10 Things to Know About the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Series

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE series, encompassing the CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe, CLE Cabriolet, and the high-performance Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe, marks a notable expansion in Mercedes-Benz's luxury vehicle range. This lineup introduces a harmonious blend of the past C-Class Coupe's agility and previous E-Class Coupe's elegance, catering to a diverse spectrum of luxury car enthusiasts in Brampton. In this detailed overview, we explore the defining characteristics and specifications of this latest Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

1. Launch of a Versatile Luxury Series 

The CLE series will launch with the CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe, an embodiment of Mercedes-Benz's commitment to blending luxury with performance. Set to arrive at Mercedes-Benz Brampton in early 2024, this model harmoniously merges the best attributes of previous Mercedes-Benz coupes like the C-Class and E-Class. Following the CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe, the lineup will introduce the CLE Cabriolet, appealing to those who favor the exhilaration of convertible driving. Each of these models is designed to offer a distinct driving experience, maintaining the series' focus on sophistication and dynamism. Simultaneously, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe, expected in the second half of 2024, redefines the performance coupe segment. It combines the agility and sportiness characteristic of traditional AMG coupes with more versatility and enhanced luxury. 

2. Iconic Design and Athletic Appearance 

The CLE series features a striking design characterized by a long wheelbase, pronounced shoulders, and large wheel arches, seamlessly blending sporty and elegant proportions. This design aligns with the Mercedes-Benz philosophy of Sensual Purity, resulting in a dynamic and emotionally appealing aesthetic from every perspective. The series' exterior design incorporates a well-positioned and strongly inclined A-pillar, a short front overhang, and a slightly longer rear overhang, contributing to its athletic yet elegant appearance.

In the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe, the design takes a more aggressive turn. It features a "shark nose" front section with a low-slung hood and flat LED headlights, alongside a newly designed, three-dimensional radiator grille that emphasizes its sporty demeanor. The AMG-specific elements, such as the contoured power domes on the hood and the distinct character line running from the headlights to the exterior mirrors, accentuate its performance-focused nature.

3. Engine Performance and Capabilities

The 2024 CLE series offers a range of engines tailored to various driving preferences. The CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, complemented by a mild-hybrid system with a 48-volt electrical setup. This combination optimizes fuel efficiency while providing sufficient power for a smooth, responsive driving experience. The engine is designed to deliver smooth acceleration while a range of powertrain enhancements, multiple DYNAMIC drive modes and a modern suspension layout ensure optimal handling.

In contrast, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe steps up the performance with an AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. This engine boasts turbocharging via an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor, producing an impressive 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque, which can be momentarily increased to 443 lb-ft with overboost. The inclusion of a 48-volt integrated starter generator (ISG) provides additional support at lower engine speeds, enhancing the car's responsiveness and efficiency. This power is managed by an AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9G transmission, paired with AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive, ensuring optimal power distribution and traction in various driving conditions.

4. Advanced Interior Design and Comfort

The CLE series raises the bar for interior luxury and comfort. In the CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe and the CLE Cabriolet, passengers are greeted with a high-end cabin featuring a free-standing large digital driver display combined with a central display laid out in a user-friendly portrait format. Enhanced 64-color ambient lighting creates an inviting atmosphere, extending from the center console to the outer air vents. This attention to detail is evident in the sophisticated design of the door panels, where a strip of light accentuates the contours of the armrest and beltline, extending to the rear cabin. The front seats, developed exclusively for the CLE, offer an integral sport design, providing both comfort and support during dynamic driving.

The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe infuses the cabin with unique AMG-specific elements. The sporty integral seats offer exceptional lateral support, essential for dynamic driving, and are available in various upholstery options, including standard MB-Tex/microfiber with red contrast stitching and optional Nappa leather. The AMG Performance Seat Package adds more pronounced bolsters and unique design accents, enhancing the sporty feel of the interior. The AMG Performance steering wheel, equipped with AMG DRIVE UNIT buttons, allows for intuitive control of dynamic driving functions and drive programs, adding to the car's interactive driving experience. The driver display offers customizable options, including the AMG-exclusive "Supersport" style, which displays a central round tachometer and additional driver-focused information, emphasizing the car's dynamic character.

