by Michael Satterfield - 10/02/2024
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4MATIC marks the brand's bold move to consolidate its coupe offerings, replacing both the C-Class and E-Class two-doors with a model that aims to blend luxury, comfort, and some sporty flair. With a more refined design, enhanced technology, and versatile performance, the CLE 300 is an intriguing proposition for those seeking a luxury coupe that's as stylish as it is capable.
Visually, the CLE 300 is a stunner. It features smooth, unbroken lines that give it a distinctive and upscale look, distinguishing itself from its predecessors. The car is slightly larger than the outgoing C-Class Coupe, which gives it a more substantial presence on the road while still appearing sleek and athletic. The front of the vehicle is reminiscent of the E-Class, while the rear borrows elements from the C-Class, creating a harmonious blend of the two models it replaces. Its design is characterized by minimalistic details and smooth bodywork, making it a strong contender in the luxury coupe segment. The CLE 300's side profile, in particular, stands out for its elegance, and it arguably surpasses rivals like the BMW 4 Series in sheer curb appeal.
Under the hood, the CLE 300 packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine coupled with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This setup delivers 258 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, providing sufficient thrust for everyday driving. The car's acceleration from 0-62 mph takes around 6.2 seconds, which, while not blistering, offers a balanced mix of performance and efficiency. The nine-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, complementing the car’s character as a relaxed grand tourer. The hybrid system adds a small electric boost during throttle inputs, which enhances responsiveness and aids fuel efficiency, although it cannot run the car purely on electric power.
While it’s tuned more for comfort than outright sportiness, the CLE 300 still holds its own in terms of driving dynamics. The all-wheel-drive system (4MATIC) offers good grip and stability, while the suspension absorbs most road imperfections effectively. However, some testers note that it does transmit more road noise than expected when equipped with 20-inch wheels. For those prioritizing comfort, opting for the 19-inch wheels might improve the ride quality slightly. The steering, while precise, lacks the tactile feedback of some competitors, such as the BMW 4 Series. Still, it delivers enough control to make the CLE enjoyable on a variety of road types.
The cabin of the CLE 300 combines elements from both the C-Class and E-Class, offering a spacious and upscale environment. The interior layout includes dual digital screens: a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. These high-resolution displays provide an array of functions, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but some may find the lack of physical controls for climate and audio settings frustrating. The touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel also require some patience to master.
Comfort is a strong point in the CLE, with leather upholstery and heated front seats coming as standard. The seats provide more legroom than the previous models, although some users may find the seat cushioning a bit flat for long trips. The rear seats are surprisingly usable for a coupe, and the trunk offers 15 square feet of cargo space, which is competitive for the segment. Available options like a panoramic sunroof and a premium Burmester audio system can elevate the luxury feel even further.
The CLE 300 is not trying to be a sports car, and that's evident in how it drives. It's more about smooth cruising and refined performance than carving through corners with aggression. Its handling is capable, but body roll is more noticeable compared to sharper rivals. This makes it well-suited for long-distance drives and urban commuting, where its plush ride and composed demeanor shine. The mild hybrid system contributes to better fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for a luxury daily driver.
For more spirited drivers, the CLE 450, with its six-cylinder engine and more power, might be a better fit, but the CLE 300 strikes a good balance between performance and comfort. The Dynamic Select system allows drivers to switch between different drive modes—Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual—offering some flexibility to tailor the driving experience. However, even in Sport mode, the CLE leans more towards a composed and relaxed driving style rather than an aggressive one.
Mercedes-Benz's decision to merge the C-Class and E-Class coupes into the CLE range was a strategic move to simplify its lineup. The market for luxury two-door coupes is shrinking, with Audi discontinuing the A5 Coupe and other brands focusing more on SUVs and electric vehicles. The CLE competes primarily with the BMW 4 Series and Lexus RC, and while it may not be the sportiest in its class, it stands out for its design and comfort.
The base price for the CLE 300 starts at around $56,500, which positions it competitively within the segment. However, once you start adding desirable options, the price can quickly approach $70,000. At this level, it offers a lot of standard equipment, but it may not provide the same value proposition as some of its competitors. Still, for those who prioritize style, luxury, and a refined driving experience, the CLE 300 makes a compelling case.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4MATIC is a well-rounded luxury coupe that delivers on comfort, style, and technology. Its blend of C-Class and E-Class attributes results in a car that offers more than its predecessors individually, especially in terms of cabin space and refinement. While it may not be the go-to choice for those seeking the sharpest driving dynamics, it excels as a relaxed grand tourer and daily driver. If you’re in the market for a premium coupe that’s more about cruising in comfort than chasing lap times, the CLE 300 is a strong contender. It may be the car that finally finds the sweet spot between luxury and practicality in the shrinking two-door segment.
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