Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet: Price, Specs, Features & Pros and Cons
The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet is a four-seat luxury convertible for buyers who want open-top driving without moving to a dedicated sports car. It combines a fabric soft top, standard all-wheel drive, and a choice of four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and AMG powertrains.
The current U.S. range includes the CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet, CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet, and AMG CLE 53 Cabriolet. Each uses a power soft top and seats four, but rear-seat space and trunk capacity are limited, especially when carrying luggage.
For most buyers, the CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet is the standout choice. It has the smooth 375-hp inline-six needed to make an open-top luxury car feel genuinely special without the higher costs of the AMG version.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.1/10
The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet earns an 8.1/10 WheelPedia Rating for its open-air character, appealing design, strong powertrain range, standard all-wheel drive, and useful cold-weather convertible features.
Its main drawbacks are the high price, tight rear seating, small trunk, premium-fuel requirement, and ownership costs that rise with the CLE 450 and AMG CLE 53.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 8.1/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and ownership | 7.8/10 | 15% |
| Performance and driving | 8.8/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and practicality | 7.7/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency, fuel economy, or range | 8.4/10 | 15% |
| Features and technology | 8.7/10 | 10% |
| Price and value | 7.4/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.1/10 | — |
See how WheelPedia rates cars for the full scoring method.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $69,400 MSRP in the United States, before destination, taxes, registration, and options.
- Four-seat convertible with a power fabric soft top.
- CLE 300 uses a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder mild-hybrid powertrain.
- CLE 450 uses a 375-hp turbocharged inline-six mild-hybrid powertrain.
- AMG CLE 53 produces 443 hp and reaches 60 mph in 4.2 seconds.
- Every current CLE Cabriolet has all-wheel drive.
- CLE 300 returns an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.
- All models have 9.6 cubic feet of trunk space.
- AIRSCARF neck-level heating helps extend open-top driving into cooler weather.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet |
| Vehicle type | Compact luxury convertible |
| Seating capacity | 4 |
| Roof | Power fabric soft top |
| Engine | 3.0L turbocharged inline-six with mild-hybrid assist |
| Power | 375 hp |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4MATIC all-wheel drive |
| 0–60 mph | 4.2 seconds |
| Fuel economy | 23 city / 32 highway mpg |
| Cargo capacity | 9.6 cu. ft. |
| Length | 191.0 in. |
| Width without mirrors | 73.3 in. |
| Height | 56.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 112.8 in. |
| Fuel requirement | Premium unleaded gasoline |
Expert Tip:
The CLE 450 is the better convertible choice for most buyers. The price increase over the CLE 300 is meaningful, but the six-cylinder engine is better suited to relaxed highway driving with the roof down.
About the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet
The CLE Cabriolet shares its basic range with the Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe, but it is designed around the experience of driving with the roof down. Its fabric top gives it a more traditional convertible feel than a retractable hardtop and reduces the car’s trunk capacity.
It has four seats, but the rear seats are best used occasionally. The Cabriolet is suited to couples, weekend trips, and warm-weather driving rather than regular family use or high-volume cargo carrying.
The CLE’s AIRSCARF system directs warmed air around the front occupants’ necks and shoulders. Along with heated seats and wind-management features, it makes open-top driving more comfortable when temperatures fall.
Price and Trims
These are current U.S. starting MSRPs. Final pricing can change with destination charges, paint, wheel choices, packages, dealer-installed accessories, and local market conditions.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Powertrain | Drivetrain | 0–60 mph |
| CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet | $69,400 | 255-hp 2.0L turbo mild hybrid | AWD | 6.2 sec |
| CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet | $78,900 | 375-hp 3.0L turbo mild hybrid | AWD | 4.2 sec |
| Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Cabriolet | $85,700 | 443-hp 3.0L turbo mild hybrid | AWD | 4.2 sec |
The CLE 300 is the appropriate choice if you want the lowest entry price and place more weight on fuel economy. The CLE 450 is the strongest all-round convertible because it adds smooth, forceful six-cylinder performance without the added firmness and running costs of the AMG.
Choose the AMG CLE 53 only if sharper driving responses and performance hardware matter enough to justify the higher price.
Engine, Powertrain, and Performance
All current CLE Cabriolets use a 9-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, and mild-hybrid assistance. The mild-hybrid system helps start-stop operation and acceleration response but does not provide electric-only driving.
| Model | Powertrain | Horsepower | Torque | Drivetrain |
| CLE 300 | 2.0L turbo four-cylinder mild hybrid | 255 hp | 295 lb-ft | AWD |
| CLE 450 | 3.0L turbo inline-six mild hybrid | 375 hp | 369 lb-ft | AWD |
| AMG CLE 53 | 3.0L turbo inline-six mild hybrid | 443 hp | 413 lb-ft | AWD |
The CLE 300 is sufficient for relaxed driving. The CLE 450 provides a much stronger, smoother response and makes highway passing easier with passengers and luggage aboard.
