Mercedes CLE breaks cover

Details revealed of coupé and cabrio replacement for E-Class and C-Class two-doors

- GREG KABLE

The Mercedes-Benz CLE is a sleek new two-door model that acts as an indirect replacement for the C-Class and E-Class coupés - and will be one of the German firm's final combustion cars.

Set for UK sale by the end of this year, it forms part of Mercedes' efforts to consolidate its ICE line-up as it ramps up investment in new electric models. The CLE will be sold initially in coupé form only, but a soft-top cabriolet is planned for 2024.

The BMW 4 Series rival is based on Mercedes' MRA platform and shares many components - including its hybrid drivetrains, electrical architecture, MBUX infotainment and interior elements - with the current C-Class and E-Class saloons. It is also styled to closely match those two cars.

At 4850mm in length, the CLE is longer than both of the cars it replaces, but its 2865mm wheelbase is between the two.