is the use of an elegant Nappa loop located at the upper edge of the backrest to unlock the seats, providing convenient access to the rear seats.
While pricing details are currently unavailable, Mercedes has announced that the 2024 CLE Coupe will arrive at US dealerships early next year. The CLE Cabriolet, the convertible version of the CLE Coupe, will be introduced at a later date. Additionally, Mercedes is currently developing AMG-branded versions of both the coupe and the convertible, catering to performance enthusiasts.