The AMG CLE 53 adds an electric auxiliary compressor, AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension, rear-wheel steering, and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. It is the most athletic version but also the most expensive to insure and maintain.
0–60 MPH Performance
| Model | Manufacturer-Claimed 0–60 mph Time |
| CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet | 6.2 sec |
| CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet | 4.2 sec |
| Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Cabriolet | 4.2 sec |
The CLE 450 is fast enough for nearly any road situation. The AMG CLE 53 matches its claimed 0–60 mph time but provides a more performance-oriented suspension and steering setup.
Driving Experience
The CLE Cabriolet is most enjoyable on open roads and scenic routes. With the roof up, it provides the insulation and refinement expected from a luxury convertible. With the roof down, the car feels more relaxed and engaging than the Coupe.
The CLE 300 has comfort-oriented suspension tuning and is the easiest choice for calm daily driving. The CLE 450 has sportier tuning but remains comfortable enough for long trips. The AMG CLE 53 has firmer suspension and more direct steering, which improves its response but makes road imperfections more noticeable.
The AIRSCARF neck-level heating system is a meaningful feature rather than a gimmick. It warms the front occupants around the head and shoulders, helping keep the cabin comfortable in cool weather with the roof lowered.
Fuel Economy
| Model | EPA-Estimated City / Highway Fuel Economy |
| CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet | 24 / 33 mpg |
| CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet | 23 / 32 mpg |
| Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Cabriolet | 19 / 26 mpg |
The CLE 300 is the efficiency choice. The CLE 450 sacrifices very little highway fuel economy for considerably more power, making it the more appealing option for buyers who drive regularly outside the city. Every CLE Cabriolet requires premium unleaded gasoline.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The CLE Cabriolet has a modern Mercedes-Benz cabin with a large central screen, digital instruments, and a driver-focused layout. Front-seat space is good, while rear seating is limited by the convertible body shape and two-door access.
Standard and available features include:
- MBUX infotainment system
- Digital instrument display and central touchscreen
- “Hey, Mercedes” voice control
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Power front seats with memory
- AIRSCARF neck-level heating
- 64-color ambient interior lighting
- Available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system
- Available head-up display
- Available heated and ventilated front seats
- Available adaptive cruise control
- Available surround-view camera system
The front seats are comfortable for longer drives, especially with the roof down. Rear seats are more appropriate for children or occasional short trips than for regular adult passengers.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Dimension | CLE 300 / CLE 450 | AMG CLE 53 |
| Length | 191.0 in. | 191.0 in. |
| Width without mirrors | 73.3 in. | 76.2 in. |
| Height | 56.1 in. | 56.5 in. |
| Wheelbase | 112.8 in. | 113.2 in. |
| Front headroom | 40.2 in. | 40.2 in. |
| Rear headroom | 36.0 in. | 36.0 in. |
| Cargo capacity | 9.6 cu. ft. | 9.6 cu. ft. |
| Seating capacity | 4 | 4 |
The Cabriolet has a small trunk because of its roof mechanism. It can carry a few soft bags or groceries, but it is not well suited to bulky luggage. The Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe has a little more cargo space and is the better choice if open-top driving is not essential.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan is the more practical alternative for regular rear-seat use or larger luggage loads.
Exterior Design
The CLE Cabriolet has a long hood, two doors, and a folding fabric roof that preserves the car’s classic convertible profile. With the roof up, it has a clean coupe-like silhouette; with it lowered, it delivers the open-air experience buyers expect from a luxury cabriolet.
The CLE 450 adds AMG body styling and 19-inch wheels. The AMG CLE 53 has more aggressive bodywork, wider detailing, AMG wheels, and performance-specific visual cues. Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and make replacement tires more expensive.
Safety Features and Ratings
Standard and available safety features include:
- Active Brake Assist
- ATTENTION ASSIST driver monitoring
- Rearview camera
- LED lighting
- Available Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC
- Available Active Steering Assist
- Available Active Blind Spot Assist
- Available Active Lane Keeping Assist
- Available Active Lane Change Assist
- Available surround-view camera system
- Available Active Parking Assist
IIHS does not currently publish a crash-test rating page specifically for the current Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet. Buyers should check the latest IIHS and NHTSA records for the exact vehicle before purchase.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The CLE Cabriolet has turbocharged engines, mild-hybrid systems, a power soft-top mechanism, and advanced electronics. It will generally cost more to maintain and repair than a mainstream convertible, especially after the factory warranty ends.
The CLE 300 has the lowest entry price and the least powerful engine. The CLE 450 adds a more complex inline-six, while the AMG CLE 53 has performance tires, brakes, suspension parts, and higher insurance costs.
