Mercedes-Benz has been pruning again its coupe and convertible choices lately, and the method extends to the two-door C-Class and E-Class fashions which can be within the means of deliver changed by a brand new mannequin known as the CLE-Class, which arrives within the U.S. early subsequent 12 months as a 2024 mannequin.

Our newest spy pictures present a prototype for the CLE-Class Cabriolet, in sporty AMG guise.

The prototype is probably going for a CLE 63 S E Efficiency Cabriolet, a brand new range-topping grade from AMG that packs plug-in hybrid energy. We all know the prototype is for a range-topping AMG due to its square-shaped exhaust ideas. Lesser AMG fashions use spherical ideas. Different AMG cues embrace the massive wheel and brake combo, giant air openings up entrance, and lowered suspension.

Below the hood ought to be the identical turbo-4-based plug-in hybrid powertrain that options within the 2024 C 63 S E Efficiency sedan and upcoming 2025 GLC 63 S E Efficiency crossover. The turbo-4 is an upgraded model of the two.0-liter engine present in AMG’s present crop of compact automobiles. Because of the addition of an electric-aided turbocharger, output from the engine is boosted to 469 hp. It additionally has an electrical motor built-in with the engine in mild-hybrid configuration to energy ancillary options, in addition to function a starter motor.

Mercedes-AMG E Efficiency

On prime of all this, there’s a rather more highly effective motor (as much as 201 hp) on the rear axle, which suggests mixed output could be bumped as much as 671 hp for temporary stints. This rear motor is mated to its personal 2-speed transmission. A 6.1-kwh battery ensures a small electrical vary is feasible.

AMG additionally plans a tamer CLE that may very well be badged a 43 or 53. If it is the previous, the powertrain ought to be the identical setup launched within the 2023 C 43 sedan. The setup consists of a 2.0-liter turbo-4 that generates 402 hp by itself, plus a mild-hybrid system that is capable of ship a brief 14-hp increase.

An alternate may very well be AMG launching a CLE 53 with the identical plug-in hybrid powertrain destined for the lately revealed 2026 GLE 53 Hybrid (and sure the subsequent E 53). This powertrain combines a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 with an electrical motor for a mixed 536 hp.

Search for AMG’s variations of the CLE-Class to debut round subsequent spring with gross sales to comply with later subsequent 12 months.