2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet Review

Are you looking for a sleek convertible that turns heads? The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet might be your answer. This new model blends features from the old E-Class and C-Class drop-tops.

It offers a longer wheelbase and bigger size than the previous C-Class convertible. Our review will help you decide if this car is worth your money. Ready to learn more about this luxury ride?

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet Canadian Prices

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet is not a cheap car, but then again, this is a Mercedes-Benz and you’re getting a premium product. In Canada, the CLE 300 Cabriolet has a starting price of $71,650, with all the boxes ticked, the price can reach the $90,000 level. Our review car had a sticker price of $87,450, before Freight & PDI, and taxes.

Optional packages on our review car included the following packages:

• Pinnacle Trim ($4,100)
• AMG Line ($3,500)
• Driver’s Assistance Package $2,700)
• Multicontour Front Seats ($1,200)
• Burmester Surround Sound System ($1,100)
• Spectral Blue Metallic paint ($900)
• Climate Comfort Front Seats ($600)
• Dashcam ($300)
• Anthracite Open-Pore Wood Trim ($200)
• ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL Plus ($200)
• 20″ AMG Multi-Spoke Light Allow Wheels ($1,000)

Overview of engine and performance

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet packs a punch under its sleek hood. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine cranks out 255 horspower at 5,800 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 – 3,200 rpm. But that’s not all – a 48-volt mild hybrid system adds an extra kick of 23 hp and 151 lb-ft.

This combo lets you zoom from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.6 seconds.

It’s like having a sports car and a smooth cruiser rolled into one, says Tom, a happy CLE 300 owner.

But here’s the rub: the nine-speed gearbox is tuned for fuel savings, not speed thrills. The gas pedal feels a bit lazy, so don’t expect instant zoom when you press down. It’s more of a smooth cruiser than a track star. Still, for most drivers, the CLE 300 offers plenty of pep for merging onto highways or passing slower cars on back roads.

While in today’s world of crazy horsepower numbers, the 255 HP might not seem like much, I found it to be decent enough. The CLE 300 Cabriolet can go fast, however, getting there isn’t as thrilling as it would be in a 6 or 8 cylinder car. The CLE 300 Cabriolet offers a smooth ride and it’s really fun to drive, I’m just not that big of a fan of the sounds the engine made.

I have driven other turbocharged 4-cylinder engine cars, that make the right kinds of noises, but that’s not the case with the CLE 300.

Handling and ride quality

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet offers a smooth ride with its sport suspension. The car grips the road well in turns, thanks to its independent setup. Multi-piston sport brakes give drivers confidence to stop quickly.

With the top up, wind noise stays low, making for a peaceful drive.

It’s like gliding on a cloud, but with the control of a sports car.

Drivers will enjoy the Aircap system, which cuts down on wind when the top is down. While the steering could give more feedback, the car still corners nicely. The CLE 300 strikes a good balance between comfort and sportiness, perfect for cruising or spirited driving.

Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet Styling

Styling is subjective and tastes differ from one individual to another. I think the CLE 300 is a nice design, it’s elegant and sporty, but not in your face. It isn’t quite as elegant as the E 450 Cabriolet I reviewed a few years ago, which was one of my favorite convertibles.

However, this being a Mercedes-Benz convertible, with it’s bright blue paint and white interior was quite the head turner.

Interior design and comfort

The CLE 300 Cabriolet’s interior is a treat. Mercedes has crafted a space that blends luxury and tech seamlessly. The minimalist design catches the eye right away.

A huge 11.9-inch center screen dominates the dash, paired with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. These screens handle most controls, giving the cabin a clean, modern look.

Comfort is king in this drop-top. The front seats offer plenty of room, with 40.2 inches of headroom when the top’s up. Heated and cooled leather seats keep you comfy in any weather.

The back seats are a bit tighter but still usable for short trips. With 9.6 cubic feet of trunk space, you can pack for a weekend getaway with ease. The premium materials and smart design make every drive feel special.

Infotainment and connectivity features

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet packs a punch in the tech department. It sports a huge 11.9-inch center screen with MBUX software. This pairs with a 12.3-inch digital dash for a modern cockpit feel.

