2026 Mercedes-Benz CLE450 Cabriolet: It’s Great—If You Pick the Right Roads

Mercedes-Benz’s 2026 CLE450 4Matic Cabriolet arrives as a grand-touring convertible built for long stretches of highway and lazy coastal drives, not twisty backroads.

The car’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine delivers 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, paired exclusively with a 9-speed automatic transmission and a column-mounted shifter—both of which remain among the best in the business.

Mercedes also equips the CLE450 with a mild-hybrid system, returning over 30 MPG on premium fuel, a practical boon for road-trippers wary of the pump’s bite.

The cabin is roomier than the outgoing C-Class Cabriolet’s, with a familiar but refined interior design that prioritizes comfort over flash.

The convertible top drops quickly and quietly, and the car’s long 14-inch wheelbase soaks up highway imperfections with ease, though its suspension struggles on Savannah’s notoriously rough streets.

The CLE450’s ride is quieter and more composed than many rivals, but its non-AMG suspension lacks the suppleness of pricier Mercedes models like the Maybach GLS.

Pricing starts at $78,750 (including destination), with an as-tested figure of $91,345 for the well-equipped example tested.

The CLE450 Cabriolet is a compelling choice for those who value effortless cruising over razor-sharp handling, but it’s not a car that will charm everyone—especially those seeking a sportier alternative like the AMG CLE53.

The CLE450’s identity crisis—luxury grand tourer or sporty convertible?—leaves it in a gray area, where its strengths are undeniable but its purpose feels slightly muddled.