The CLE Coupe has been designed to be as functional as it is luxurious. Offering ample cargo space with 420 litres, the CLE is also capable of accommodating rear seat passengers on a regular basis thanks to optimized rear legroom. 

5. Cutting-Edge MBUX Infotainment System

The 2024 CLE series is equipped with the latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, known for its highly interactive and personalized interface. This advanced system features a new electronics architecture that enhances user interaction, offering seamless integration with third-party apps and high levels of customization. Across the lineup, including the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe, the MBUX system includes a free-standing 12.3-inch digital driver display and an 11.9-inch central display. In the AMG variant, the system adds unique AMG-specific functions and displays, enhancing the performance-focused driving experience.

6. Electrified Driving Experience with Mild Hybrid Technology

The CLE series showcases Mercedes-Benz's advanced engine engineering with its mild-hybrid powertrains. The CLE 300 4MATIC, as mentioned previously, features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine combined with a 48-volt electrical system, that delivers 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid system can deliver an extra 148 pound-feet of torque when boost is engaged, ensuring immediate accelerations with no compromise on efficiency. In the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe, this concept is further advanced with the inclusion of an AMG-enhanced engine and an integrated starter generator (ISG), providing additional power and improved efficiency. The exhaust gas turbocharger can provide an extra 30 pound-feet of torque through 22 psi of added pressure, providing 443 pound-feet for up to 12 seconds. This allows the new AMG CLE to reach 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds.  Moreover, the electric motor housed within the powertrain can add up to 23 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque as needed to ensure immediate reactions to driver inputs in a variety of situations. 

7. Comprehensive Safety Features

Safety in the 2024 CLE series is top-notch, with an array of advanced driver assistance systems. Standard features such as ATTENTION ASSIST and Active Brake Assist are included across all models, ensuring a high level of protection and driver support. Additionally, the Parking Package with a reversing camera adds an extra layer of convenience and safety. The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe builds on these features with additional systems designed to accommodate its increased performance capabilities, offering a safe yet exhilarating driving experience.

8. Athletic and Elegant Exterior Design

The CLE series combines elegance with athleticism in its exterior design. All models, including the CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe and CLE Cabriolet, feature dynamic lines and proportions, such as a "shark nose" front section and flowing rear contours, contributing to a powerful and elegant aesthetic. The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe further accentuates this design language with AMG-specific elements, including a more aggressive front fascia and distinctive LED lighting, creating a visual statement that is both sporty and sophisticated.

9. Customization and Personalization Options

Mercedes-Benz offers extensive customization options in the CLE series, allowing owners to tailor their vehicles to their personal tastes. A wide selection of alloy wheels, ranging from 18 to 20 inches, and various exterior colors, provide numerous possibilities for individualization. The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe offers additional customization packages, including the AMG Performance Studio Package and AMG Night packages, enabling owners to further enhance the vehicle's sporty aesthetics and performance characteristics.

10. Advanced Driver Assistance and Connectivity

The CLE series is not only about luxury and performance but also about advanced connectivity and driver assistance. The inclusion of the latest MBUX system, with its intuitive interface and customizable settings, ensures that drivers stay connected and informed. The series also features a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies, including lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, providing enhanced safety and convenience on the road. The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe, with its additional AMG-specific systems, offers a more connected and responsive driving experience, catering to those who demand the highest levels of technology and performance.

From the comfort-oriented CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe to the exhilarating open-air experience of the CLE Cabriolet, and culminating in the high-performance Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe, the new CLE series caters to a diverse array of preferences and lifestyles while delivering tried and true Mercedes-Benz luxury.