Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 Cabriolet

High likelihood of adopting a V8 engine

The current Mercedes-AMG C 63 S boasts a maximum output of 671 PS, making it the best in its class. However, the switch from the previous model’s twin-turbo V8 to an inline-four turbo engine and plug-in hybrid undoubtedly disappointed some fans. It appears that the Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 has learned from that experience and is undergoing development.

Although we were not able to see the engine bay of the test vehicle, the scoop photographer confirmed a “breathtaking sound” that cannot be heard in the four-cylinder C 63. The V8 engine installed in the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 produces a maximum output of 577 PS and a maximum torque of 800 Nm. Although this is lower than the C 63’s maximum output of 680 PS and maximum torque of 1020 Nm, it is still powerful enough. The biggest interest will be whether AMG engineers will tune this V8 engine for the CLE 63.

It is not expected to be made into a PHEV

Like the coupe, the cabriolet prototype doesn’t appear to have any charging ports, suggesting the V8 model won’t get a plug-in hybrid system. A mild hybrid system is being considered, but it would likely improve efficiency without diluting the V8’s flavor.

Will E-Performance also be introduced?

At the same time, there are rumors that the CLE 63 will have a second powertrain option, likely a plug-in hybrid system similar to that found in the C 63 SE Performance.

The E-Performance combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with an electric motor, a 6.1kWh lithium-ion battery, and a fully variable all-wheel-drive system. This setup produces 680 PS and 1020 Nm of torque. It will be interesting to see which of the V8 and plug-in hybrid systems will be favored if both are offered.

The interior and exterior are the same as the coupe

The Cabriolet prototype captured this time is equipped with the same Panamericana grille as the coupe. Vertical louvers are also placed on the wide intake at the bottom, creating a “twin Panamericana grille.” Furthermore, the corner air intakes are also equipped with fins, giving the front end an aggressive look.

Inside, the cabin is expected to borrow heavily from the C-Class rather than following the lead of the current E-Class, which features an optional “Superscreen” dash layout. It will have the same overall layout as the standard CLE, but will undoubtedly be fitted with AMG-esque features like sportier bucket seats, an AMG steering wheel, and a performance-focused driving mode.

The world premiere of the AMG CLE 63 Coupe/Cabriolet is expected to be sometime in 2025.

PHOTO／APOLLO

Related reading

Is a 4-cylinder engine not powerful enough? Will the Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 Coupe be equipped with a sensual V8? [Scoop!]

The Mercedes-Benz CLE is a new model that combines the C-Class Coupe and E-Class Coupe. Therefore, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 Coupe is essentially the successor to the C 63 Coupe. Our scoop team captured a prototype undergoing a test run at the Nürburgring.