The successor to both the C-Class Coupe and the E-Class Coupe, the Mercedes-Benz CLE (C236) has arrived in Malaysia and it is previewed ahead of its imminent launch. Already launched in Europe, the CLE previewed in Malaysia is specifically the Mercedes-Benz CLE300 4MATIC. For now, it comes with an estimated price of RM526,000.
Replacing the C-Class and E-Class Coupe, the Mercedes-Benz CLE measures 4,850 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and 1,428 mm tall. Its wheelbase measures 2,865 mm long. It is longer and lower than both the C-Class and E-Class coupe, so the CLE name is rather appropriate since it leans towards being an E-Class.
The front end draws an uncanny resemblance to the CLA, especially with the shape of the headlights (the cluster does defer though and the CLE utilizes the brand’s Digital Light technology). CLA similarities aside, the CLE does have decent proportions and a domineering appearance.
One thing that may bother fans of Mercedes-Benz’s midsize coupe is the introduction of the B-Pillar. The E-Class Coupe made do without this, but the C-Class Coupe had it. The lack of the B-Pillar in the E-Class coupe and many older Mercedes-Benz mid-size coupes gave the car its signature look. With the windows down, you had a clean opening which was quite the head-turner. That aside, the CLE is still a decent-looking car.
Powering the Mercedes-Benz CLE300 4MATIC is a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that makes a rated output of 258 hp (metric) and 400 Nm. The mild hybrid srive system provides an additional power boost and 23 hp (metric) and 205 Nm. It does 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds onward to a top speed of 250 km/h. the transmission in use is the Mercedes-Benz 9G-Tronic automatic transmission.
Inside, the cabin mirrors that of the W206 Mercedes-Benz C-Class with the large portrait head unit and the floating digital instrument cluster. Naturally, the head unit is powered by the latest MBUX system. The air conditioning vents and centre console design are very similar to the W206 C-Class. You get the typical Mercedes-Benz treatment which includes the brand-signature ambient lighting and covered cubby spaces on the centre console.
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Driving assistance packages available for the CLE include Active Distance DISTRONIC, intersection approach function, active steering assist, active lane change assist, active emergency stop assist, active brake assist, avoidance steering assist, active lane keeping assist, active blind spot assist, PRE-SAFE Plus, and PRE-SAFE Impulse Side. The final specifications of the CLE for the Malaysian market have yet to be confirmed.
GALLERY
