Mercedes-Benz to launch CLE Cabriolet and GLC 43 coupe on 8 August

• Part of Mercedes's Top-end portfolio
• GLC 43 gets new engine

Introduction

Mercedes-Benz is expanding its top-end vehicle portfolio in 2024 with the addition of two specialised models for the Indian market. One will be the CLE Cabriolet, a four-seat convertible model, while the other will be the GLC 43 AMG, which will make a return to the Indian shores after almost two years.

CLE Cabriolet

This is a fully convertible version of the CLE coupe and will be the first four-seat convertible model in the Indian market. The cabin is standard Mercedes fare with dual digital displays, of which the infotainment unit is portrait-oriented. There is a lot of leather, swathes of chrome, and high-quality plastic all around. Its two party pieces will be a convertible soft top that can go up or down in 20 seconds at speeds of up to 60kmph, while the second one is a full-fledged second row, thanks to the 4.8-metre length and 2.85-metre wheelbase. For comparison, it is longer on both fronts than a Toyota Innova Crysta!

Powering this car will be a 3.0-litre inline-six petrol producing 375bhp/500Nm, mated to a nine-speed AT. As a part of the deal, the car will get drive modes, courtesy of the automaker’s dynamic select package.

GLC 43 AMG

Mercedes’ most powerful car in the GLC range (for India) will make a comeback after almost two years. It brings back the same formula as before – GLC coupe body, 3.0-litre inline-six tweaked by AMG, and a luxurious cabin.

On the outside, highlights include the AMG grille, wheels, and badging all around, while the cabin too gets its AMG splashes in the form of an updated instrument cluster, carbon-fibre inserts, contrast-coloured door inserts, as well as seatbelts.

The GLC 43 moves from a 3.0-litre inline-six petrol to a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 421bhp/500Nm. It comes mated to an AMG-tuned nine-speed AT. You get 4MATIC AWD with 31:69 distributions between the front and rear wheels, respectively. Both cars will arrive via the CBU route and we expect Mercedes to price them at Rs. 1 crore for the CLE and Rs. 80 lakh for the GLC coupe.