On 22 January 2026 in Milton Keynes, Mercedes-Benz added another chapter to its long awards history, with the CLE Cabriolet crowned Best Convertible at the 2026 What Car? Awards. The accolade recognises a car that blends traditional open-air glamour with modern engineering, delivering a driving experience designed to be enjoyed far beyond the height of summer.
A convertible designed for every season
The CLE Cabriolet stands out in a segment often defined by compromise. With 140 years of Mercedes-Benz innovation behind it, the car has been engineered to make open-top driving genuinely usable all year round. Central to that promise are the brand’s signature comfort technologies. The standard AIRCAP® electric wind deflector system reduces turbulence in the cabin, while the AIRSCARF® heating system gently warms occupants’ necks, extending roof-down comfort into cooler months.
What Car? judges highlighted just how effectively these features work in practice. According to editor Steve Huntingford, no other convertible matches the CLE Cabriolet’s ability to shield occupants from wind buffeting, regardless of price. That sense of refinement is reinforced by a suspension setup that delivers a smooth, composed ride even without adaptive dampers, absorbing poor road surfaces with confidence and calm.
Practicality without diluting style
Beyond comfort, the CLE Cabriolet challenges assumptions about everyday usability. As a genuine four-seater, it offers space that makes it a realistic choice for families or regular passengers, rather than a purely indulgent second car. Inside, the cabin reflects Mercedes-Benz’s focus on detail, from material quality to the clever electrically tilting infotainment screen that reduces glare when driving with the roof down. It is a subtle touch, but one that underscores the car’s thoughtful approach to open-air motoring.
The award serves as a reminder that the CLE Cabriolet is not simply about aesthetics or heritage. It is a carefully balanced package that brings together refined handling, comfort-focused technology and day-to-day practicality, all wrapped in a design that remains unmistakably Mercedes-Benz.
A strong showing across the range
The CLE Cabriolet’s success was part of a broader celebration for the brand at the 2026 What Car? Awards. Mercedes-Benz also claimed Best Hybrid Executive Car with the plug-in hybrid E 300 e. Judges praised the E-Class for its impressive electric driving range, supple ride quality and high-quality interior, qualities that reflect the model’s role as a benchmark in the executive segment.
For the third consecutive year, the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ secured the title of Best Hot Hatch. What Car? highlighted its innovative 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, AMG-developed suspension and confident 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, reaffirming its position as one of the most technically advanced and engaging performance hatchbacks on sale.
Award-winning models, readily available
The Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet, the E-Class and the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ are all available to order online at shop.mercedes-benz.co.uk or through a Mercedes-Benz Agent. Together, their recognition at the 2026 What Car? Awards reflects a range that continues to combine innovation, comfort and performance, whether the priority is open-top elegance, executive efficiency or high-octane driving enjoyment.
