Consolidating 2 Into 1: Why The Mercedes-Benz CLE Exists

Mercedes-Benz took a daring step by consolidating two products into one – the C- and E-Class cabriolet and coupé are now the CLE. We delve into why this strategic decision makes sense.

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If you’ve kept an eye on Mercedes-Benz’s line-up, whether globally or locally, you would have noticed that the C-Class and E-Class coupé and cabriolet models have been discontinued. Although, they do exist but in a different form because the CLE-Class has arrived as a single replacement for both. It then begs the question: why would Mercedes-Benz go about merging two models? Especially when they have such a rich history in luxury coupés and convertibles.

The simplest reason for this change is that the market has shifted. Coupés and cabriolets used to be the cars dreams were made of, but these days they have become just that for many: a dream. Over the past decade or two, SUVs and crossovers became the go-to vehicles as consumers opted for higher seating positions, more space, and greater versatility. This change in trend left two-door sports cars to occupy an increasingly niche space.

Related: Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé and Cabriolet Review

But like all carmakers, Mercedes-Benz is constantly rethinking its product line-up, and the strategies concerning the portfolio are in a constant adjustment phase. Developing and producing a C-Class and E-Class in both coupé and cabriolet body styles wasn’t just expensive, it also didn’t make as much sense (anymore) when the target audience was shrinking. By merging the two into the CLE, Mercedes keeps its footprint in the segment while making production more cost-efficient and streamlined.

In our side-by-side report on the CLE coupé and cabriolet, we noted:

“For the most part, this suitably sleek pair of modern two-door Mercedes-Benz products complete their mandate of bridging the gap between the previously available C-Class Coupé and Cabriolet and the extended E-Class family. Like the last E-Class Coupé that was already built on W204 C-Class underpinnings, the CLE siblings do feel closer to the modern C-Class in terms of perceived build quality, dynamics and interior appointments than they do to the newer, altogether more sophisticated and arguably better built E-Class family.”

Image: Melissa Breedt

Spirit of the Convertible

Let’s be honest – convertibles are becoming an endangered species. The days when every premium brand had a two-door drop-top in its line-up are long gone as fewer people opt for convertibles due to their higher price tags, compromised practicality, and niche appeal. Yet, Mercedes still believes in the romance of open-top motoring, which is why the CLE Cabriolet exists.

The new CLE soft-top convertible has features designed to make the driving experience enjoyable all year round. On cool days (think winter), the AIRSCARF system blows warm air around your neck, and AIRCAP reduces wind turbulence inside the cabin when the top is down. These clever touches may be small, but make the CLE, in convertible guise, a car that can be enjoyed in all seasons.

Ultimately, the CLE doesn’t just borrow elements from its predecessors but takes cues from Mercedes-Benz’s entire modern line-up and gathers them in one basket. The sleek lines are combined with an elegant front end, and the muscular proportions add a genuine luxury presence. By merging the two-door C- and E-Class into one, Merc has avoided unnecessary duplication while still delivering an overall design that feels unmistakably premium.

But there is a caveat with the cabriolet, which we highlighted in our report:

“While there’s been a concerted effort to reinforce the CLE Cabriolet’s structure to compensate for the absence of a fixed roof, a resultant weight penalty of around 130 kg compared with the 1 715 kg Coupé fitted with the same powertrain, together with a still noticeable amount of scuttle shake through the car’s body, means we’re inclined to “keep it simple” and opt for the CLE 200 in this application – even if the difference in the asking price to the 300 is only R60 000.”

Image: Peet Mocke

Was The Merger The Right Call?

Merging the C- and E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet into the CLE-Class was a logical decision. It streamlines Mercs’ line-up, cuts production costs, and delivers a single, well-rounded luxury coupé. In an era where SUVs dominate and coupés struggle, this move ensures that those who still appreciate a sleek two-door Mercedes have a compelling option without unnecessary redundancy. But will the CLE be as beloved as its predecessors? That remains to be seen.

The cabriolet and coupé variants of the previous C- and E-Class each had their loyal followings, and not every buyer will be happy about the change. Some might miss the sharper dynamics of the C-Class, while others might wish for the grander presence of the E-Class. That said, if the CLE’s arrival helps keep luxury coupés and convertibles alive for a little while longer, then Mercedes-Benz may just have made the right call.

Image: Fanie van Niekerk

Mercedes-Benz CLE Pricing

• Mercedes-Benz CLE 200 Coupé AMG Line – R1 366 265
• Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Coupé 4Motion AMG Line – R1 443 076
• Mercedes-Benz CLE 200 Cabriolet AMG Line – R1 527 271
• Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Cabriolet AMG Line – R1 587 251

Prices include a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

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