When Mercedes invited us to experience their new CLE 300 convertible — I was both thrilled and apprehensive. The monsoon was in full swing, and I have a peculiar track record: every time I drive a convertible, the rain seems to follow. This time, luck was on my side as a rare sunny day in Pune broke through the clouds, setting the perfect scene for a drive in this elegant open-top machine.
Now the German brand has long been committed to the four-seater convertible. Unlike rivals who have moved away from this segment, Mercedes combined their E-Class Cabriolet with the C-Class to birth the CLE. The result? A stunning convertible that delivers the essence of open-top driving. With clear skies overhead, I hit the roads of Pune, basking in the experience while dodging construction zones and Pune’s famously pothole-ridden streets.
Top up or down, the CLE’s design shines. It’s sporty yet refined, featuring a profile reminiscent of the outgoing E-Class while borrowing from the C-Class at the rear. The AMG Line trim we tested adds sporty touches, including 19-inch AMG wheels, a sleek fabric roof, and sharp lines that lend it a purposeful stance. The fabric roof, a design choice some might debate, has a charm of its own and adds a bit of nostalgia for classic convertibles. I personally prefer this fabric top over the over-engineered hard metal folding roofs. The prominent grille and refined, clean bodywork give the CLE an unmistakable look of sophistication. To watch this roof fold is like watching origami in motion.
Once out of the city, it was time to lower the roof and embrace the full cabriolet experience. Fortunately, it was effortless with a physical button in the centre console. In under 20 seconds, the roof folds seamlessly into the trunk, even while the car’s moving at up to 60 kph. Pulling off this manoeuvre at a stoplight drew curious glances from passersby — a true testament to the car’s head-turning appeal.
The open-top design lets you take in the meticulously crafted interior from the outside. Standout details include two beautifully integrated Burmester speakers on the roof deck, which enhance both aesthetics and acoustics.
Once seated, the car greets you with a digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch centre infotainment screen, which offers various customisable modes, including a vivid Sport setting that turns the dials and ambient lighting red. A thoughtful touch: a quick button press allows you to adjust the screen angle to combat sun glare, a handy feature for top-down drives on bright days.
In typical cabriolet style, the car is 2+2 seating configuration is best suited for short jaunts in the rear seats, though they do include A/C vents for comfort. Up front, the Mercedes MBUX system operates fluidly, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionalities. While the tech is familiar to other models, the materials and finishings are decidedly high-end. Every surface feels as luxurious as you’d expect at this price point, striking the perfect balance of form and function.
Surprisingly, the trunk space is adequate even with the roof down, accommodating a couple of duffel bags or a small carry-on. For golfers, there’s even enough room to stow a golf bag. Now here is one innovative ‘Airscarf’ feature—a heating vent near the headrest—keeps you toasty on chilly days, allowing you to enjoy top-down driving even when the temperature dips.
Under the hood, the car boasts a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and a mild 48V hybrid system. With 255 bhp and 40.78 kgm, it hits 100 kph in a brisk 6.6 seconds. While this may not be a performance beast, the car is designed for smooth, leisurely cruises rather than tire-shredding acceleration. Throttle response is linear and refined, with the nine-speed gearbox delivering seamless shifts that make it a joy to drive both in town and on the open road.
On highways, where the car truly shines, the car remains planted, providing a rewarding experience at moderate speeds. Even while cruising at 80 kph, the sensation feels faster, amplified by the open-top format. The engine is also remarkably fuel-efficient, delivering between 9-12 kpl per litre, which is impressive for a car in this category. Mercedes has calibrated the car to deliver smooth power delivery with practical performance, making it a good choice for those seeking elegance with a bit of thrill courtesy of the open-top experience.
Despite being a convertible, the car manages to deliver a comfortable and reasonably compliant ride, absorbing most of Pune’s smaller potholes. Only larger, more rugged patches disturb the cabin, reminding you of the sporty side of its suspension setup. On well-paved roads, the ride is smooth and stable, ensuring a pleasant drive whether the top is up or down.
The car’s low-slung profile and weight distribution contribute to its balanced handling. Though it lacks the sharpness of a true sports car, it feels composed and confident, with responsive steering that lets you take on winding roads with ease. For those more interested in cruising than cornering, the car offers a laid-back drive that’s perfect for leisurely weekends or spirited outings.
In today’s world of manifesting-dreams, I was reminded of a commercial I’d seen a few years ago for the E-Class convertible. The ad featured a dog happily riding in the passenger seat, head out and ears flapping in the breeze, showing the car as an ideal choice for pet lovers. It was a beautifully crafted moment that stuck with me, and I couldn’t resist recreating it with the car. I reached out to a close friend who owns three adorable Golden Retrievers, and we took them for a joyride with the top down. The dogs were thrilled and a bit curious, enjoying the fresh air and the freedom of an open-top ride. Their excitement shone through in the photos we captured, showcasing the convertible as the perfect car for not just driving, but making some memories with friends — furry or otherwise.
The Mercedes CLE 300 is definitely not your everyday car. It’s a reward for a week of hard work, a vehicle that embodies freedom and indulgence. With a price tag of around ` 1.1 crore, the car isn’t aimed at the mass market; it’s a luxury treat for those who value the journey as much as the destination.
In a world increasingly dominated by practicality, the convertible stands out as a reminder of the pure joy of driving. Whether you’re a pet lover eager to share the experience or simply a fan of open-top motoring, this car offers a blend of style, comfort, and excitement that only a convertible can. For those ready to invest in the convertible lifestyle, the CLE 300 promises unforgettable drives under the open sky.
AUTODATA
Mercedes-Benz CLE 300POWERTRAIN
Displacement:
Max Power:
Max Torque:
Transmission:
1999cc, inline-four
255 bhp @ 5800 rpm
40.78 kgm @ 2000 rpm
9-speed AT
TYRES
F: 245/40/R 19
R: 275/35/R 19
DIMENSIONS
L/W/H (mm):
Wheelbase:
Ground Clearance:
Kerb Weight:
Fuel Capacity:
4850/1861/1423
2865 mm
NA
1985 kg
PRICE
Rs 1.10 Crore (ex-showroom, India)
