26 MPG combined for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE300 4Matic Convertible is not merely a number; it’s a strategic choice, demonstrating Mercedes’ understanding that even in open-top luxury, efficiency now matters more than ever. This vehicle is for those who appreciate effortless cruising, top down, with the wind in their hair, yet still demand a reasonable stride between fuel stops. It’s for the urbanite or weekend escape artist who wants the emotional connection of a convertible without the perpetual guilt of a fuel guzzler. The M254 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder, paired with the smooth 9G-Tronic transmission, delivers its power with a refined restraint that belies its output, proving that a refined driving experience doesn’t necessitate thirst.

City and highway performance

Looking at the specifics, the CLE300 4Matic Convertible returns an EPA-estimated 23 MPG in the city and an impressive 32 MPG on the highway. This disparity is telling. In urban environments, where stop-and-go traffic, accelerating from lights, and frequent short trips are the norm, the 2.0L engine works harder, engaging its turbocharger more often. The 4Matic all-wheel drive system, while offering superior traction and stability, also introduces a slight perpetual drag, incrementally influencing city consumption. However, hit the open road, let the 9-speed automatic settle into its taller gears, and that 32 MPG highway figure truly shines. It speaks to the engine’s inherent efficiency at sustained speeds and the transmission’s ability to keep RPMs low. This highway performance is precisely what a significant portion of CLE Convertible buyers seek, the ability to journey comfortably and economically to their preferred coastal retreat or mountain getaway, roof down, without constant glances at the fuel gauge.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,250 for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE300 4Matic Convertible. This figure is derived from an assumption of 15,000 miles driven per year, split between city and highway, and using national average fuel prices. For a luxury convertible, this is a remarkably palatable sum. It reinforces the CLE300’s position as a lifestyle vehicle that doesn’t punish its owner at the pump. While not a negligible amount, it signals that Mercedes has engineered a powertrain that offers a balance between spirited, confident performance and reasonable running costs. Buyers of this vehicle aren’t typically budgeting down to the penny for fuel, but they are astute enough to recognize value and appreciate an absence of excessive expenditure, even for their recreational drives. The $2,250 annual cost further cements the CLE300’s appeal as a daily-drivable luxury convertible, not just a weekend toy.

Real-world expectations

In real-world driving, owners of the 2025 CLE300 4Matic Convertible can largely expect to achieve numbers consistent with, or very close to, the EPA estimates. Mercedes-Benz powertrains are typically well-calibrated and deliver on their published figures. The key variable, as always, will be driving style. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and consistent use of Sport or Sport+ driving modes will naturally dip consumption below the 26 MPG combined average. Conversely, a relaxed cruising style, using the car’s excellent coasting capabilities and intelligent cruise control, particularly on longer highway stretches, could even see owners briefly exceed the 32 MPG highway number. The 4Matic system provides invaluable all-weather confidence, which is a major draw for buyers in northern climates, and its efficiency impact is remarkably minimal in regular driving. This car is purpose-built for the enthusiast who craves open-air motoring without the constant worry of range or exorbitant refueling.

How it compares

When placed against its direct competitors, the CLE300 4Matic Convertible holds its own very well in the fuel economy stakes. Consider the 2024 BMW 430i Convertible, also a 2.0L turbo-four: it achieves 27 MPG combined (23 city/34 highway) for the RWD model, aligning very closely. The AWD 430i xDrive Convertible drops slightly to 25 MPG combined, putting it just below the Mercedes. For those who might consider a more powerful, albeit thirstier, option, a Porsche 718 Boxster S (2.5L turbo-four) averages around 22 MPG combined, a notable step down for a primarily two-seater experience. Even stepping up to the Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic Convertible, with its larger 3.0L inline-six, sees a combined figure around 25 MPG. The CLE300 strikes a near-perfect balance, offering a premium open-top experience with competitive performance and fuel economy that doesn’t stand out negatively in a class where efficiency is often secondary. This makes the CLE300 MPG across all years a good choice.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to preserve the CLE300’s fuel economy. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check pressures monthly, especially before longer drives.

Use the car’s ECO drive mode whenever possible, especially in city driving. This mode optimizes throttle response, transmission shift points, and climate control to prioritize efficiency, making the most of every drop of fuel.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Smooth, gradual inputs are far more efficient than frantic stop-and-go driving, regardless of the vehicle.

Take advantage of the intelligent start/stop system. While some drivers find it intrusive, it significantly reduces fuel consumption during idling by shutting off the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the trunk and avoid using roof racks or external carriers unless absolutely necessary. Every extra pound and aerodynamic disruption negatively impacts fuel efficiency, particularly at highway speeds.