The system responds to voice commands, so you can just say “Hey Mercedes” to control features. No need to take your hands off the wheel.

Music lovers will dig the standard 17-speaker Burmester audio setup. It fills the cabin with rich sound, top up or down. Wireless Apple CarPlay makes it a breeze to use your iPhone apps on the big screen.

You’ll stay connected and entertained on every drive. The tech in this droptop is both smart and easy to use.

Technology and Safety Features

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet packs a punch with its tech and safety gear. It’s loaded with smart features that keep you safe and connected on the road.

Advanced driver-assistance systems

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet is equipped with advanced safety technology. Here’s an overview of the driver-assistance systems that make this car exceptional:

1. Automated Emergency Braking: This system activates to stop the car if it detects an imminent collision. It functions like an attentive co-pilot constantly monitoring the road.
2. Lane-Keeping Assist: The car subtly corrects your course if you begin to drift out of your lane. It acts like unseen barriers keeping you in position.
3. Forward-Collision Warning: The car alerts you if you’re approaching the vehicle ahead too closely. Consider it your personal space protector on the road.
4. Radar Cruise Control (Distronic): This intelligent system maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front, adjusting speed as necessary. It’s an enhanced version of cruise control.
5. Blind Spot Monitoring: It observes those challenging areas outside your view and notifies you if a vehicle is present. This eliminates the need to strain your neck to check your blind spots.
6. Cross-Traffic Alert: When reversing from a parking space, it warns you about approaching vehicles from the sides. It’s comparable to having enhanced peripheral vision.
7. Pre-Safe System: If the car anticipates a collision, it tightens seatbelts and closes windows. It prepares for impact preemptively.

These features collaborate to enhance driving safety and ease. Let’s examine how the CLE 300 Cabriolet performs on the road.

Pros and Cons

The CLE 300 Cabriolet has its ups and downs. Let’s take a quick look at what makes it shine and where it might fall short.

Highlights of the CLE 300 Cabriolet

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet stands out in the luxury convertible market. Here are some key highlights that make this car a top pick for discerning drivers:

1. Spacious Interior: With 40.2 inches of headroom and 55.7 inches of shoulder room up front, you’ll feel like you’re in a mobile living room.
2. High-Tech Displays: An 11.9-inch center screen and 12.3-inch digital dash with MBUX software keep you connected and informed.
3. Combination of Features: This model effectively combines features from the former E-Class and C-Class convertibles, giving you the best of both.
4. Competitive Pricing: While this is not a cheap car, it’s competitvely priced against cars like the BMW 4-Series and Audi A5 convertibles.
5. Advanced Driver Aids: The car comes equipped with cutting-edge assistance systems to keep you safe on the road.
6. Smooth Ride: Its well-tuned suspension absorbs bumps effectively, making long drives comfortable.
7. Stylish Design: With sleek lines and a classy look, this car attracts attention wherever it goes.

Now, let’s examine some potential drawbacks of this elegant vehicle.

Potential drawbacks

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet has a few issues worth noting. Let’s look at some drawbacks that might make you think twice:

1. Lackluster engine sound: The four-cylinder powertrain doesn’t give you that thrilling roar you might expect from a luxury convertible.
2. Limited rear view: With the top up, seeing what’s behind you becomes a challenge. This could make backing up or changing lanes trickier.
3. Overzealous parking sensors: The car’s parking aids are a bit too eager, often beeping when there’s still plenty of space.
4. Weight concerns: The curb weight of this cabrio might affect its agility on the road, especially compared to lighter rivals.
5. Pricey add-ons: Many desirable features come at an extra cost, which can quickly bump up the price tag.
6. Tight rear seats: Adults might find the back seats a squeeze, limiting the car’s practicality for four-person trips.

Closing Thoughts on the CLE 300 Cabriolet

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet hits the sweet spot for luxury drop-tops. It blends style, comfort, and tech in a package that’s hard to beat. Sure, it’s pricier than some rivals, but you get what you pay for. The CLE 300 offers a solid mix of style and performance. It’s got enough zip for most drivers. Plus, you’ll save at the pump with its better fuel economy.

This car shines on sunny drives and turns heads wherever it goes. For those who want a classy convertible, the CLE 300 is a top pick.

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