26 MPG combined for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE450 4MATIC Convertible shows that open-air luxury and exhilarating performance don’t require a total sacrifice at the pump. This isn’t a frugal economy car. Instead, it’s a touring machine, designed for those who appreciate the finer points of automotive engineering, who seek a refined balance of power and grace, and for whom the journey is as important as the destination. The CLE450 Convertible, with its strong 3.0-liter inline-six and standard all-wheel drive, delivers an experience, not just transportation. Its impressive combined figure makes it an efficient choice within its segment, a segment typically characterized by a more casual attitude towards fuel consumption. This car isn’t for the buyer who meticulously tracks every drop of super unleaded; it’s for the individual who demands luxury, a dynamic driving experience, and recognizes that modern engineering can deliver both without egregious compromise.

City and highway performance

In the city, the CLE450 4MATIC Convertible achieves 23 MPG and 32 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the challenges of stop-and-go conditions, where the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, with its mild-hybrid assist, still navigates urban sprawl with respectable efficiency. Mercedes-Benz’s 9-speed automatic transmission plays a crucial role here, smoothly shifting to keep the engine in its optimal operating range, mitigating the penalty of frequent acceleration and deceleration. On the open road, the picture changes dramatically. The 32 MPG highway rating is genuinely impressive for a vehicle of this caliber, especially one that has a substantial curb weight and boasts ample power. The smooth, aerodynamic profile of the CLE Convertible, combined with the engine’s ability to cruise effortlessly at highway speeds at low RPMs, allows it to sip fuel more like a grand tourer than a traditional luxury convertible. This highway efficiency directly appeals to the typical CLE buyer – someone who frequently embarks on weekend escapes or scenic drives, where sustained cruising is the norm. It speaks to the car’s fundamental mission as a long-distance cruiser.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,250 for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE450 4MATIC Convertible. This figure is derived from an assumption of 15,000 miles driven per year, split between city and highway conditions, and using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline. For the buyer of a CLE450 Convertible, this annual expenditure will likely be viewed as a reasonable cost of ownership, an expected part of enjoying a premium open-top driving experience. It’s certainly not a prohibitive sum that would deter someone already investing in a luxury vehicle of this caliber. Instead, it confirms that while performance and luxury are important, the underlying efficiency of the powertrain helps to keep the running costs in check, validating the engineering efforts Mercedes-Benz has invested in its modern drivetrains. This estimated cost further underscores that the CLE450 isn’t chasing economy above all else, but rather delivering a balanced approach where luxury and refined performance are met with sensible operational expenses.

Real-world expectations

In real-world driving, owners of the CLE450 4MATIC Convertible should expect to closely mirror the EPA estimates, assuming a mixed driving cycle. The mild-hybrid system, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz’s current powertrains, intelligently manages engine load and recuperates energy during deceleration, contributing to the consistent performance. Those who spend the majority of their time on highway cruises, where the 3.0L engine truly shines in efficiency, might even exceed the 32 MPG highway figure. Conversely, drivers primarily navigating dense urban environments or frequently indulging in the car’s 375 horsepower and rapid acceleration might see city figures slightly below the 23 MPG mark. The key factor is driving style, maintaining a smooth, progressive throttle application and using the car’s coasting function in its more efficient drive modes will yield the best results. The CLE450’s powertrain is designed for performance that doesn’t punish the driver with excessive fuel consumption, proving that a spirited drive and sensible long-term running costs are not mutually exclusive. For CLE450 MPG across all years, consult FuelEconomyHub’s database.

How it compares

The CLE450 4MATIC Convertible finds itself in a competitive, if niche, segment of luxury open-top cruisers. When stacked against key rivals, its 26 MPG combined figure holds up well. Consider the BMW 440i xDrive Convertible, for instance, which with its 3.0-liter turbo inline-six typically achieves around 24 MPG combined (21 City / 29 Hwy). The CLE450 boasts a slight but distinct advantage here, underscoring Mercedes-Benz’s efficiency focus without sacrificing output. Another strong competitor might be the Audi A5 Cabriolet with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which delivers closer to 27 MPG combined, but with notably less power and a different character than the CLE450’s six-cylinder. The larger and more powerful Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, while a different class of performance entirely, typically sees combined figures in the low 20s. For the demographic seeking a true luxury convertible experience with a potent inline-six, standard all-wheel drive, and a significant amount of refinement, the CLE450’s 26 MPG combined is a blend of dynamic capability and responsible efficiency. It offers the performance and panache expected of the segment, without the significant fuel economy penalty that might have been typical just a few years ago. You can explore all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to ensure your CLE450 achieves its optimal fuel economy. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, ideally once a month, and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended settings found on the driver’s side door jamb.

Employing a smooth and measured driving style significantly impacts your real-world MPG. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions burn excess fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and road conditions to maintain a consistent speed, allowing the mild-hybrid system and 9-speed transmission to operate most efficiently.

Use the car’s ECO drive mode on the highway or during leisurely drives. This mode optimizes throttle response, transmission shifts, and ancillary systems like climate control for maximum efficiency. While it may slightly dull the car’s outright responsiveness, the fuel savings on long journeys can be substantial.

Periodically clean out any unnecessary weight from the trunk or cabin. While the CLE450 is a substantial vehicle, even small amounts of added weight can incrementally reduce fuel efficiency over time. A lighter car requires less energy to move, translating directly to better MPG.