While sedan sales are declining, the situation is even worse for coupes and convertibles. As a result, most automakers have either reduced the number of two-door cars they offer or dropped these body styles altogether.
Mercedes-Benz has had one of the most diverse lineups of coupes and convertibles in recent years, but it is also streamlining its sporty offerings. The SLK-Class, S-Class coupe, S-Class cabriolet, and AMG GT Roadster have all been discontinued.
Next, the coupe and convertible versions of the C-Class and E-Class will be phased out and replaced with a new model rumored to be called the CLE-Class. We have already spotted prototypes for this potential CLE-Class in both coupe and convertible forms, as well as in sporty CLE 53 guise. Now, we have spy shots and videos of what appears to be a high-performance AMG CLE 63.
Elements indicating that this particular prototype is a range-topping AMG 63 model include large wheel and brake combinations, sizable air intakes at the front, and square-shaped exhaust tips. The prototype for the CLE 53 featured round tips.
Under the hood, it is expected to feature the same turbo-4-based plug-in hybrid powertrain found in the recently launched 2024 C 63 S E Performance sedan. The 2.0-liter turbo-4 is an upgraded version of the engine found in AMG's current compact lineup. Thanks to the addition of an electric turbocharger, output from the engine is boosted to 469 hp. The engine is then paired with an electric motor in a mild-hybrid configuration to draw power for ancillary features and serve as a starter motor.
Additionally, there's a more powerful rear motor (up to 201 hp) that takes the combined output to a maximum of 671 hp. This rear motor is mated to its own 2-speed transmission. A 6.1-kwh battery ensures a small electric range is possible. A similar setup, albeit with a V-8 engine, can be found in the 2023 GT 63 S E Performance 4-Door Coupe and 2023 S 63 E Performance.
In the case of the C 63 S E Performance, all the hardware is capable of 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3.3 seconds. The top speed is governed at 174 mph. Performance should be similar for the CLE with this powertrain.
The fire-breathing AMG version is expected to debut late in 2024 or possibly in 2025. A CLE 63 S E Performance cabriolet is also in the works.
