Mercedes-Benz Drops the New 2024 CLE Cabriolet Droptop Variant of the Coupe

With the sixth generation Mercedes-Benz W214 E-Class sedan and similar C236 CLE-Class taking their introductory bows not too long ago, it was only a matter of time until the cabriolet version of the CLE followed and today, that’s exactly what the Stuttgart automaker just did. Hot off the press is the all-new 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet.

As one can deduce from the model name, the CLE Cabriolet is essentially the drop-top version of the CLE Coupe that debuted late last year. The CLE itself follows the footsteps and long lineage of being the two-door and more stylish variants of the E-Class sedan, a tradition dating back to the original W114 coupe (E-Class Coupe) and the W124-based E-Class Cabriolet or A124.

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The CLE Cabriolet Replaces Both The C-Class And E-Class Cabriolet

The CLE badge arrives as a result of Mercedes-Benz restructuring and streamlining its lineup as the smaller and more affordable C-Class coupe is no more. In terms of badge and model nomenclature, the “CL” is now reserved for all coupe and cabrio variants of its four-door car-based models.

Essentially a CLE Coupe with its head cut off, the CLE Cabriolet utilizes the same underpinnings as the hardtop version, which takes its backbone from Mercedes-Benz’s latest MRA modular architecture. Like the coupe, the CLE Cabrio will share its two 48-volt mild-hybrid power- and drivetrains with the coupe.

With 4MATIC all-wheel drive standard, the base CLE 300 4MATIC comes with the company’s latest 2.0-liter turbocharged M254 inline-four with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque on tap, with the mild-hybrid integrated starter generator (ISG) adding up to another 23 horses and 151 pound-feet on demand, depending on throttle output application, totaling 278 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-60 time of around 6.2 seconds.

The upgradable option for the CLE 450 4MATIC utilizes Mercedes’ latest 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six good for 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet and with the ISG, output totals 398 horsepower and 520 pound-feet of torque, yielding a manufacturer-claimed 0-60 time of 4.2 seconds.

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Technology, Style, And Safety Are Paramount

Like all Mercedes-Benz, the CLE Cabrio comes loaded up the wazoo with tons of tech and bespoke features. Some include Mercedes-Benz’s signature AIRCAP and AIRSCARF technologies, equipped specifically for all of its drop-top models. The former is a unique and automatic power retractable wind deflector that reduces wind buffering noises at speed for a quieter cabin when the top is down. The latter consists of special heating ducts and fans integrated into the front seats that help keep the occupants’ necks warm.

Safety is also paramount, another Mercedes-Benz signature, which is exemplified by the CLE Cabrio’s separate airbag units for the rear passengers. In the past, Mercedes-Benz helped pioneer convertible safety with its powered automatically extending roll-over protection bar, which would act if the vehicle detected a roll-over scenario—a technology that debuted on the CLE Cabrio’s predecessor, the A124 cabrio.

Also, standard in the safety department are Blind Spot Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, and Active Brake Assist. Optional extras include DISTRONIC PLUS radar-guided cruise control with Stop & GoAssist, Steering Assist, and Route-Based Speed Adaptation.

Pricing for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet starts at $64,350 for the CLE 300 and $76,450 for the CLE 450.