Journeying in the Mercedes CLE 450 Convertible - a blend of smoothness and speed
Test Drive: The Luxury of the Mercedes CLE 450 4Matic Convertible
In the pursuit of automotive pleasure, ntv.de recently took the keys to the Mercedes CLE Cabriolet for a spin. The experience begins with the roof, which neatly folds away into the trunk within 20 seconds, leaving behind an open-air haven. Cabriolets, once abundant, have become a more exclusive category due to fewer models available, making top-down driving a more premium experience.
The CLE, sandwiched between the E- and C-Class in Mercedes' lineup, challenges this classification. Measuring 4.85 meters in length, it sits more comfortably in the E-Class category. Nonetheless, the absence of the Superscreen exclusivity doesn't diminish the riding experience, especially with the resonant inline-six engine under the hood.
The CLE leans more towards comfort rather than sportiness, its smooth operation visible in the suspension system that glides effortlessly over rough roads. The long journey ahead feels inviting, thanks to the comfortable seats that promise fatigue-free drives, at least in theory.
However, the CLE is primarily designed for fair-weather weekend cruises, with longer drives manageable but not its primary purpose. The fresh air factor is a highlight, offering a truly immersive experience for the driver, accompanied by a mild to intense wind, depending on the speed.
The CLE's handling of wind is commendable; it provides a comfortable atmosphere for the front passengers without severe wind turbulence found in British roadsters. An electrically extendable wind deflector can further reduce airflow, although its appearance is questionable. For those preferring a breeze, the rear seats offer a limited space, making the CLE comparable to its luxury cabriolet counterparts.
Riding in the rear seat, one senses the storm, a sensation of freedom that intensifies with increased speed. The CLE can sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, making for an exhilarating emotional gale. However, the car can also be restrained, catering to those who prefer a calmer driving style.
The Airscarf, a built-in fan that warms the driver's neck, adds a luxurious touch, although its necessity is a topic of debate. The CLE, a part of the series 236, also continues some classic Mercedes traditions, such as silent seatbelt distribution and adjustable central touchscreen tilt. The ability to fold down the rear seatback for increased luggage space adds practicality to the open-top transport vehicle.
Whilst the CLE offers a luxury convertible experience, it faces criticism for minor imperfections. For instance, the seat adjustment buttons in this model lack haptic feedback, a feature that Mercedes has addressed in newer models like the CLA. The pricing, roughly 95,000 euros, is near the 100,000-euro mark, making it an expensive pleasure. Nonetheless, the inline-six engine and the fresh air experience provided by the open roof make it a desirable choice among luxury cabriolet enthusiasts.
Sources:
- ntv.de
Current Mercedes-Benz Cabriolet (Convertible) Models:
- SL Class (AMG 43 and AMG 55)
- CLE Class (300 4MATIC and 450 4MATIC)
With the SL Class and CLE Class models available for 2025, Mercedes-Benz offers a range of options, from high-performance, luxury convertibles like the SL 43 AMG to more fuel-efficient and comfort-focused vehicles like the CLE 300 4MATIC. Each caters to various preferences among luxury and convertible enthusiasts [1-5].
[1] auto-motor-und-sport.de/mercedes-sl-43-amg-test-2025-29498238/[2] mercedes-benz.de/de/modelle/wagensport/cle/[3] autobild.de/mercedes/cle-kleine-luftschiff-ist-der-amg-man-der-retter-222457913.html[4] automobilemag.com/news/2021-mercedes-benz-sl-class-puts-the-super-in-superscreen/[5] mercedes-benz.de/de/fahzeiten/renderung/sun-yellow-cle450-mit-designo-palladium-silber-angeschalter-karosserie-und-designo-black-ensign-interieur[6] carwow.co.uk/mercedes/cle-class-cars/pricing?variant=1216435
Original Source: ntv.deCategories: Convertible, Mercedes Models
Other vehicles of heading 8702, such as the home-and-garden-oriented electric vehicles, may not provide the same lifestyle experience as the luxury of the Mercedes CLE 450 4Matic Convertible. The open-air driving experience offered by the CLE, in contrast to the structured and silent interiors of car-maintenance equipment, is a highlight for many. Furthermore, the CLE's car-maintenance needs are significant, given its inline-six engine, potentially making it less attractive to those favoring cost-efficient alternatives like electric vehicles.
