The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE450 Proves a Useful Coupe Isn't an Oxymoron

In the evolving landscape of automotive design, coupes have often found themselves dancing on the edge of practicality. Their sinuous fastback silhouettes and two-door charm, while undeniably alluring, have come with trade-offs. Compared to their sedan counterparts, coupes sacrifice a couple of doors, some headroom, and a dash of versatility. And in a world where SUVs dominate, coupes have often been relegated to the sidelines.

Enter the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class Coupe—a new entry into a niche segment that includes the BMW 4 Series, Audi A5, and Lexus RC. Although it won’t single-handedly reshape the landscape among those competitors, this Mercedes proves the German automaker is all-in on two-doors, even if this specific all-new CLE-Class model range with its four-cylinder C300, AMG-ified CLE53, and midrange six-cylinder CLE450 (tested here) represents a consolidated replacement for the previous-generation C- and E-Class coupes.

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Why Is the CLE Coupe a Good Coupe?

Let's dive into its dimensions. With a substantial 112.8-inch wheelbase and a length of 191.0 inches, the CLE leans closer to the former E-Class Coupe than the smaller C-Class Coupe. This translates into ample room to comfortably seat four people—something not every coupe can boast.

During our time with the six-cylinder CLE450 Coupe, we cruised through the streets of Los Angeles with friends comfortably settled in the back seat. They found the accommodations quite pleasant, though none of those passengers was taller than 5-feet,10-inches. Entering the back seat is a breeze; simply pull a leather strap and watch as the front seats glide forward automatically, creating a generous pathway. Granted, bending a bit at the back and knees is necessary, but it's otherwise a straightforward maneuver.

As with any coupe, the CLE does have its limitations in the headroom department, which is why we mentioned those passengers’ heights. Whether in the front or rear seats, headroom is somewhat restricted for taller riders. This author’s 6-foot frame found itself brushing against the headliner when jostled over rough roads.

Cargo space is indeed generous. Mercedes claims the trunk can accommodate three golf bags, but we found that to be a bit optimistic. Two bags fit comfortably within the 14.8-cubic-foot cargo area, but squeezing in a third would require some creative packing—perhaps even junior-sized clubs. Nonetheless, the space easily handles two large suitcases, making it ideal for airport runs or extended road trips.

Inside, the cabin of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 Coupe screams opulence and comfort. Our test model was outfitted with several optional packages that elevated the interior to a new level. Highlights included the Multicontour front seats with massage function, which we enjoyed even on short drives, and the ambient lighting system boasting an impressive 64-color palette, creating an ambiance akin to a chic nightclub.

Technological prowess further enhances the experience, with an expansive 11.9-inch center touchscreen and a crisp 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. These interfaces not only deliver sharp graphics but also operate with impressive speed and responsiveness. Opting for the vibrant Power Red leather upholstery added a splash of personality to the interior, complementing the standout Alpine Gray exterior and accentuating its distinctive character lines.

With all of this, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE450 shows that the automaker knows how to build a competitive coupe. It strikes a balance by offering a surprisingly spacious cabin and ample cargo capacity, despite its two-door configuration and somewhat limited headroom. These things might not appeal to everyone, but its striking aesthetics will resonate with a niche audience seeking both style and substance.

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How Does the 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 Coupe Drive?

Powered by a robust 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six churning out 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, the CLE450 delivers smooth, peppy straight-line performance. Running from zero to 60 mph takes only 4.1 seconds, just 0.1 second behind its primary rival, the BMW M440i xDrive Coupe. Over the quarter-mile stretch, the CLE maintains a close pace, clocking in at 12.9 seconds at 105 mph, again barely shading the BMW’s 12.6 seconds at 110.2 mph. We last tested a BMW M440i xDrive Coupe in 2022, but not much has changed for the Bimmer since then.

At highway speeds, the CLE exhibits confident overtaking prowess, effortlessly surging past slower traffic. At city speeds, things are generally buttery. The standard 48-volt mild hybrid setup ensures an almost imperceptible engine stop-start experience when the engine is shut down as you coast to approach and stop at a light, but there's room for improvement in its restarts' responsiveness. Occasionally, there is a slight delay in the engine refiring, enough to introduce a subtle jerkiness during slow-speed transitions from slowing to a near-stop and then accelerating again.

The CLE450 impresses with its serene cabin and plush ride quality. Even on the notoriously uneven streets of Los Angeles, bumps and imperfections are absorbed admirably by the suspension, ensuring minimal vibrations inside. The primary Comfort drive mode is agreeable, though we wish there were the option for a bit more sensation of performance.

Sport mode doesn't alter the ride quality—a trait that betrays the absence of an adjustable suspension typically found in cars at this price point and caliber. During testing at the track, the CLE450 drew criticism from road test editor Chris Walton for its loose body control and inconsistent transitions between under- and oversteer. Ultimate grip isn’t a problem—at 0.91 g its lateral grip is strong—but it’s not quite to the credit of the suspension as much as the tires and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive. Those who drive hard (like us) will wish the ride were tailored (or adjustable) for a sportier balance with comfort, but most drivers will appreciate the plush tune in everyday motoring (and not pushing the CLE to its limits on a track).

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You Pay for What You Get

Skipping past the $57,650 entry-level CLE300 and its 255-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine for the CLE450 variant requires spending nearly 10 grand more. Starting at $66,800, the CLE450 can get pricier still. With options and extra packages tacked on, the total quickly climbs; the model tested here rings in at $77,490. Want more performance than this softie can deliver? You can pay even more for the Mercedes-AMG version, the 443-hp CLE53, which starts at $73,950 and gets a proper performance makeover from the tires up.

While even the CLE450’s price tag looks steep, it reflects the luxurious cabin and abundance of features that will impress any passenger. The CLE showcases Mercedes' expertise in crafting a coupe with a spacious interior and practical cargo area, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize comfort and utility in addition to sleek style and a powerful engine.

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