The era of convertibles seems to be waning, but Mercedes-Benz is proving that the allure of open-top driving is far from dead. The German luxury automaker has introduced the CLE Cabriolet, a stylish four-seater convertible that aims to fill the void left by the discontinuation of other convertible models in the Mercedes lineup.
One standout feature of the CLE Cabriolet is its special leather seats designed to combat the scorching summer heat. Mercedes has equipped these seats with a unique coating that reflects the sun's near-infrared rays, ensuring a more comfortable experience for passengers even in the hottest weather. In tests conducted by the company, the coated seats were found to be up to 53.6 degrees Fahrenheit cooler in direct sunlight compared to seats without the protective coating.
The CLE Cabriolet, positioned below the more expensive SL model, boasts generous dimensions, measuring 191.0 inches in length, 73.2 inches in width, and 56.0 inches in height, with a substantial wheelbase of 112.8 inches. Despite its convertible nature, the car offers practicality with a cargo area capable of holding up to 13.5 cubic feet. However, this volume decreases to 10.4 cubic feet when the fabric roof is folded. For added convenience, the rear seats have a 60:40 split and can be easily folded using buttons in the trunk.
The convertible top itself is a multi-layer acoustic soft top, available in black, red, or grey. The top takes just 20 seconds to raise or lower and can be operated at speeds of up to 37 mph. Additionally, the car features a powered roller divider to separate the folded fabric top from the luggage area.
To enhance the open-top driving experience, Mercedes has included some signature features in the CLE Cabriolet. The Airscarf vent, embedded into the front headrests, blows warm air to keep occupants' necks comfortable on chilly days. The electrically deployable Aircap system redirects airflow above the windshield, and an automatic wind deflector behind the rear seats minimizes turbulence.
While the CLE Cabriolet has yet to be announced for the United States, it has already made its debut in Germany with a starting price of €66,402, rising to €88,357 for the six-cylinder model. As Mercedes-Benz continues to evolve its lineup, the CLE Cabriolet stands out as a stylish and technologically advanced convertible, offering both comfort and performance for those who still appreciate the joy of open-air driving.
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