2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE300 4Matic coupe

Mercedes-Benz has never shied away from reinventing itself, especially when it comes to its elegant coupes. From the iconic SEC of the 1980s to the modern S-Class Coupe, and the revolutionary CLS that arguably invented the “four-door coupe” segment in the early 2000s, the Stuttgart-based automaker has long combined athletic design with high-end luxury and cutting-edge technology. Fast forward to 2025, and the brand is simplifying its coupe portfolio under a new badge: CLE.

The CLE-Class steps in to replace both the two-door versions of the C-Class and E-Class. This move reduces lineup complexity while creating a more refined, all-encompassing coupe that draws from the strengths of both its predecessors. While the market for traditional coupes may be shrinking, the CLE proves there's still room for emotional, tech-forward design in a world increasingly dominated by SUVs.

We’ve already reviewed the 2024 CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet, which impressed with its convertible character and quiet confidence. But how does the hardtop coupe version compare? Here’s what we found.

What is it?

At its core, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe is a sleek, mid-size two-door luxury coupe that marries the agility of the C-Class Coupe with the maturity and poise of the E-Class Coupe. By merging these two models into one, Mercedes-Benz has simplified buyer choices, but also set a higher bar for refinement and performance. The “CLE” designation is entirely new for 2024 and 2025, and there will be a full range of variants — from this base CLE 300, the AMG CLE 53, and the rumored V8-powered AMG CLE 63.

The coupe rides on the MRA II platform shared with the latest C-Class and E-Class sedans. In this application, it stretches slightly longer than the old C-Class Coupe but is lower and more athletic than the E-Class ever was. The result is a coupe that feels less cramped than you’d expect but still engaging to drive.

And yes, despite the coupe body style, it features standard 4MATIC all-wheel-drive — a major plus in Canadian conditions from coast-to-coast.

What’s New for 2025?

The CLE Coupe was introduced as a 2024 model, so 2025 brings only modest changes. Mercedes has refined the MBUX infotainment interface, and there are a few new interior colour options and updated trims. Safety systems now integrate more smoothly with the semi-autonomous features, and wireless charging is now standard across all trims in Canada.

Under the skin, the CLE 300 continues to use the turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-four with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The system has been slightly retuned for smoother transitions between electric boost and engine torque, especially noticeable in stop-and-go traffic.

Exterior Styling

The CLE Coupe might just be one of the most balanced designs Mercedes has penned in recent years. It’s not as extroverted as the AMG GT or CLS, but that’s part of its appeal. There’s a timeless quality to its proportions — the long hood, the short rear overhang, and the sweeping roofline create a sense of motion even at a standstill.

From the front, it’s immediately recognizable as a Mercedes-Benz coupe, with the signature diamond grille and digital LED headlights that look sharp without feeling overstyled. From the rear, it’s understated but wide, thanks to the horizontal LED taillights and subtly integrated exhaust outlets.

In our test car, finished in Obsidian Black with the optional AMG Line package, the CLE looked especially handsome. The 20-inch AMG wheels filled the arches perfectly, and the black accents didn’t overpower the clean design.

This is the kind of coupe you can confidently drive to a boardroom meeting, then take to the Sea-to-Sky for a weekend getaway — looking equally at home in both scenarios all-year round.

Cabin Technology and Interior

Step inside, and the CLE Coupe continues the Mercedes-Benz tradition of fusing artistry with innovation. The layout is familiar from the latest C-Class and E-Class sedans but tailored for a more intimate, driver-focused experience.

A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is joined by an 11.9-inch vertical central touchscreen. Together, they’re powered by the latest MBUX software, which now includes more advanced voice recognition, customizable display themes, and an updated AI-based assistant that learns user preferences. We found the system quick to respond, though the sheer number of menus can be overwhelming at first.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, as do heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a 360-degree camera system. Optional upgrades include ventilated and massaging seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a superb Burmester 3D surround sound system that adds true theatre-quality audio to the cabin.

