First Drive: Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet.

For those who truly cherish the timeless appeal of top-down driving on the open road, the all new Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet is a dream come true.

Replacing the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class Cabriolet models, this stunning new convertible delivers on its promise of sharp performance, innovative technology and next-level comfort.

New levels of luxury

The appeal of the all new CLE Cabriolet begins with its sleek silhouette. Defining the impressive front end is a low-set bonnet and A-shaped radiator embellished with signature Mercedes-Benz three-pointed stars. At the rear, two-part lights with a connecting design element give the car a sporty look. Adding to the car’s elegant but powerful demeanour are 19-inch AMG multi-spoke light alloy wheels fitted as standard.

The all new CLE Cabriolet’s fully automatic, insulated fabric acoustic soft-top is offered in a choice of three colours; it shields those in the cabin from external heat, cold and noise, and can be lowered in around 20 seconds when travelling at speeds of up to 60km/h.

Once inside, the car reveals a suite of luxurious, state-of-the-art appointments – from the Burmester® 3D surround sound system and ambient lighting, to the newly redesigned dashboard with nappa-look ARTICO leather. The optional multi-contour driver and front-passenger seats – which are heated, electronic and come with Memory function as standard – guarantee comfort on every journey.

Our third-generation MBUX infotainment system is displayed on a 30.2cm (11.9-inch), high-resolution centre screen, and can be controlled via voice, touch or gesture. It can also be tilted 15-40 degrees to reduce glare and reflections when the roof is down. Compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system seamlessly integrates into your digital life. For the fully connected family, wireless phone charging is available in the front as standard, plus two USB-C charging ports on the centre console and another two on the armrest in the second row.

Adding a personal touch to the driving experience, the all new CLE Cabriolet can attune itself to the driver’s habits behind the wheel – it can even provide reminders and prompts via the central display.

Power, protection, precision

Powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the all new CLE 300 Cabriolet accelerates from 0-100km/h in just 6.6 seconds. The engine produces 190kW and 400Nm of torque – plus a brief boost of up to 17kW and 205Nm for overtaking via an integrated starter-generator.

As with every Mercedes-Benz, safety is a chief consideration in the all new CLE Cabriolet. When developing the convertible, engineers studied real-life accidents to find ways of enhancing protection for all occupants. The result is a sophisticated rollover protection system with highly rigid A-pillars and 10 individual airbags – including centre airbags positioned between the driver and front passenger, and two separate head-protecting airbags for rear occupants.

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are designed to support braking, steering, and more, while our innovative PRE-SAFE system uses a network of sensors to detect potential collisions and reduce the risk of harm to occupants should an accident occur.

Out in the open

The all new CLE Cabriolet’s cohesive design, intuitive operation and cutting-edge technology culminate in an exceptional on-road experience. Its steering is remarkably precise, while the lack of buffeting offers a noticeably smooth, road-hugging drive.

Whilst driving this car is both comfortable and relaxing, the unmistakable power of the all new CLE Cabriolet is always readily available should the driver choose to call upon it. Dynamic performance capabilities, which are especially noticeable when driving in Sport mode, lie beneath its luxurious exterior.

With the addition of a few key features, the open-air experience can be enjoyed all year round. The leather upholstery, for example, comes with an infrared-resistant coating – keeping the seats up to 12 degrees cooler than traditional leather when exposed to direct sunlight. On colder days, the optional AIRSCARF heater system works like an invisible scarf, wrapping warm air around the throat and neck of the driver and front passenger to keep them cosy. Better still, the AIRCAP electric wind deflector helps to reduce cabin turbulence, ensuring the occupants are comfortable whenever the roof is lowered.

The all new CLE Cabriolet embodies luxury with its exclusive interior and stylish design. Enhanced by top-tier technology, new-generation infotainment, advanced driver assistance systems, and the exhilaration of open-air driving, it's a compelling addition to the Mercedes-Benz family.