As automakers strive to maximise their efficiency, the number of platforms and even the models riding on top of them are dropping, unless we’re talking about the ever-more-popular SUVs. And one of the upcoming examples of this is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLE, which is expected to replace both the E-Class and C-Class Coupe and Cabriolet.
The three-pointed star’s rich two-door tradition means the company can simply revive an old trick for this new release. That’s because, back in the late 90s, Mercedes released the CLK coupe and cabriolet, which featured E-Class styling and goodies, while borrowing the mechanical side of the C-Class.
Returning to the CLE, the heavy camouflage that continues to cover these prototypes can’t conceal one thing: the focus on corporate identity—it’s getting more and more difficult to tell the various models of a premium German carmaker apart (not just Mercedes) based on design features.
Nevertheless, as proven by previous spy media, the CLE Coupe will be accompanied by a Cabriolet version making use of a soft top.
Multiple prototypes are testing at the Nurburgring
Test vehicles for the upcoming model are now in their advanced stages. And you can see multiple prototypes in the spy video below (lens tip to CarSpyMedia), which portrays the fixed-roof prototypes undergoing high-velocity testing at the Nurburgring—perhaps you’d prefer to check out a $5 million Pagani Huayra BC blitzing the infamous German toll road.
Note that some of the cars sport yellow stickers, which signal the presence of electrified hardware—this is mostly a safety measure for emergency responders, who need to be aware of the vehicle’s hardware in case an intervention is required.
Speaking of engines, the CLE is expected to inherit the full range of powertrains from the C-Class. And since the current fifth-gen model, which only entered production last year, is powered exclusively by four-cylinder units, albeit with varying degrees of electrification, you know what to expect for the CLE.
However, that’s not to say the AMG models will be short on power. After all, the Germans couldn’t ask customer of the Mercedes-AMG C63, whose unveiling will come later this year, to give up on the twin-turbo V8 might for half the cylinders without throwing some serious firepower into the mix.
The CLE 63 will be a hybrid monster. A turbo-four hybrid monster, that is
As such, the 2023 AMG C 63, which has yet to be revea and CLE 63 will employ an M139 inline-4 featuring an electric turbo that will do away with turbo lag. In addition, there will be a rear-mounted e-motor sporting a two-speed transmission. The overall output of the system is expected to sit above 500 hp (the old V8 model topped at 503 hp), but no official figure has landed yet.
The Mercedes-Benz CLE is expected to land within the next twelve months, probably as a 2023 model. However, if you’re willing to zoom in further on this Benz, this video rendering of the CLE 63, which aims to be as accurate as possible, should be of service.
