The new 2023 Mercedes CLE will kick out the C-Class and E-Class coupes and cabriolets

The Mercedes CLE is a brand new name coming to the German brand’s lineup, so will the CLE inherit the CLE?

Here’s our first look at a new Mercedes-Benz next-generation mid-size convertible, but it’s not a C-Class. It’s going to be an all-new model designed to be an all-rounder for all markets, including the luxury compact mid-size convertible, and restyled for a new badge: It’s the Mercedes CLE badge, and that plaque will still bear the German branding for a while, but Mercedes recently renewed its branding.

Brand executives have spoken in the past of the need to reduce the complexity of the Mercedes portfolio, reaching nearly 50 vehicles in 2020, only due to expansion further, with the introduction of electric models bearing the EQ badge.

Also earlier in the year, Marcus Schaefer, head of research and development at Mercedes, referred to the brand’s convertible offerings defined as “high density”, with the SLC, C-Class Cabriolet and E-Class Cabriolet all competing, which were left out. recently gained space in the market.

However, Schafer admitted that from a brand perspective, the coupe and cabriolet models matter; For a luxury car company like Mercedes , so being in this space makes an important mark.

“We want to focus on these models,” he explained. “They have their place and their purpose. That is why we will design the vehicle that is just right in this segment. There is more to offer besides the coupe, the Cabriolet is in this mid-range segment, but it will take some time before we talk about it.”

Ahead of the arrival of the new Mercedes CLE in 2023, the brand will reinvent the full-size SL as a sportier offering rather than a coupe, using a new platform developed by AMG.

Similar treatment is arranged for CLE. Spied on the camera and previewed in our exclusive photos, the Mercedes CLE will be a completely new model, redefining the ever crowded and less profitable market space and giving it a distinctive Mercedes look. I remind you of a similar work done by BMW with its latest 4 Series model, which is now far from its 3 Series saloon sibling in appearance.

Technical details are still unknown at this point, and the reveal of the CLE is a long way off as there is still a new SL coming first, later in 2021. However, the Mercedes CLE is likely to be based on the same MRA-2 platform as the Class The new C-Class and the new S-Class, instead of the new AMG-designed architecture in the SL . Which means that the flexibility of the MRA-2 platform could make Mercedes consider a four-cylinder engine and the lightness of the platform could make that possible, attracting a potential CLE buyer.

Which is confirmed by the fact that the latest C-class is a four-cylinder engine only, a strategy previously announced by Mercedes, and at the same pace will be many CLE group cars as well. The next C 63 is expected to take a new high-performance four-cylinder hybrid powertrain derived from the M139’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine used in the A 45’s superior rooftop. The larger S-Class, also on the MRA-2 platform, could offer a 3.0-liter straight-six turbocharged engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance, if Mercedes thinks a six-cylinder engine will be necessary.

While the vehicle spied here is a four-seat convertible, there is also expected to be a hardtop coupe version of the CLE, although it is likely that the model range will only be limited to two seats, with no plans for a new car. The mid-size four-door coupe stands the new model between the CLA and the CLS.

It seems that Mercedes is seeking in future plans to reduce the number of models it issues, which may cause customers to be confused in choosing which models to choose, although unlike Mercedes, I see that the multiplicity of options gives it more customers, greater value and greater weight in the global market.

around $60,000Pricing and Which One to BuyEither way, we expect to see a price premium for the new convertible, with pricing starting around $60,000.