A couple of months ago, we here at MHH International introduced the new Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé (read about it here) and very striking it is too. Well now, with Summer heading our way (over half the world at least) the German prestige car maker have announced a soft-top cabriolet version of the same car with, obviously, certain differences.
On The Outside
Yes, the new Mercedes-Benz CLE cabriolet looks pretty much the same as its hard-top sibling, but the big difference is the roof and the creature comforts that supplement it.
This new model is equipped with an electrically operated fabric acoustic soft top. It has an insulated multi-layer structure that can be raised or lowered in just twenty seconds even when the vehicle is travelling at speeds up to up to 37mph (59kph). When lowered, a powered divider automatically separates the folded soft top from the remaining luggage space.
The key point to note here is that this is not some Summer-weight, linen-suited special, hopeless when the darker months come, no; the CLE Cabriolet can be used all year round thanks to the materials used in the fabric roof. This year-round usability is further enhanced by a special ‘AIRCAP’ electric wind deflector system and that’s not all: Passengers can also count on the ‘AIRSCARF’ heating system, both fitted as standard.
The former consists of two elements; a wind deflector above the windscreen extends at the touch of a button to direct airflow over occupants’ heads, while the automatic wind deflector behind the rear head restraints reduces turbulence. With this system there is no need to reach for a cap or a Hermes scarf; that blown-through-a-hedge look is a thing of the past. Meanwhile the ‘AIRSCARF’ circulates warm air around front seat occupants’ necks, keeping them warm in cold or windy conditions.
On The Inside
Beyond the soft top, the CLE Cabriolet benefits from the same cutting-edge comfort, convenience and safety technologies as the CLE Coupé. For instance, standard equipment on all models includes the latest MBUX infotainment system with a free-standing 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster and 11.9 inch driver-oriented central display, in user-friendly portrait format. In the CLE Cabriolet, the central display can be tilted electrically from fifteen to forty degrees to prevent glare when the soft top is lowered.
A Choice Of AMG-Style Models
AMG Line models feature 18” AMG alloy wheels, automatic climate control, LED High Performance headlamps with Adaptive High beam Assist, a multifunction sport steering wheel in Nappa leather, dynamic 64-colour ambient lighting, wireless device charging, Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, and the Parking Package with a reversing camera.
AMG Line Premium adds 19” AMG alloy wheels, digital light LED headlamps again with Adaptive High beam Assist Plus, MBUX augmented reality for navigation and the Parking Package with a 360° camera.
Moving down the list, AMG Line Premium Plus models introduce 20” AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, the ‘ENERGIZING’ Plus Package (including 'climatised' ( a company word, this) multi-contour massage front seats, seven comfort programmes with air balance and ioniser. A head-up display, and the 17-speaker Burmester 3D Surround Sound system with Dolby ‘Atmos’ and ‘Spatial Audio’ complete this package.
Finally, the Premier Edition models add the Night Package – including 20” AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels in black – a heated steering wheel and Nappa leather upholstery, so there’s plenty to suit individual budgets and requirements.
Remember, if a cabriolet doesn’t suit, there may well be another Mercedes-Benz model to suit requirements. Check in with us here at MHH International to find out about current stock and also our tried and tested export service to Kenya, New Zealand, Ireland, the Caribbean and other global destinations.
Motive Power
The range of power-trains available in the new Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet includes four-cylinder petrol, six-cylinder petrol and four-cylinder diesel engines. All engines are paired with the latest-generation ‘9G-TRONIC PLUS’ nine-speed automatic transmission and 48-volt mild hybrid technology, with a second-generation integrated starter generator (ISG) to provide up to 17 kW/200 Nm of support in the low-speed range.
The 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol engine is available in two output levels: with 204bhp as the CLE 200 and with 258bhp as the CLE 300. The more powerful CLE 450 is equipped with a 3.0 litre straight-six petrol engine with 381bhp, while the CLE 220d is powered by the 2.0 litre four-cylinder diesel engine with 197bhp. Further, the CLE 300 and CLE 450 are equipped with variable ‘4MATIC’ all-wheel drive. All models feature a choice of drive modes and ‘AGILITY CONTROL’ sports suspension. The CLE Cabriolet is a fine car: it looks svelte, it rides and cruises beautifully long distance without a murmur of complaint. It is a comfortable, capable drive. Ask us about a Mercedes-Benz for your next car.
