2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 Cabriolet vs The Rivals

Read our full road test of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet here.

The Rivals: BMW 4 Series, Lexus RC 350 AWD, Ford Mustang GT Convertible

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet steps into a space where emotion matters as much as engineering. Luxury convertibles are niche in Canada, but competition is strong; from European grand tourers to American V8 icons. With the CLE replacing both the C-Class and E-Class cabriolets, Mercedes is aiming for the perfect middle ground: premium refinement, year-round usability, and a sense of occasion every time you drop the top.

Here’s how it stacks up against its closest real-world rivals: the BMW 4 Series Convertible, Lexus RC Coupe, and the Ford Mustang GT Convertible.

2025 BMW 4 Series Convertible (M440i xDrive)

The driver’s choice with sharper reflexes

If you’re comparing the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 Cabriolet to anything, the BMW 4 Series Convertible sits first in line. The M440i xDrive competes directly on power, layout, and pricing, and it remains the segment’s performance benchmark.

Its turbocharged 3.0L inline-six delivers 386 horsepower, making it more muscular than the Mercedes on paper, and that advantage shows on the road. The BMW feels lighter on its feet, more connected to the pavement, and more athletic through corners. It’s the convertible you pick if handling thrills are high on the priority list.

On the flip side, ride quality can be firm on broken pavement, and the interior feels colder and more functional than the CLE’s rich, sculpted cabin. The Mercedes simply wraps its driver in more warmth and tech sophistication.

Verdict: The most engaging and connected rival, but less luxurious than the CLE.
Website: BMW Canada

2025 Lexus RC 350 AWD (Coupe)

The stylish, ultra-reliable luxury alternative

While Lexus no longer offers a modern convertible, the RC remains a legitimate rival because many buyers cross-shop based on style, brand reputation, and luxury appeal rather than roof type alone.

The RC’s naturally aspirated 311-horsepower V6 is smooth and characterful, and while it doesn’t match the turbo urgency of the CLE or BMW, it delivers a charming old-school feel. Ride quality is plush, materials are beautifully screwed together, and long-term reliability is exceptional; a major advantage in a segment often associated with high maintenance costs.

Where the RC falls behind is technology. Its infotainment system and screen integration lag significantly behind Mercedes’ stunning digital setup. And with no convertible option, those seeking an open-air experience will naturally shift back to the CLE.

Verdict: A polished, stylish coupe with unmatched durability ,but ultimately not the sensory experience of a top-down Mercedes.
Website: Lexus Canada

2025 Ford Mustang GT Convertible

The fun wildcard with big personality

If the BMW is the precision tool and the Lexus is the dependable choice, the Mustang GT Convertible is the wildcard with the biggest personality in the group. Its 5.0-litre V8 (480+ horsepower depending on trim) makes the most noise, the boldest entrances, and the biggest smiles per kilometre.

The Mustang is not a direct luxury competitor, but it is absolutely cross-shopped by people who want an emotional, open-air driving experience at a much lower price point. The V8 rumble, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and pure Americana charm make it a compelling alternative; especially for buyers who prioritize fun over refinement.

Where it loses ground is in cabin materials, winter usability, and overall polish. Compared to the CLE 450, the Mustang feels raw and unapologetically simple.

Verdict: The best bang-for-buck convertible; thrilling, affordable, but not remotely as premium as the Mercedes.
Website: Ford Canada

Final Verdict: Where the CLE 450 Shines

Among these rivals, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 Cabriolet delivers the most complete luxury convertible experience. It falls between the BMW’s athletic edge and the Lexus RC’s serene comfort while offering vastly more refinement than the Mustang.

What sets the CLE apart is its holistic appeal:

• the most luxurious cabin in the segment
• the best tech suite by a wide margin
• all-weather AWD practicality for Canadian buyers
• balanced performance without sacrificing comfort

If the BMW is the driver’s car, the Lexus is the dependable companion, and the Mustang is the thrill ride, then the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 Cabriolet stands as the best all-around luxury choice; the one built for real-world grand touring with unmistakable Mercedes character.