Gliding Along in the Mercedes CLE 450 Cabriolet - Balancing Comfort and Speed
Review: 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet
Driving through the summer breeze with the top down in a refined Mercedes CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet is an enjoyable experience. ntv.de recently test-drove the open-topped model to assess its luxury and performance.
In just 20 seconds, the fabric roof disappears neatly into the trunk, while the unfettered sky takes its place. The cabriolet's true luxury may not lie in its gadgetry but in its uncluttered design, as the diminishing number of cabriolet models makes open motoring increasingly rare and exclusive.
Mercedes positions the CLE as a midpoint between the E- and C-Class, but one could argue that it leans more towards the E-Class, being longer (4.85 meters) and offering features unavailable in C-Class models, such as the inline-six engine. This smooth powertrain produces an engaging experience that sets the CLE apart.
The six-cylinder engine's sound profile has been fine-tuned to give a sportier edge, although it only becomes apparent when using the full rev range. Despite this, the engine remains mostly quiet, echoing Mercedes' emphasis on comfort. The ride is smooth, the suspension absorbing poor road conditions, while the comfortable seats invite long-distance travels.
However, the CLE is best suited for fair-weather weekend cruises with the occasional long vacation trip. The vehicle's exterior is designed for open-air driving, with minimal wind interference thanks to a gently sloping windshield and an optional, somewhat questionable-looking wind deflector. Rear seat comfort is compromised, with limited space for passengers.
Nevertheless, sitting in the back seat offers a sense of freedom and exhilaration, particularly when the vehicle is driven aggressively on open roads. The all-wheel-drive cabriolet can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, delivering a physical and emotional gale-force experience.
Additional features include the Airscarf, a built-in fan that warms the neck during cooler weather, and the optional electronic seatbelt present due to the lack of a B-pillar. The central touchscreen can be adjusted for improved readability in bright sunlight, and the rear seat can be folded down for added luggage space.
Reviewers have highlighted a few areas for improvement in the CLE. The absence of haptic feedback in the seat adjustment buttons has been noted, although this issue has reportedly been addressed in the new CLA.
The price of the CLE Cabriolet may be a concern, with prices ranging from approximately $78,485 to $82,965 in the United States. Although base models come well-equipped, luxury cabriolets like the CLE face criticism for their high price tags compared to entry-level convertibles. In the UK, the CLE Cabriolet is slightly more expensive than the BMW 4 Series Convertible, but it offers more standard equipment.
Overall, the Mercedes CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet delivers a comfortable, enjoyable ride with a powerful inline-six engine and open-air driving experience. However, its pricing, certain interior choices, and limited rear seat comfort receive mixed feedback from reviewers. Prospective buyers considering the CLE Cabriolet should carefully weigh its features against its high cost.
[1] https://www.mercedes-benz-usa.com/vehicles/cle/[2] https://www.cars.com/compare-cars/mercedes-benz-cles-vs-bmw-4-series/[3] https://www.caranddriver.com/mercedes/cle[4] https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/cles/2025/[5] https://www.parkers.co.uk/car-reviews/mercedes/cle-cabriolet/2023-mercedes-cle-range-review/
- Despite its luxury and performance, other vehicles of heading 8702, such as home-and-garden, lifestyle, and car-maintenance items, might be more budget-friendly alternatives to the high-price tag of electric vehicles like the Mercedes CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet.
- For those who appreciate the unique experience of open-topped driving, cars like the Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet, especially with its six-cylinder engine and smooth ride, are an appealing choice within the home-and-garden segment.
- With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, it will be interesting to see how the Mercedes CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet, a traditional combustion engine vehicle, competes and adapts to the changing lifestyle and preferences of car enthusiasts.
