Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet and AMG GLC 43 India Launch On August 8

Mercedes-Benz India has confirmed that it will launch both the CLE cabriolet and the AMG GLC 43 4MATIC+ in India on August 8. Both have already been launched in the global markets and while the former is a completely new car that was launched last year, the AMG GLC 43 4MATIC+, on the other hand, is a facelift. The two new launches are part of the 6 pending products from the company for this year. Most recently, Mercedes-Benz India launched the new EQA electric SUV and the updated EQB.

The new Mercedes-Benz CLE cabriolet is a mid-size coupe and as the names suggest, comes with a soft top. It is based on the same platform as the new-gen C-Class and replaces the C-Class Coupe and E-Class Coupe in the three-pointed star's global portfolio.

Under the hood, the Mercedes-Benz CLE cabriolet is available with the choice of two powertrains -- an inline 6 and an inline 4. However, the India-spec version is expected to be available with the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, mild-hybrid powertrain that is good for 253 bhp and 400 Nm and is distinguishable by the 300 4MATIC badge on the tailgate.

On the other hand, the facelift Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC+ is one monstrous vehicle. While it is available in two distinct variants -- 43 4MATIC and 63 SE Performance -- in the global market, sadly in India we are getting the less potent '43' trim. As a consequence, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC+ is powered by the brand's 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, mild-hybrid turbocharged petrol engine that produces 420 bhp. Additionally, it also includes an additional boost of 10 kW from its belt-driven starter generator, and the power is sent to all four wheels via a 9-speed transmission.

Beyond the powertrain upgrade, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4Matic+ gets an updated AMG-specific grille, with bigger air intakes, and chrome plated trim elements. Just like the exterior, the interior also gets subtle updates in the form of new AMG seats in Artico with optional leather and Nappa upholstery. Additionally, there are two circular AMG steering wheel buttons entrusted with AMG Dynamic Select drive modes. And lastly, the MBUX system has also been adjusted for AMG-specific displays and functions as well.

Post the launch of these two new Mercedes-Benz models, the Indian arm of the German manufacturer is set to launch four more models by the end of 2024. Out of which, the electric iteration of the Mercedes G-Wagon and the Mercedes-Maybach EQS has already been confirmed for launch in the country later this year, as well as the new-gen E-Class.