With the market for convertibles shrinking, Mercedes-Benz is reportedly preparing for a bold move in the soft-top four-seater segment. A new model, allegedly called the CLE, was spied testing on the Nürburgring and is expected to arrive in 2022, eventually replacing the C-Class and E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet models. Camouflaged prototypes of the model were thought to be the C-Class Cabrio previously but our spy photographers came up with new information revealing the CLE name. The model was benchmarked against the current E-Class Cabrio which indicates that Mercedes wants it to be an indirect successor.
This time, a camouflaged CLE was spotted
in cabriolet form, but it is also expected with a proper two-door coupe
bodystyle. The CLE will reportedly share its underpinnings with the upcoming
C-Class, including the powertrain options. However, the body will be completely
redesigned with unique lighting units and body panels, two doors, and a sloping
roofline leading to a sexier tail.
The model will compete with the BMW 4 Series and the Audi A5, both of which are offered as coupes and soft-top convertibles. A four-door coupe variant similar to the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe and the Audi A5 Sportback is also likely to follow in the future, slotting between the CLA and the CLS with similar styling.
The Mercedes-Benz CLE is expected to
launch in Europe, sometime in 2022. Unfortunately, as confirmed by
Mercedes-Benz USA CEO Nicholas Speeks, the successor of the C-Class and E-Class
convertible and coupe models won’t be offered in the US market.
