Mercedes-Benz of Latham · The CLE comparison
Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 vs. CLE 450
Choose the engine. Choose the roof. Make the CLE your kind of two-door Mercedes-Benz.
The main difference is under the hood.
The CLE 300 uses a turbocharged four-cylinder engine; the CLE 450 upgrades to a turbocharged inline-six. For the U.S. 2027 models, that means 255 hp versus 375 hp. Both offer 4MATIC all-wheel drive, mild-hybrid assistance and a choice of Coupe or Cabriolet.
Choose the engine response you enjoy, then decide whether you want a fixed roof or a convertible. Moving from the 300 to the 450 does not require choosing a different body style.
By Mercedes-Benz of Latham · U.S. specifications checked October 14, 2026
CLE 300 vs. CLE 450: at a glance
| Specification | CLE 300 4MATIC | CLE 450 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L turbo inline-four | 3.0L turbo inline-six |
| Engine horsepower | 255 hp | 375 hp |
| Engine torque | 295 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Hybrid system | 48V mild hybrid; no plug-in charging | 48V mild hybrid; no plug-in charging |
| Transmission / drive | 9-speed automatic / 4MATIC AWD | 9-speed automatic / 4MATIC AWD |
| Body styles / seats | Coupe or Cabriolet / four seats | Coupe or Cabriolet / four seats |
| AMG Line styling | Optional | Standard |
Engine output is shown without adding temporary electrical assistance. Published specifications are for 2027; verify the model year and equipment of the vehicle you are considering.
Is the CLE 450 worth the upgrade?
Start with the CLE 300.
If you want the CLE’s design and two-door format, drive the 300 first. Pay attention to how naturally it responds in the driving you actually do, from local streets to highway merging.
Then drive the CLE 450.
The 450 adds 120 hp and 74 lb-ft. It belongs on your shortlist if stronger acceleration and an inline-six are part of the appeal. Whether that is worth the added purchase cost is a personal decision; compare actual vehicles and quotes.
Try both on the same route with the same priorities. There is no need to choose the 450 just to get all-wheel drive: both U.S. models compared here have 4MATIC.
Coupe or Cabriolet: choose the experience.
CLE Coupe
The fixed-roof Coupe includes a panorama roof and has four seats. Mercedes-Benz lists 11.2 cubic feet of cargo space for the 2027 Coupe.
CLE Cabriolet
The four-seat Cabriolet has a power fabric top and AIRSCARF neck-level heating. Published cargo space is 9.6 cubic feet. Bring the bags you actually use and check the cargo arrangement for roof-up and roof-down travel.
For either body style, try the rear-seat access before committing. A four-seat two-door car can suit occasional passengers differently from a four-door sedan, especially when child seats are part of your routine.
Compare options as carefully as engines.
AMG Line styling is standard on the 2027 CLE 450 and optional on the CLE 300. That styling package does not turn either one into a Mercedes-AMG CLE 53; the AMG model is a separate comparison.
Look at the exact vehicle’s seats, wheels, audio and driver-assistance equipment. If you plan to drive through the Capital Region’s winter, include the fitted tires in that conversation. All-wheel drive does not replace tires suited to the conditions.
Both models in this guide are mild hybrids and do not connect to an external charger. If a four-door vehicle is also on your list, our Mercedes-Benz hybrid sedan guide explains the alternatives.
Your questions, answered.
What is the difference between the CLE 300 and CLE 450?
For 2027, the CLE 300 has a 255-hp turbo inline-four and the CLE 450 has a 375-hp turbo inline-six. Both offer Coupe and Cabriolet body styles with 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
Can I get the CLE 450 as a convertible?
Yes. The U.S. 2027 lineup includes a CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet as well as a Coupe. Contact Mercedes-Benz of Latham to check current availability.
Do the CLE 300 and CLE 450 need to be plugged in?
No. Both 2027 models use mild-hybrid assistance and do not require external charging.
Is a CLE 450 with AMG Line the same as an AMG CLE 53?
No. AMG Line is a styling specification on the CLE 450. The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 is a separate performance model.
Mercedes-Benz of Latham
Find the CLE you want to drive.
Compare current Coupe and Cabriolet availability with our Latham team. We can help you narrow the engine, body style and equipment before your visit.
1111 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110
518-586-5716
