Mercedes-Benz has launched an open-top version of its CLE four-seater coupé in SA.
The hard top two-door was introduced in June as a replacement for the two-doored C-Class and E-Class models, and the new CLE Cabriolet arrives at a price premium with an electrically-operated fabric roof available in black, red or grey.
Acoustic lining in the multilayer soft top reduces wind noise and the roof takes 20 seconds to open or close at driving speeds of up to 60km/h. A powered roller divider separates the folded soft top from the rest of the luggage compartment.
An Aircap system makes open-air driving in cooler temperatures more pleasant using a wind deflector on the windscreen that extends at the touch of a button to direct airflow over occupants’ heads. It is complemented by an automatic wind deflector behind the rear head rests that reduces air turbulence. In addition, an Airscarf system produces warm airflow around the necks of front-seat occupants, ensuring that driving the CLE Cabriolet isn’t restricted to summery weather.
Inside the cabin is a digital instrument display and an 11.9-inch infotainment screen that can be electrically tilted to prevent glare when the roof is down.
The third generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system has automated convenience functions. For instance customers are able to use templates for Cold days (where the seat heating switches on at a certain outside temperature) or Date night (romantic music plays via Bluetooth audio and the ambient lighting turns pink). Users can create personalised routines by linking several functions and conditions.
An optional feature in the new CLE Cabriolet is dynamic ambient lighting, which has bands of light sweeping from the cockpit over the doors and rear side panels to behind the rear seats. This stylish wraparound feel is enhanced by chrome trim that runs around the passenger compartment. Black synthetic nappa leather covers the dashboard, beltlines and roof stowage lid.
The standard Avantgarde trim comes with Artico synthetic black leather. Optionally available are leather seats with a special coating that are claimed to remain up to 12°C cooler in direct sunlight. The sun-reflecting leather is available in a choice of black and several dual-tone colours.
The front sports seats are developed specially for the CLE have an integral sports seat design. The car is significantly more spacious than the outgoing C-Class Cabriolet and its 4,850mm length can take four adults. The boot has hands-free access and offers a generous 385l (295l with the top down), with folding rear backrests to expand loading space.
The CLE Cabriolet rides on suspension which has been lowered by 15mm compared to the C-Class sedan, and is optionally available with sports suspension that has an amplitude-selective damping system, or Dynamic Boy Control with adaptive damping.
The car is available with a choice of two mild-hybrid 2.0l petrol engines with integrated starter-generators and 48-volt electrical systems.
The CLE 200 has outputs of 150kW and 320Nm, with an additional 17kW and 205Nm available with the aid of electrical boost. With rear-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission, the CLE 200 claims a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 7.9 seconds, a 240km/h top speed, and fuel consumption of 6.7l/100km.
The range-topping CLE 300 4Matic bumps up outputs to 190kW and 400Nm, also electrically boosted by 17kW and 205Nm. The all-wheel drive car covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.6 seconds, runs to 250km/h and claims 7.3l / 100km on the urban/freeway cycle.
I drove the new CLE Cabriolet at the media launch in Cape Town. The chassis has been braced to compensate for the lost rigidity of a roof and the car felt impressively solid, with no scuttle shake even on bumpy roads. The open-topped Mercedes has a comfortable ride quality and handles very cleanly, taking on the Cape’s mountain passes with confidence-inspiring poise.
It’s a refined vehicle with slick gearshifts and a high-quality feel to the interior trimmings. Interior room is decent and four adults have reasonable legroom, though the upright rear seat backrests will limit long-distance comfort. The Aircap system is very effective at creating a less hair-ruffling experience in the cabin.
The CLE 200 priced at R1,515,350 felt a little tame in terms of straightline performance, however. The CLE 300 for R1,573,651 felt distinctly more lively, and with the added benefit of all-wheel drive it seems the better buy in the range at the relatively modest price premium.
Prices:
CLE 200 — R1,515,350
CLE 300 4Matic — R1,573,651
Includes a Five-year/100,000km warranty and maintenance plan
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.