A Mercedes-Benz CLE to compete with the BMW 4 Series Coupe?
By next year, Mercedes-Benz could consolidate the C-Class and E-Class coupes and convertibles into a single model which will be called KEY. Like BMW, which has separated its 4 Series from the 3 Series in terms of design and proportions, Mercedes-Benz will slide its CLE between a compact and an intermediate within its range. It is therefore a gross successor to the old Mercedes-Benz CLK.
This is the American media Car and Driver who captured the first images of a camouflaged prototype of the KEY on the road. Indeed, the vehicle appears to display the proportions of a luxury sports coupe type BMW’s 4 Series or Audi’s A5.
In all likelihood, the CLE will borrow its mechanical components from the next-generation C-Class, which is expected to be released in our market towards the end of next year. The CLE will arrive a few months later as a 2023 model. One would therefore expect the names CLE300 and CLE450, a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter turbocharged 6-cylinder.
Nothing is yet clear about a potential AMG variation of the CLE. However, given that BMW is offering the 4 Series convertible in the M4 grind, it wouldn’t be surprising to see its competitor from Stuttgart show up with something so fierce. More details about the Mercedes-Benz CLE 2023 will be confirmed in the coming months.
