Published
on 27
Nov 2023
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All rights reserved.
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New
nameplate, same old formula.
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Don’t know why Mercedes
changed the names of its smaller coupes so frequently. It was known as
“CE” coupe in the 1970s and 1980s with W123 and W124 series, then
renamed to CLK in the following W208 and C209, and most recently
C-class Coupe (C204 and C205). Meanwhile, running in parallel to the
latter is the larger E-class Coupe (C207 and C238). As seen, none of
these nameplates lived beyond 2 generations. The inconsistency might
reflect changing market conditions, especially in recent years sales of
4-seater coupes have been declining under the threat of crossovers.
That’s why Stuttgart decides to merge the C-class Coupe and E-class
Coupe into one car, the CLE.
While the K in CLK denotes Kompact (Compact), the E in CLE implies the
link with E-class, at least that is how Mercedes wants you believe.
However, although the CLE is just as large as the outgoing E-class
Coupe, it is considerably smaller than the new E-class sedan. Its
wheelbase is identical to the current C-class, and its interior is a
further proof that it is derived from the smaller Mercedes sedan,
because it shares the same dashboard. The rename to CLE is just a
polite way to terminate the E-class Coupe.
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CLE
is just as large as E-class Coupe, but it is derived from the C-class
underpinnings.
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Building the CLE on the C-class underpinnings is a logical
decision. On the one hand, it is suitably sized to compete with BMW
4-Series Coupe and Audi A5. On the other hand, it can keep costs under
control. Part of this come from the cabin, which might look just as
eye-catching and luxurious as the C-class, but employs some harder
plastics lower down that you won’t find in an E-class. Ditto the lack
of “Superscreen” infotainment interface. The CLE also lacks the larger
sedan’s air suspension, relying on steel springs and adaptive dampers.
Still, the CLE looks upmarket both inside and outside. Its teardrop
shape is beautiful, especially when viewing from behind. Its interior
is more desirable than its rivals. As for usability, it seats 4 average
size adults without much problem, although six-footers will have their
head pressed against the roof. With a wheelbase stretch, it offers 56
mm more rear legroom than the C-class Coupe, although still 43 mm short
of E-class Coupe. Thanks to extra width, more shoulder and elbow room
as well. Meanwhile, luggage space has grown by 60 liters to 420.
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Flashy
interior with more room, especially for rear passengers.
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The engine compartment is where it differs from the C-class. While the
latter is confined to 4-cylinder engines, the CLE can be equipped with
straight-six good for 381 horsepower. Moreover, as United States is its
core market, the coupe skips plug-in hybrid power, saving hundreds of
kilograms and putting stronger emphasis on driving pleasure. The engine
range consists of 4:
- CLE220d: 2.0 turbo diesel, 200hp, 324 lbft, 0-60 mph
in 7.1 sec, 148 mph.
- CLE200: 2.0 turbo, Miller cycle, 204hp, 221 lbft, 7.0
sec, 149 mph.
- CLE300 4matic: 2.0 turbo, Camtronic (2-stage variable
valve lift), 258 hp, 295 lbft, 5.9 sec, 155 mph.
- CLE450 4matic: 3.0 straight-6, twin-scroll turbo,
381hp, 369 lbft, 4.2 sec, 155 mph.
Curiously, even CLE300 is fitted with 4-wheel drive as standard, much
like Audi. This implies how Mercedes sees the priority of this car.
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CLE
is more about comfort and refinement than outright thrills.
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On the road, the CLE is more about comfort and refinement
than outright thrills. All engines are smooth and relatively quiet, but
only the six-cylinder has the power, response and sound quality to
impress. With adaptive dampers set to Sport mode, the car controls its
body movement nicely, especially at higher speed corners. The steering
is precise and nicely weighted, but without telling you much about the
road ahead. The compulsory 4-wheel drive means the car is tuned for
security rather than interactive handling. Meanwhile, the ride is
supple and controlled. Noise insulation is remarkable. Those admiring
the traditional qualities of Mercedes will appreciate how the CLE
drives. After all, the CLE is a luxury car dressed in a coupe body.
Will the upcoming CLE43 and CLE63 AMG models add more sparkles?
Probably, but unless AMG abandons the current formula of 4-cylinder
plug-in hybrid powertrain, we won’t expect too much.
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Verdict: |
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