For comparative purposes, I went from a 2020 AMG C43 to the 2024 CLE 450. Let's start with why I made the switch... - The CLE just hits you as being sexy yet sophisticated. It's gorgeous inside and out (and way better looking in person). - It's also a more comfortable city car when you come upon the unavoidable pot holes and other rough streets. But it's still got enough power when you need it. - The cockpit feels so dang welcoming. The tech is great to be sure (intelligent cruise and lane control, intelligent parking, heads up display, etc etc.) but it's the ergonomics of the entire driving experience that really did it for me. The chairs are snug without being restricting (and only the CLE has this seat design). The dash is clean and elegant. Though yes, some people will yearn for the super display from the E-class, which I can understand. - The 450's inline 6 was all the power I needed on the streets and highways. And the transmission is buttery smooth in comfort, but can get you that increased response in sport (or manual sport). That said, this is no AMG. And I'm fine with not spending the several thousand more for the upgraded six. I'm not driving on tracks or racing through winding highways at high speeds. And I don't need everyone around to hear me coming. And I don't miss the stiff suspension on the AMG. Some people want the response and feel. And for those people, definitely upgrade to the CLE53 (or wait for the 63). For the rest of us that want a luxury and comfort 90% of the time, but need enough kick to outrun the vast majority on the road when the need arises, and do it in an absolutely gorgeous vehicle... then this is the one!

Safety: 5 out of 5 stars

Technology: 5 out of 5 stars

Performance: 5 out of 5 stars

Interior: 5 out of 5 stars

Comfort: 5 out of 5 stars

Value: 4 out of 5 stars

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Understated Elegance

Mark f, 09/20/2024

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE CLE 450 4MATIC 2dr Coupe AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A)

3 of 3 people found this review helpful

This is my 8th MB, and my third MB Coupe, going back some 50 years. As a design oriented person, I have always loved bigger Mercedes coupes, and this car harkens back to the SLs of the 50s with it's hood bulges and elegant lines. It is a supremely comfortable ride that is smooth as silk with the straight six engine; coupled with some hard edge performance when you hustle it along. From a design perspective, the lines flow gracefully into a distinctive shape that is among the best looking coupes out there. The car is amazingly easy on gas, and the highway ride at speed is phenomenal. This is a key introduction for MB, and they have hit a Home Run at a time when they really needed a superior car to attract customers. This is the most appealing car in their lineup, and great looking coupes have become truly rare, so it is most welcome.