Mercedes-Benz CLE

Importing a used Mercedes-Benz CLE from the USA

The Mercedes-Benz CLE is the car that finally tidied up Mercedes' two-door line-up. Where there were once separate C-Class and E-Class coupes and convertibles, there is now one model that sits between them in size and covers the whole spread from comfortable cruiser to hot AMG. Bringing a used CLE across the Atlantic appeals to buyers who want a specific US-market colour or equipment combination, or simply spot a well-priced example on the American market. It is important to be clear from the outset about origin: the CLE is built in Germany, so the customs picture is different from a genuinely American-made car, and we set that out honestly below.

Model history and generations

The CLE (coupe chassis C236, cabriolet A236) was revealed in 2023 and reached the US market as a 2024/2025 model, replacing both the C-Class Coupe/Cabriolet and the E-Class Coupe/Cabriolet in one move. It rides on Mercedes' rear-drive-based MRA platform and is offered as a two-door coupe and a fabric-roof cabriolet. Because it is a young model, everything on the used market today is effectively a low-mileage, late-plate car — there is no long generational history yet, which makes provenance and specification the main things to compare rather than model-year evolution.

Engines and drivetrain

US CLE buyers chose mainly between the CLE 300 4MATIC, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four (around 258 hp) with a 48-volt mild-hybrid starter-generator, and the CLE 450 4MATIC, which uses Mercedes' smooth 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six with EQ Boost (around 375 hp). Above these sits the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+, combining a 3.0-litre turbo inline-six with an electric exhaust-gas turbocharger and a small electric motor for outputs in the mid-400s. All use a 9-speed automatic, and 4MATIC all-wheel drive is standard across the US range.

Which trim makes sense

Two body styles: a sleek two-door coupe and a cloth-roofed cabriolet with Mercedes' Aircap and Airscarf comfort features. Equipment lines follow the familiar Mercedes pattern of Premium and Pinnacle packages in the US, with the AMG models forming their own tier. US cars are typically generously equipped, with the large central MBUX touchscreen, Burmester audio options and driver-assistance packages commonly fitted.

Supply on the US market

Availability is still limited simply because the CLE is new — expect late-plate, low-mileage cars rather than a deep back catalogue. The CLE 300 and CLE 450 make up the bulk of used stock, with AMG 53 examples rarer and more sought-after. Condition on these cars is generally excellent given their age, but a young premium car still deserves a full history and inspection before purchase.

Who benefits from importing

A CLE import makes sense for the buyer who has found a specific US-spec car — a colour, an interior, an options mix or simply the right price — and wants a modern, elegant Mercedes coupe or cabriolet. Because it is so new, importing is less about finding something unavailable in Europe and more about opportunity and specification. Buyers should go in understanding the customs position clearly, which is where the German build matters.

Technical data

Known weak points and maintenance

As a new model the CLE has no long-term track record yet, so judgement rests on its shared components. The M254 2.0 four and M256 3.0 inline-six are established Mercedes engines used across the range; the inline-six in particular is well regarded for smoothness and its integrated starter-generator, though the 48-volt mild-hybrid system and its belt-driven starter-generator are worth checking on any used example. The MBUX infotainment is feature-rich but software-dependent, so confirm all screens, cameras and connectivity work and that software is up to date. Cabriolet buyers should test the roof mechanism through a full cycle and inspect the fabric and seals.

US and EU spec compared

US-market CLEs run headlights aimed for right-hand traffic, amber front side-marker and repeater lamps, and instrumentation primarily in mph. Rear fog lamps are typically absent on US cars and must be added for German approval. Feature availability can differ — some European options are bundled differently in the US — and the navigation and telematics may need European mapping. The car itself is mechanically identical to the European CLE, which simplifies servicing at any Mercedes dealer.

The import process in detail

The sequence is consistent: choose the exact car and agree condition and price; run a VIN and origin check to confirm the German build and clean history; use escrow to protect the funds; book ocean freight to a European port; clear customs on arrival; present the car for TÜV and, where needed, individual approval; then register and plate it. USCar Trader coordinates each step as an independent broker, not as a dealer.

What customs clearance really costs

Key point: duty depends on the plant of build; only a VIN check secures the 0% rate. Import VAT of 19% applies regardless.

Here honesty matters. The CLE is produced in Bremen, Germany, so it is not a US-origin vehicle. The 0% EU import duty preference introduced by Regulations 2026/1455 and 2026/1461 applies only to cars of provable US origin, which the CLE is not — its origin follows its actual German plant. That means the standard customs duty position for the vehicle applies rather than the US-origin preference, and we never describe such an import as "duty-free" or "guaranteed." What is always certain is the 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer), charged separately on the customs value of every imported car. We quote duty and VAT as clear, separate items so there are no surprises.

TÜV, modifications and registration

Typical approval work includes adding a rear fog lamp, adjusting or replacing headlights for right-hand traffic, and ensuring the speedometer shows km/h. The odometer reading should be verified and displayed correctly. As a current Mercedes model sold in Europe, the CLE generally causes few approval headaches once these lighting and instrument points are addressed.

Check before you buy

Confirm the VIN matches car and paperwork and shows the German build; obtain a Carfax or AutoCheck report free of accident, flood or salvage marks; inspect for any repaired damage on this young car; verify the short service history is complete; check the title is clean and held by the seller; cycle the cabriolet roof fully if applicable; and test MBUX, driver assistance and all cameras.

Common questions

Can I import a used Mercedes CLE from the USA?

Yes. A used CLE can be imported and registered in Germany after customs clearance and the required approval steps.

Does the CLE get 0% EU import duty?

No, not on the US-origin basis — the CLE is built in Germany, so the US-origin 0% preference does not apply. Duty follows the car's actual origin.

Does the 19% import VAT still apply?

Yes. The 19% German Einfuhrumsatzsteuer applies to every imported vehicle regardless of duty.

Which CLE should I look for?

The CLE 450 with its inline-six offers the best blend of refinement and performance; the CLE 300 is the efficient choice, and the AMG 53 is the enthusiast option.

Is the CLE reliable?

It is too new for a long-term record, but it uses proven Mercedes engines; check the mild-hybrid system, MBUX software and, on cabriolets, the roof.

Are parts and service easy in Europe?

Yes. The CLE is sold in Europe, so any Mercedes dealer can service it and parts are readily available.

How long does importing take?

Usually a few weeks for shipping plus clearance and approval, depending on port schedules.

Is USCar Trader a Mercedes dealer?

No. We are an independent broker arranging used-car imports on your behalf, with no manufacturer partnership or vehicle margin.

See more in the Mercedes-Benz in the Carhub, compare related two-doors such as the C-Class Coupe, the AMG GT Coupe and the SL-Class, or view the current CLE listings.