The replacement for the C- and E-Class coupés distills the best of both for a unique identity
Fresh but also reassuringly familiar, Mercedes-Benz’s latest independent series, the new CLE Coupé, will please those who enjoy German marque’s knack for delivering testosterone-charged drives wrapped in the sheen of time-honoured luxury. Athletically dashing as a two-door ought to be, while suave enough for the most glamorous venues—and spacious and performance-tuned to boot—the CLE class is, in short, a Mercedes-Benz coupé that understands the needs of its fanbase.
The backstory is that this car replaces the C- and E-Class coupés. While it appears a radical undertaking, the amalgamation makes sense. With Mercedes-Benz offering coupe and convertible variants for the C-class, E-class, and S-class at one point, streamlining the lineup was somewhat inevitable.
Debuting with the CLE 200 Coupé in Singapore, with the CLE 200 Cabriolet, CLE 53 Coupé and cabriolet versions soon to come, Mercedes-Benz attempts to offer greatest-hits compilation of its saloon counterparts.
Mercedes-Benz’s two-litre, four-cylinder engine from the current modular Mercedes-Benz engine family FAME (Family of Modular Engines) powers the CLE 200. The mild hybrid engine features a turbocharger, and a second-generation integrated starter generator (ISG) for low-speed support and power development, which also ensures optimum coasting, boost and recuperation for greater fuel efficiency.
Appearance-wise, it channels the C-Class Coupé with a silhouette that rises with a steep windscreen and dips smoothly with a long sloping roof to radiate its sportive spirit. Unmistakably muscular with a dash of refinement, the exterior also boasts a newly designed three-dimensional chrome radiator grille that accentuates its sense of regal dynamism.
On the inside though, the car will feel more ‘E’ than ‘C’, with more than ample leg and elbow room, and a capacious trunk that will easily handle your two-week vacation luggage with space to spare.
Teched-up comfort and convenience, too, are not compromised. In these areas, the CLE Coupé’s digital features adopted from the E-Class are telling. The car is wired with the third generation of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment and language assistant systems, making it Mercedes-Benz’s most intelligent coupé. It is also as connected as it gets, fitted with a 5G communication module for all your on-the-go business needs.
Meantime, the freestanding 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display and 11.9-inch central display are a cinch to access, the plush seats come with a seven-zone massage feature, and the standard Burmester 3D surround sound system, with two speakers at the level of the headrests, deliver impeccable enough auditory performance.
“At the heart of it, the CLE Coupé was designed to be the ultimate dream sportscar; a divine blend of prestige, comfort and the latest technology, integrated with the best features from our E-Class and C-Class models. It is truly in a league of its own,” says Claudius Steinhoff, president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Singapore.