2027 Mercedes-Benz CLE-ClassMotorTrendElegant exteriordesignLuxurious and refinedTop-down driving enjoymentTouchscreenexcessMore soft thansportyWaitingfor AMG V-8Mercedes-Benz used to offer a range of two-door models, but the CLE arrived in 2024 to take the place of the C-Class and E-Class coupe and convertible. The CLE is available with a fixed or folding fabric roof, from the base engine to the high-performance AMG version.Sporty, luxurious coupe rivals to the CLE-Class include the BMW 4 Series, Chevrolet Corvette, and Ford Mustang.What's NewNo major changes are expected to the primary CLE Coupe and Cabriolet for 2027. However, a new high-performance model could be introduced—the V-8-powered AMG CLE63 might arrive this year.AdvertisementAdvertisementThis page will be updated with more insights and photos as information becomes available.What We ThinkMercedes may not build as many coupes as it once did, but the CLE-Class is a reminder that the brand still knows how to make a great two-door.Elegant, sleek looks get sharper with the AMG version. Unsurprisingly, that AMG is the most rewarding to drive, pairing strong acceleration with sharp steering and impressive braking.That performance doesn't come at the expense of daily comfort, either. Power delivery is mostly smooth, though the stop/start system can hesitate. Even so, the suspension remains compliant enough that the firmer Sport setting is easy to live with.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe CLE also proves more useful than its two-door layout and mediocre fuel economy might suggest. Trunk space is generous, and although the roof is low, legroom is surprisingly good. The digital displays are crisp and easy to use. Mercedes also offers plenty of upscale options for a more luxurious feel.Coupes and convertibles don't make much sense as do-it-all daily drivers, but the CLE-Class is a strong option for living the two-door lifestyle.Top-Ranked Competitors:BMW 4 SeriesFord MustangMazda MiataChevrolet CorvetteMotorTrend TestedEvery CLE engine uses a 48-volt mild hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmission. Although the chassis is rear-drive based, all models are equipped with 4Matic all-wheel drive.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe base CLE300 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is estimated at 6.2 seconds.Stepping up to the CLE450 brings a turbocharged 3.0-liter I-6 making 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. That reduces the 0–60-mph run down to 4.1 seconds.In the AMG CLE53, that turbocharged 3.0-liter I-6 is tuned to pump out 443 hp and 414 lb-ft of torque, cutting the 0–60-mph sprint down to about 3.7 seconds.MPGs and RangeFuel economy for the I-4-powered CLE300 is rated at 24/33 mpg city/highway; driving range on a full tank of gas is 470 miles. With its larger I-6 engine, the CLE450 gets 23/33 mpg and about 450 miles of driving range.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe more powerful CLE53 is less efficient, getting 20/27 mpg and 400 miles of driving range. These figures are for Coupe models; CLE Convertible models get about 1 mpg less in each measure.Safety and Driver Assist FeaturesStandard FeaturesMercedes includes front automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beams, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and driver attention monitoring on every CLE-Class.Available FeaturesThe optional Driver Assistance package adds adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, automated lane change assist, emergency evasive steering assist, and intersection collision mitigation.Cargo Space and Interior RoomInterior space in the 2024 Ascent compares favorably to the Toyota Highlander. As is typical in this segment, however, the third row feels tight.AdvertisementAdvertisementLegroom (front/rear)Cargo Space (seats up/down)TechnologyInfotainmentAll CLE models are equipped with a 12.3-inch reconfigurable driver display and 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with built-in navigation. A wireless charging pad and three USB-C ports are included. Multicolor ambient lighting brightens the cabin.Sound SystemEvery CLE has a 17-speaker Burmester audio system. Dolby Atmos digital processing and Apple Spatial Audio are included on higher-end models.Available UpgradesThe CLE is offered with a head-up display, additional USB-C ports, augmented reality navigation, and a 360-degree camera among its optional tech features.ValueStandard FeaturesPricing for the 2027 CLE300 Coupe starts at about $62,000; the Convertible version costs $8,500 more. Standard exterior features include black-painted 18-inch wheels, full LED lighting, and a power-operated trunk.AdvertisementAdvertisementInside, it gets heated and power-operated front seats, imitation leather upholstery, multicolor ambient lighting, Burmester audio, and an 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. The convertible model gets Mercedes' clever AirScarf headrest ventilation system for top-down comfort in cool weather.Recommended TrimThe CLE300 has most of the same standard equipment as the CLE450, just with a smaller engine. If higher performance is in order, it's best to skip the roughly $72,000 CLE450 and go straight to the $78,000 AMG CLE53.V-8 AMG CLE63 Coming?The I-6 engine in the CLE53 is quite good—arguably better than the hybrid four-cylinder situation in the AMG C63 sedan. But neither engine is as rowdy as a V-8, like older AMG models of this size offered.That'll change soon, though, as AMG has confirmed it's working on a new V-8 engine that will be available in the CLE. That vehicle will likely be badged CLE63 and pack approximately 600 hp. An even higher-performance limited edition CLE63 Mythos is also in AMG's plans. Watch for details on the new AMG CLE63 to be revealed in 2027.