In fact, over the past few decades, the ‘big three’ Audi, BMW, and Mercedes have infused sportiness into almost every car. From compact sedans to family SUVs, they’ve strongly focused on stiff suspension and quick steering, with priorities that tend to tilt toward performance versus comfort. It therefore makes sense for high-performance models like M cars and AMGs, but with daily drivers, it feels superfluous. Luckily, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE450 Cabriolet, it also appears that Mercedes knows what actually makes a car most luxurious: comfort.
Quick Specs: 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE450 Cabriolet
- Engine: 3.0-liter Inline-Six
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Power output: 375 hp / 369 lb-ft
- 0-60 MPH: 4 seconds
- Base Price / As Tested Price: $73,850 / $85,120
Filling a Gap in Mercedes’ Lineup
The CLE is the newest face in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, and it’s been added to fill the gap between the now-dead C-Class and E-Class coupes. It fits quite comfortably in size—not as compact as the former but not quite as large as the latter. At 4,486 pounds, it isn’t exactly lightweight. However, its luxurious nature makes up for the weight many times over, and at 375hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, it still has oodles of power on tap when it is really required.
Deliveries of its power are smooth, though, thanks to a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive. Especially in low-speed traffic, the 48-volt mild hybrid is remarkable, with an instant-on surge of torque before the turbocharger does its business. This hybrid boost is possible with the integrated starter-generator (ISG) mounted between the engine and transmission that delivers on the call for an additional 23 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque.
Performance Balanced, Not Overly Sporty
The CLE450 doesn’t try to be a sports car, but that’s half of the magic. The powertrain is strong and gives off a linear and smooth acceleration, enough to give you a sensation of swiftness but without any aggression or excitement of an AMG model. This is designed as a cruiser—it’s supposed to glide comfortably from A to B, and it does perfectly. But Sport mode sharpens the throttle response to a razor edge, albeit without actually interfering with the inherently relaxed personality of the vehicle. The only letdown is the sound of the exhaust. As silky as the inline-six engine is, the CLE450 sounds raspy and just plain bad; it feels wrong for a model not wearing an AMG badge. Mercedes should have left this just a bit more refined, especially in a car that emphasizes comfort rather than sportiness.
Impressive Glances
Stylistically, it appears the CLE450 melds elements of both the C-Class and E-Class, yet it somehow pulls it off. The car still looks cohesive from a design perspective despite the mix of different model elements. Not everybody will get over a bright red cloth top, while others won’t think twice about adding the $1,620 red leather interior. The car has quite good visibility, even with the top up, thanks to large rear quarter windows, although the high beltline might not favour those who like to rest an arm out the window.
Comfort and Interior Design
Step inside and you’re treated to a rather minimalist yet superbly elegant cabin. The seats are highly adjustable and quite comfortable, offering practically any necessary support and bolster adjustments, and some even have in-seat massage functions.
However, all these controls are operated via the massive 11.9-inch touchscreen, which, while modern, can feel overwhelming. Touch-sensitive steering wheel controls are another area where Mercedes could have dialled back on tech—they’re finicky and prone to accidental swipes. A few more physical buttons would certainly enhance the driving experience.
Despite those quibbles, the overall driving experience in the CLE450 is one of ease and relaxation. The steering is smooth and light, while the suspension keeps things cushioned, easily soaking up bumps. The brake pedal is tuned for smooth stops, with the throttle encouraging a gradual, calm take-off—a setup perfect for a vehicle more in its element cruising luxuriously rather than performing outright.
Genuine Luxury
The 2024 CLE450 Cabriolet, is really as it’s meant to be: a luxury convertible focused on relaxation rather than sportiness. It may handle corners nicely and speed up in a hurry when necessary, but at its very essence is the quietness with which it goes about offering an easygoing experience. Features like the available massage seats and the Burmester sound system only add to the sense of luxury. Even better is the feature from Mercedes called Airscarf, which blows warm air through the headrest at the back of your neck and will allow you to drive with the top down even on chillier days.
Competitors: BMW 4 Series Convertible
The interior of the BMW is just better laid out logically, and it also provides a little more interesting powertrain with its M440i model for those wanting to find some extra fun in a daily driver. If you’re after a convertible that leans more toward comfort and sophistication, then you’d find it really hard to beat the Mercedes CLE450.
Price
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE450 Cabriolet is priced At $75,000, it’s loaded with standard features and offers a feel of refinement that makes every drive feel special. If you’re the kind to take it easy most of the time but also enjoy a spirited drive now and then, you’ll lean toward the BMW.
