MERCEDES-BENZ CLE CABRIOLET

Convertible follows coupé to complete newly consolidated two-door range

- SAM PHILLIPS 

TESTED 14.4.24, TENERIFE, SPAIN ON SALE NOW

Mercedes-Benz decided to consolidate its development and spending on traditional ICE cars in favour of newstyle electric ones, leading to the demise of the C-Class and E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet models and a new CLE pairing to fill the void.

The CLE Coupé arrived in the UK a few months back, and now we're meeting the CLE Cabriolet on the picturesque island of Tenerife.

Aerodynamics played a key role in the CLE Cabriolet's development: the fabric roof was extensively tested in Mercedes' wind tunnel to improve airflow over the cabin and reduce buffeting and wind noise inside. The soft top was tested at speeds of up to 155mph to ensure that even if wind loads deformed it at top speed, it wouldn't twist or flex.

The attention to detail seems to have paid off: with the roof up at back-road cruising speeds, the CLE Cabriolet is very quiet and refined, giving it a luxurious feel. Wind noise increases at higher speeds, but the difference is impressively slight.