Last updated August 4, 2026
The Mercedes-Benz CLE lineup starts with the CLE 300 4MATIC, the relaxed entry model for drivers who want the coupe’s sleek shape, four-seat cabin, upscale comfort, and standard all-wheel drive. The CLE 450 4MATIC is the stronger, sportier step-up, adding six-cylinder power, a firmer chassis setup, and AMG Line styling while keeping the same luxury-focused character.
The Base Model trim level, represented by the CLE 300 4MATIC, is the style-led and comfort-focused entry point to the CLE lineup.
Best for: Drivers who value elegant design, everyday comfort, upscale technology, and all-weather confidence more than stronger acceleration.
Highlights
The High Performance trim level, represented by the CLE 450 4MATIC, is the more athletic non-AMG CLE, with stronger acceleration and a sportier look and feel.
Best for: Drivers who want the CLE’s comfort and elegance with more power, sharper road manners, and performance-flavored styling.
Highlights
Steps up from the Base Model with a 375-hp turbocharged inline-six in place of the 255-hp four-cylinder, plus standard AMG Line styling and a sport-tuned suspension.
1 in stock| Feature | Base Model | High Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Includes | CLE 300 4MATIC6 in stock | CLE 450 4MATIC1 in stock |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo four-cylinder | 3.0L turbo inline-six |
| Horsepower | 255 hp | 375 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| City fuel economy | 23–24 mpg | 23 mpg |
| AMG Line styling | Not standard | Standard |
| Suspension character | Comfort-focused | Sport-tuned |
The regular CLE lineup consists of the CLE 300 4MATIC and CLE 450 4MATIC. Since the model’s 2024 launch, the CLE 300 has been the four-cylinder entry model, while the CLE 450 has used a stronger six-cylinder engine and sportier chassis tuning.
The main difference is performance. The CLE 300 has a 255-hp turbo four-cylinder, while the CLE 450 has a 375-hp turbo inline-six, sport-tuned suspension, and standard AMG Line styling. Both have all-wheel drive and a similarly upscale digital cabin.
The CLE 300 4MATIC uses a 255-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine with mild-hybrid assistance. It is the more relaxed entry point to the CLE range and comes with all-wheel drive.
The CLE 450 adds a 375-hp 3.0-liter turbo inline-six, sport-tuned suspension, and standard AMG Line exterior styling. It keeps the CLE 300’s luxury-focused cabin, all-wheel drive, touchscreen system, phone connectivity, and premium audio.
No. The CLE 450 is the stronger regular CLE trim, not a full Mercedes-AMG model. It does come with AMG Line styling and a sportier suspension, so its appearance and road feel are more athletic than the CLE 300’s.
4MATIC is Mercedes-Benz’s name for all-wheel drive. On the regular CLE lineup, both the CLE 300 4MATIC and CLE 450 4MATIC send power to all four wheels rather than only the front or rear wheels.
The CLE 300 is the more natural fit for relaxed everyday use. It keeps the CLE’s all-wheel drive, digital cabin, heated memory seats, premium audio, and grand-touring character while using the less powerful 255-hp four-cylinder engine.
The CLE 450 is the clear choice for stronger acceleration. Its 375-hp turbo six-cylinder has substantially more output than the CLE 300’s 255-hp four-cylinder, and its sport-tuned suspension gives it a more athletic character.
Their core cabin technology is closely matched in recent models. Both use an 11.9-inch touchscreen system and include wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and a Burmester 3D surround-sound system.
The CLE 450 has AMG Line sport styling as standard across the model’s first-generation regular lineup. The CLE 300 is presented as the more understated entry model, with greater emphasis on comfort and the CLE’s sleek basic design.
Yes. In the regular first-generation lineup, both the CLE 300 and CLE 450 include heated power front seats with memory and a Burmester 3D surround-sound system.
Not entirely. The CLE 450 keeps the same luxury-focused cabin and everyday usability as the CLE 300, but its sport-tuned suspension gives it a more athletic feel. It suits drivers who want stronger performance without moving away from the CLE’s grand-touring character.
No. The numbers identify the powertrain and performance level, not the roof type. The CLE range includes Coupe and Cabriolet body styles, while 300 marks the four-cylinder model and 450 marks the stronger six-cylinder model.