Mercedes-AMG's new high-power plug-in hybrid convertible spied

A seemingly production-ready – if camouflaged – Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 convertible has been spied testing.

Mercedes-Benz is understood to be replacing two-door versions of its C-Class and E-Class with a new model called the CLE, and this appears to be the flagship plug-in hybrid AMG 63 variant.

The CLE 63 convertible will serve as the brand’s rival for the drop-top BMW M4.

The company’s research and development head Markus Schäfer has said the brand is looking to consolidate its convertible and coupe offerings. Two-door S-Class models, as well as the SLC, have already been discontinued.

AMG 63 models appear to have a wider track and a more aggressive front bumper than lesser CLEs, as well as bigger brakes.

The convertible will carry the same squared-off quad exhaust outlets as the coupe spied last year.

While the charging port is situated on the left rear fender for the plug-in hybrid C63 S E Performance, it’s located on the right-hand side of the rear bumper on the CLE as with other two-door Mercedes PHEVs.

It’s possible the upcoming CLE 63 model will share the same plug-in hybrid powertrain as the new C63 S E Performance sedan.

The all-wheel drive sedan’s PHEV system features a turbocharged 2.0-litre four cylinder engine that can provide 350kW of power and 545Nm of torque, a 6.1kWh electric battery, and a 150kW/320Nm electric motor.

Total system outputs are 500kW and 1020Nm, and there’s 13km of range.

The turbocharged engine is mated with a nine-speed multi-clutch transmission, while the electric motor features a two-speed transmission.

Mercedes-AMG claims a 0-100km/h time of 3.4 seconds for the C63 AMG.