Mercedes-Benz CLE convertible 2024: genetically modified, but still vulnerable – Road test

While car sales have been declining for years in favor of SUVs, it’s easy to imagine that sales of luxury coupes and convertibles are even more anemic. It has been rare to come across this type of car on our roads like driving on a bumpy road. It is not for nothing that many examples have been erased from the map or put on the list of endangered species.

Instead of just removing its C and E Class replicas and replacements, Mercedes-Benz he had an interesting idea: to create a model that would confuse them, a kind of genetic experiment that would probably ensure their survival. This is how the news was born CLE Class of 2024a car that is available in a coupe and convertible with 2 doors and 5 seats. I would not bet too much on the longevity of such a model in time, but, at least, Mercedes-Benz continues the offer for the few buyers who are still interested in this type of a car, especially a convertible.

My colleague Samuel Tremblay-Michaud was able to test drive the 2024 CLE 300 4MATIC coupe last September. In my case, I tested the CLE convertible and the AMG CLE 53 coupe, but this will be the subject of another article next week. Let’s focus on conversion for now.

The largest in its category

In terms of specifications, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE convertible is more attractive than the old C-Class Convertible, especially with 25 millimeters longer wheelbase. It is close to the E-Class in size, which is natural since its platform is based on it. It is also more spacious than its rivals; there are very few left, but we can mention the Audi A5 convertible.

It is especially the interior of the CLE that benefits from increased dimensions, the two rear passengers as well, with 14 millimeters more in the legs and 22 in the shoulders. I took a seat in the back, we get an acceptable position, but it is still poor. It is mainly the backrest almost right-angled which becomes a penalty for a long time.

When it comes to style, I like a combination that is modern, but with a sporty touch. It’s pure Mercedes-Benz, less divisive than the electrified EQ models. The slim LED lights at the front, like the taillights, also bring a nice touch, it’s a nice visual signature, like the front that the manufacturer lovingly calls. the shark’s nose. The soft fabric roof also reinforces the style by supporting the high impact of the model.

Attractive and interactive dashboard

The interior also represents a good evolution with a more techno presentation, but a good balance. Placed directly in front of the driver, we find the instrument cluster screen with a 12.3-inch display; it is customizable, and the clarity of the display is very impressive. We have all the important information right in front and the steering wheel doesn’t hide anything. Speaking of the steering wheel, I like its grip. It is wide and offers a good control image. BMW is king in this area, but it’s a good effort for CLE.

In the middle, under the ventilation nozzles, we find the touchscreen of the infotainment system. It measures 11.9 inches, placed slightly lower and in portrait position. It only took me a short time to fully understand it as the menu is simple and well designed. Interestingly in the case of the convertible, compared to the coupe, the screen is equipped with a small electric motor that is used to tilt, between 12 and 32 degrees, to remove the sun’s rays and make it more readable. you are driving under the open sky.

Aside from a few standard controls below the screen, the dashboard remains crisp and refined. However, it gives the impression of being very attractive, especially with the wide central console, close to the dashboard. It really interferes with the leg space, I felt like it was invading my space.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 convertible has 385 liters of luggage space in the trunk, which is enough for your golf bags. However, it drops to 295 liters when the top is folded, but this configuration change fortunately does not require any manual intervention.

One version, one engine

If you are interested in a model, the choice is very simple. The CLE comes in just one trim, the Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4Matic, so you’ll only have package options to worry about.

Under the hood, it benefits from mechanics that may seem intimidating. True, but the power assist saves it from the biggest criticism. So it is a compact hybrid system that is based on a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that develops 255 horsepower and produces 295 foot-pounds of torque. The engine is supported by an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) powered by an on-board volt electric system. 48. It provides functions such as starting, recuperating and providing additional power (23 horsepower) and torque (151 foot-pounds) when needed. This is especially the case when climbing a hill or at high speeds that are felt.

Mercedes-Benz could push the model’s power a little more, especially with a plug-in hybrid. I have to admit that the idea of ​​driving around with the roof down in electric mode in complete silence would be interesting.

Waiting for AMG

The test was conducted in a mountainous area on very hilly sections of the road, the perfect environment to test the capabilities of such a vehicle. In terms of power, it is fair. This basic production is aimed at smooth driving; we believe at Mercedes-Benz that buyers don’t have to look for power in this segment. The performance part will be reserved for the production AMG CLE 53 It is not confirmed in the convertible formula, but it is an open secret, especially since it arrives this year in a coupe. An engineer even escaped confirming his imminent arrival.

I have a few complaints however about the dynamics. I didn’t feel any of the smoothness or heaviness that is often found in converters. You should know that the CLE convertible weighs 130 kg (286 pounds) more than the coupe. This extra weight is well controlled, and the stiffness of the structure is also preserved.

Hat challenges

But in the case of a convertible, it’s about the whole idea of ​​driving under the open sky that appeals to you. You might want to learn more about the CLE power line top, which can be opened in 20 seconds, while traveling at speeds of up to 60 km/h. I have to admit that I was surprised by its sound insulation. When I was driving with the top down, I couldn’t hear the wind, the road or any other car noises. Soundproofing often takes a backseat to transducers, but this is not the case with the CLE.

Engineers worked on two important things. The first challenge, which seemed to be the biggest challenge, was to control the inflow of water. He told us that, several times, he thought he had a perfect seal, but during the tests with high pressure, the water leaked everywhere. The builder worked on every contact point of the roof by connecting more angular joints, almost sharp, to control everything.

Aircap, adjusting the aerodynamics for the benefit of comfort

Another interesting feature is the addition of the Aircap system that is already available on other models. This is a rigid slat with a soft fabric section that extends over the windshield. It improves the aerodynamics of the car by pushing the air flow upwards, which prevents the wind from rushing into the passenger compartment from the back. The idea proved to be very effective, we tried it by hand folding, but its use comes with inconvenience. Wind blowing through fabric causes annoying wind noise.

In general, a new converter Mercedes-Benz CLE 2024 It’s interesting, I especially remember the space on the board and all the technologies that affect it smoothly. It lacks power, in my opinion, but its refinement and presentation have the desired effect.

Despite the engine’s relatively uncomplicated technology, we will evaluate it carefully before recommending it. I actually had a problem with the proximity alarm. It remained continuously freezing and cracking my ears until the car’s system was restarted by one of the Mercedes-Benz team members.

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