I was particularly thrilled to see the continuous inclusion of the motorized seatbelt extenders (aka feeders), something that has been a Mercedes-Benz “staple” in most of their coupes since the 1980’s.

Material quality is top-shelf. Even in the base trim, the dashboard and door panels are soft-touch, and the seat upholstery feels properly premium. Ambient lighting — now a signature Mercedes trait — adds 64 colours to match your mood. One of the nicest surprises? The quietness of the cabin. Mercedes clearly invested in sound insulation, making this coupe whisper-quiet at highway speeds.

Touchscreen usability is good, though not perfect. The lack of a rotary controller or physical shortcut buttons means you rely heavily on the screen while driving. And the fingerprint scanner (used to load individual driver profiles) sometimes didn’t register quickly — a small annoyance in an otherwise well-sorted cabin.

The rear seats are comfortable enough for two adults, provided they’re of average height. Of notable mention is how well the rear cabin is finished, from the door panels, to the Burmester rear speaker covers to the rear air vents. Despite being a coupe and the fact that the rear seats will likely be only occasionally used, Mercedes-Benz didn’t skimp on the accoutrements.

Rear trunk space is acceptable, good enough for one full-sized check-in, a carry-on suitcase, and a couple of large backpacks.

Under the Hood

The 2025 CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. That’s not overwhelming by sports car standards, but the 48-volt mild hybrid system adds up to 23 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of electric boost when needed, such as during low-speed acceleration or quick lane changes.

This system not only smooths out the stop-start function but also enables short bursts of electric assist that improve real-world responsiveness. Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, the power delivery feels linear, with enough urgency to satisfy most daily drivers.

Fuel economy is rated at roughly 9.5L/100 km combined in Canadian conditions. On my day-to-day commute over the week, I averaged a very 8.5L/100 km fuel consumption figure, with heavy use of the “Eco” drive mode and its “Coasting” function. This is extremely impressive for an all-wheel-drive luxury coupe.

How Does It Drive?

Driving the CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe is more about finesse than fury. It’s a car that rewards smooth inputs and unhurried appreciation. The steering is well-weighted, surprisingly quick, and definitely accurate, though not overly communicative. The suspension, even with the AMG package, leans toward comfort — absorbing bumps with grace but remaining composed in corners.

On Vancouver’s rain-slicked streets, the 4MATIC system delivered confident traction without drama. Puddles, light gravel, and uneven pavement were handled with Germanic assurance. On winding roads, there’s enough grip and poise to enjoy a spirited drive, though this car is clearly tuned more for gran turismo cruising than apex hunting.

The brake feel is progressive, though a bit soft at initial pedal tip-in. And while the four-cylinder turbocharged engine sounds refined, it doesn’t offer much aural excitement — even in Sport mode. Hopefully the true AMG CLE-models rectify that. That said, the smoothness and torque from the mild hybrid assist make for a surprisingly responsive experience, especially in urban traffic.

One quirk we noticed: there was no lane centering assist on my test vehicle, despite it being quite heavily optioned and having all of the other driver assist features. This is a bit odd considering the over $85,000 sticker price of the CLE300.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4MATIC Coupe is exactly what a modern luxury coupe should be — elegant, confident, and packed with tech, without shouting for attention. It’s not a tire-shredding AMG beast, but it doesn’t need to be. This is a car for professionals who appreciate craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and a serene driving experience.

There are cheaper coupes, and there are faster ones, but few blend comfort, style, and technology with such confidence. If you’re someone who laments the loss of classic two-door luxury cars, the CLE is your answer — not retro, but reborn for today’s world.

5 Key Takeaways

1. The CLE Coupe replaces both C-Class and E-Class coupes, offering a refined balance of styling, size, comfort, and performance.

2. Standard 4MATIC all-wheel-drive makes it a strong option for Canadian weather conditions year-round.

3. MBUX infotainment and driver assistance tech are among the best in the segment, though not without minor quirks.

4. Mild hybrid powertrain adds real-world torque and smoothness, even if the car isn't a performance hero.

5. A true luxury coupe for the tech-savvy professional, with elegant design and a surprisingly practical interior.