Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet: Open-Air Luxury Redefined
The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet embodies the essence of freedom, elegance, and performance in one breathtaking package. As the open-top sibling of the CLE Coupé, this model brings together the sophistication of Mercedes-Benz design with the pure joy of open-air driving. It represents a new era for the brand’s convertible lineup — blending advanced technology, refined craftsmanship, and exhilarating performance to create an unforgettable driving experience.
With its seamless combination of style, innovation, and power, the CLE Cabriolet redefines what it means to drive a luxury convertible. Whether you’re gliding along a coastal highway or cruising through the city at sunset, every journey becomes a celebration of freedom and sophistication.
Design: Elegance in Motion
The CLE Cabriolet is a stunning showcase of Mercedes-Benz’s modern design philosophy — sensual purity combined with athletic proportions. Every curve, line, and surface has been sculpted to capture both beauty and aerodynamics.
At first glance, the CLE Cabriolet impresses with its elongated hood, short overhangs, and flowing silhouette, giving it a dynamic yet graceful stance. The wide grille, crowned by the iconic Mercedes-Benz star, establishes a bold presence, while the sleek DIGITAL LIGHT headlights add a touch of futuristic sophistication.
The power-folding fabric soft top perfectly complements the car’s aesthetic. Available in several color options — including black, red, and beige — the soft top folds down in just 20 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h. When closed, it provides excellent insulation against wind and noise, creating an environment of pure comfort.
At the rear, the slim LED taillights and sculpted trunk lid emphasize width and stability, while chrome details and dual exhaust outlets convey a sense of refined power.
Whether the top is up or down, the CLE Cabriolet is an undeniable head-turner — a masterpiece of open-air design that captures attention wherever it goes.
Interior: Crafted for Comfort and Style
Step inside the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet, and you’re welcomed by an interior that blends craftsmanship, technology, and comfort in perfect harmony. The cabin reflects the same design DNA as the CLE Coupé, yet it’s tailored to enhance the open-top driving experience.
The dashboard features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen that controls the latest MBUX infotainment system. The system offers intuitive voice and touch controls, customizable displays, and seamless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
High-quality materials, such as Nappa leather, open-pore wood, and brushed aluminum, surround you in an atmosphere of luxury. Every stitch and contour is designed to enhance comfort, even on long drives. The seats are sculpted to provide excellent support, with available heating, ventilation, and AIRSCARF® neck-level heating, which gently blows warm air around the neck — perfect for cooler evenings.
Mercedes has also included the AIRCAP® system, which reduces wind turbulence and noise by extending a wind deflector from the top of the windshield and a mesh screen behind the rear seats. This ensures that passengers can enjoy top-down motoring in serene comfort.
Ambient lighting with 64 color options, a Burmester® 3D surround sound system, and advanced climate control all contribute to an immersive and refined cabin experience. Whether the roof is open or closed, the CLE Cabriolet offers the perfect environment for luxury travel.
Performance: Power Meets Precision
The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet isn’t just about style and luxury — it’s a performance machine at its core. Designed on the same modular platform as the CLE Coupé, it offers powerful engine options and a dynamic driving experience.
The engine lineup features mild-hybrid powertrains equipped with a 48-volt electrical system and an integrated starter-generator for improved efficiency and smoother performance.
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The CLE 200 Cabriolet comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine delivering around 201 horsepower.
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The CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet offers a more robust 255 horsepower, combined with all-wheel drive for superior traction.
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The top-of-the-line CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet features a 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing approximately 375 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, allowing a 0–100 km/h sprint in just 4.7 seconds.
All variants are paired with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive gear shifts.
The mild-hybrid system enhances acceleration by delivering instant torque and ensures a quieter, more efficient drive during cruising. Combined with the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, the CLE Cabriolet handles corners with confidence and stability while maintaining the refined smoothness expected from Mercedes-Benz.
Driving Dynamics: The Joy of Open-Air Motion
The CLE Cabriolet delivers a driving experience that’s both exhilarating and composed. Engineers at Mercedes-Benz have tuned the chassis to deliver sporty agility while maintaining long-distance comfort — a hallmark of the brand’s grand touring heritage.
The DYNAMIC SELECT system lets drivers choose between Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual modes, adjusting throttle response, steering, and suspension settings to match their preferences.