Keep the roof clean and follow the manufacturer’s care guidance. When buying used, test its opening and closing operation, inspect seals for leaks or wind noise, and check the service history carefully.
| Coverage | Length |
| New Vehicle Limited Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Federal Emissions Warranty | Up to 8 years / 80,000 miles on selected components |
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Attractive four-seat convertible design
- Standard all-wheel drive
- AIRSCARF improves cool-weather roof-down comfort
- Strong CLE 450 inline-six performance
- Modern cabin technology
- Good fuel economy in CLE 300 and CLE 450 forms
- AMG CLE 53 adds strong performance hardware
What We Don’t Like
- High starting price
- Small 9.6-cubic-foot trunk
- Rear seats are tight and difficult to access
- Premium gasoline is required
- Fabric roof adds maintenance considerations
- No current IIHS crash-test rating page
- AMG running costs can be high
Competitors
The CLE Cabriolet competes with a small number of luxury convertibles:
- The BMW 4 Series Convertible is worth considering if driving engagement is your main priority.
- The Audi A5 Cabriolet is an alternative for buyers who want a quiet, understated luxury convertible.
- The BMW 2 Series Convertible is a smaller option for buyers who want a more compact open-top car.
- The Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe is the better choice if you prefer the same design with a slightly larger trunk and a fixed roof.
- The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a better daily-use choice if rear-seat access matters more than open-top driving.
Related Content
Before financing a CLE Cabriolet, read our guide to car loan preapproval and understand the difference between APR and interest rate on a car loan.
Used-car buyers should also read how to check a car’s accident history and how to read a VIN number before completing a purchase.
Should You Buy the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet if you want a premium convertible with standard all-wheel drive, a comfortable front cabin, and features that make open-top driving useful beyond the hottest months.
Choose the CLE 300 if you want the lowest price and best fuel economy. Choose the CLE 450 if you want the best combination of performance, comfort, and long-distance usability. Choose the AMG CLE 53 if you value sharper performance and accept the higher price and ownership costs.
Skip the CLE Cabriolet if you need regular rear-seat use, a large trunk, the lowest possible running costs, or the practicality of a fixed-roof sedan.
FAQs
How much does the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet cost?
The CLE Cabriolet starts from $69,400 MSRP for the CLE 300 4MATIC. The CLE 450 starts from $78,900, while the AMG CLE 53 starts from $85,700.
Does the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet have all-wheel drive?
Yes. The current U.S. CLE 300 and CLE 450 use 4MATIC all-wheel drive, while the AMG CLE 53 uses AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive.
How many seats does the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet have?
The CLE Cabriolet seats four passengers. Its rear seats are best for occasional use because access and space are limited.
How much horsepower does the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet have?
The CLE 300 has 255 horsepower, the CLE 450 has 375 horsepower, and the AMG CLE 53 has 443 horsepower.
Is the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet fast?
The CLE 300 reaches 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. The CLE 450 and AMG CLE 53 have manufacturer-claimed 0–60 mph times of 4.2 seconds.
What fuel economy does the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet get?
The CLE 300 returns 24 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. The CLE 450 is rated at 23 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, while the AMG CLE 53 returns 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Does the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet require premium gas?
Yes. Mercedes-Benz specifies premium unleaded gasoline for current CLE Cabriolet models.
How much trunk space does the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet have?
Every current CLE Cabriolet has 9.6 cubic feet of trunk space. The soft-top roof mechanism limits cargo room compared with the CLE Coupe.
What is AIRSCARF on the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet?
AIRSCARF is a neck-level heating system for the front seats. It sends warmed air around the occupants’ necks and shoulders to make roof-down driving more comfortable in cool weather.
Is the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet safe?
It offers a range of standard and available driver-assistance features. IIHS does not currently publish a dedicated crash-test rating page for the current CLE Cabriolet, so check the latest IIHS and NHTSA information for the exact vehicle before purchase.
What is the best Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet trim?
For most buyers, the CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet is the best trim because it has strong six-cylinder performance, standard all-wheel drive, and better long-distance ease than the CLE 300 without AMG-level ownership costs.
Final Verdict
The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet is a polished luxury convertible with a more usable four-seat layout than a traditional two-seat roadster. Its AIRSCARF system, all-wheel drive, and strong available inline-six make it a sensible open-top car for a wider range of weather and trips.
The CLE 450 4MATIC is the best fit for most buyers. It has the performance and refinement that a luxury convertible should offer, while avoiding the added cost and firmer character of the AMG CLE 53.
The trade-offs are unavoidable: small trunk, limited rear-seat use, high price, and premium-fuel costs. Buyers who accept those limitations for the open-top experience will find the CLE Cabriolet a strong choice.
Prices, specifications, fuel-economy ratings, safety results, and feature availability can change by trim, model year, and market.