The Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe is based on the same underpinnings as the C-Class sedan so shares the same dashboard design and layout.

Standard features on both Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe models includes 19-inch alloy wheels, AMG Line exterior and interior packages, a panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient cabin lighting, heated front seats with memory function, a head-up display, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, plus the latest MBUX infotainment system which runs through a 11.9-inch touchscreen as well as Burmester surround sound system.

The CLE200 and CLE300 are both powered by four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engines, albeit in different states of tune, and each assisted by a mild-hybrid integrated starter generator.

The CLE200 Coupé makes 150kW and 320Nm and sends it to the rear wheels via a nine-speed auto transmission. While the CLE300 4Matic Coupé gets 190kW and 400Nm but also gets Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system.

Front seat room is generous in the Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe, with plenty of shoulder room and the seats offer good comfort and support. In the back Mercedes’ designers have managed to create 95mm more legroom than the old C-Class Coupe, but fractionally less than the E-Class Coupe (just 1mm less). The rear seats are wider than both out-going models, both across the shoulders and the mid-section. Headroom has been increased by 10mm over the C-Class but decreases by the same amount compared to the E-Class.

Claimed 0-100km/h performance figures from Mercedes-Benz have the CLE200 taking 7.4 seconds and the CLE300 taking 6.2 seconds to achieve the target.

The Mercedes-Benz CLE has a 65-litre fuel tank, meaning the CLE200 has a theoretical driving range of 902km and the CLE300 can drive up to 878km.