An optional AIRMATIC air suspension system further enhances ride quality by automatically adjusting damping for a smooth, controlled ride, regardless of road conditions.
The car’s low center of gravity and lightweight design contribute to exceptional cornering stability. Meanwhile, advanced braking systems and precise steering ensure confident handling, whether you’re navigating winding mountain roads or cruising along a coastal highway.
Driving the CLE Cabriolet with the top down is an immersive experience — the gentle hum of the engine, the scent of fresh air, and the panoramic view combine to make every drive an adventure.
Technology: Smart and Connected
As expected from Mercedes-Benz, the CLE Cabriolet is brimming with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance convenience, safety, and entertainment.
At its heart lies the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, which uses artificial intelligence to learn your preferences and habits. Simply say, “Hey Mercedes,” and you can control navigation, climate, media, or even ambient lighting with your voice.
The augmented reality navigation overlays turn-by-turn directions on a live camera feed, making it easier to follow routes in unfamiliar areas. Wireless smartphone charging, advanced connectivity options, and over-the-air software updates ensure that your CLE Cabriolet is always up-to-date.
The digital cockpit allows drivers to customize displays with navigation, performance data, or classic instrument dials. The graphics are sharp, fluid, and intuitive — blending luxury and functionality seamlessly.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Confidence in Every Drive
The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet is equipped with an array of advanced safety features that protect occupants and enhance driver confidence.
Standard and available systems include:
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Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC (adaptive cruise control)
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Active Steering Assist
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Blind Spot Monitoring
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Active Lane Keeping Assist
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Traffic Sign Recognition
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PRE-SAFE® system that anticipates collisions and prepares the vehicle for impact
These systems work together to ensure that every journey is not just luxurious but also exceptionally safe.
The CLE Cabriolet’s body structure has been reinforced to compensate for the loss of a fixed roof, ensuring rigidity and crash protection without compromising performance or comfort.
Comfort and Practicality: Everyday Elegance
While the CLE Cabriolet is a luxury convertible, it remains impressively practical. The soft-top roof design allows for a spacious trunk, easily accommodating weekend luggage or shopping bags. When the roof is up, trunk space increases further.
The rear seats provide more legroom than previous C-Class and E-Class convertibles, making the CLE Cabriolet more versatile for everyday use. The split-folding rear seats also add flexibility for carrying longer items.
Wind insulation and aerodynamic optimization ensure that even at highway speeds, conversations remain easy and the cabin stays quiet.
Whether it’s a daily commute or a weekend escape, the CLE Cabriolet offers unmatched versatility for those who crave both performance and comfort.
AMG Variant: The Ultimate Open-Top Thrill
For those seeking even more excitement, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Cabriolet takes open-air performance to another level.
Powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing around 430 horsepower, paired with AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, this version offers blistering acceleration and razor-sharp handling.
Unique AMG styling elements — from the Panamericana grille to aerodynamic body kits and exclusive alloy wheels — distinguish it from the standard model. Inside, AMG-specific seats, steering wheel, and displays enhance the sports-oriented atmosphere.
It’s not just a convertible; it’s a performance machine built for those who want power with prestige.
Sustainability and Innovation
The CLE Cabriolet embodies Mercedes-Benz’s vision for sustainable mobility. With its mild-hybrid powertrains, the car achieves reduced emissions without sacrificing performance.
Eco-friendly materials are used throughout the cabin, including recycled plastics and sustainable wood veneers, reflecting the brand’s Ambition 2039 initiative toward carbon-neutral manufacturing.
This makes the CLE Cabriolet not just a symbol of luxury — but also a statement of responsibility and progress.
Conclusion: The Art of Open-Air Perfection
The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet represents the perfect fusion of beauty, intelligence, and emotion. It combines the elegance of a grand tourer with the thrill of a convertible, offering drivers the freedom to experience the world without compromise.
With its powerful engines, state-of-the-art technology, luxurious interior, and unmistakable design, the CLE Cabriolet sets a new benchmark for open-top driving in the luxury segment. It’s not just a car; it’s a lifestyle — a declaration of individuality and sophistication.
Whether cruising along scenic roads or gliding through city streets, the CLE Cabriolet delivers an experience that engages every sense — the open sky above, the hum of the engine, and the craftsmanship that defines Mercedes-Benz excellence.
For those who seek the pinnacle of open-air luxury, the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet is more than transportation — it’s pure inspiration.