
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 4MATIC® Cabriolet generates 120 more horsepower than the CLE 300 4MATIC® Cabriolet. This power difference dictates whether you prioritize peak fuel efficiency or rapid highway acceleration around Milwaukee. Discover which luxury convertible fits your lifestyle by browsing our current selection.
Choosing the right powertrain is the most significant decision when configuring your open-air driving experience. For a complete look at standard comfort, technology, and interior features across the entire lineup, visit our comprehensive 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet overview. Once you understand the broader model capabilities, you can browse our new CLE Cabriolet selection to find the precise performance profile that matches your daily driving habits.

The foundational difference between these two stunning models lies under the hood. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4MATIC® Cabriolet utilizes a highly efficient 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo engine. The CLE 450 4MATIC® Cabriolet steps up to a robust 3.0-liter inline-6 turbo engine.
The CLE 300 produces 255 horsepower and reaches 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, when properly equipped. For everyday driving in Glendale, this means you have more than enough agile, responsive power to merge onto busy streets or navigate suburban neighborhoods smoothly.
By contrast, the CLE 450 generates 375 horsepower and achieves a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.2 seconds, when properly equipped. This translates into effortless, surging acceleration. If you frequently take long weekend drives up the Lake Michigan shoreline or require rapid passing power on Interstate 43, the inline-6 engine provides a profoundly relaxed but incredibly potent touring experience.

Both vehicles feature standard 4MATIC® all-wheel drive, ensuring you retain confident traction during sudden Wisconsin rainstorms or light winter precipitation. They also both utilize a 48-volt mild hybrid system with an integrated starter-generator.
This hybrid technology smooths out gear transitions and allows the engine to briefly shut off while coasting. For the driver, this means you enjoy an exceptionally quiet cabin at stoplights and spend less time at the fuel pump, regardless of which engine you choose.
You can verify these official efficiency ratings via the EPA fuel economy database.
Review the key specifications below to determine which CLE Cabriolet powertrain best aligns with your performance expectations and daily driving needs.
| Specification | 2026 CLE 300 4MATIC® Cabriolet | 2026 CLE 450 4MATIC® Cabriolet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo | 3.0-liter inline-6 turbo |
| Horsepower (when properly equipped) | 255 hp | 375 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph (when properly equipped) | 6.2 seconds | 4.2 seconds |
| Estimated Efficiency | 24 City / 33 Highway MPG | 23 City / 32 Highway MPG |