Insufficient sales of the E-Class coupe and the C-Class coupe cannot go unnoticed, and it is finally the time to give the last hurrah to the current models. Automotive News reports that the Stuttgart-based carmaker has confirmed the discontinuation of these models with U.S., and the launch of their replacement, the new CLE-Class is imminent. If the cards are played right, the new CLE-Class will be an instant hit because it will be very similar to the Mercedes-AMG SL-Class in terms of design aesthetics and features.

Because of the growing demand for more practical vehicles, Mercedes is simplifying the two-door coupe scene and, ultimately, killing off the C-Class and E-Class coupes. The upcoming CLE-Class will fill the gap until the two-door coupe scene no longer exists. Like many other carmakers, Mercedes is heavily dependent on its SUV lineup, part of which can be credited to the GLC-Class, which is the best-selling Merc in the U.S.

The CLE-Class, as we've seen in spy shots, looks modern and will feature all the tech goodies of the newest Mercedes models. The front fascia will sport a more aggressive intake grille design and sleek LED headlights. However, the dimensions will place it somewhere between the C- and E- Class in terms of size. The overall design will be more aerodynamic, like the SL-Class. The most important update will be seen inside the cabin. The portrait-style 14.9-inch display and an 11.9-inch MID are the latest from Mercedes and will be a part of the upcoming CLE-Class.

Similar to the current C-Class and E-Class coupes, the CLE-Class will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-pot, possibly with an ISG. In addition, a nine-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel drive will be offered as standard. However, 4Matic will remain an option. As for the AMG lineup, we are not sure about using the twin-turbo V-8, but we will know more after the standard CLE-Class comes forth.

The rise of utility vehicles has made things uncertain for sedans and coupes. A Mercedes-Benz dealer has confirmed that “there’s just not enough demand for coupe models. So, it didn’t make sense to invest billions of dollars it would take to do a refreshed version of those”. He also added that “utility vehicles are appealing to a wider market as younger buyers appreciate the ability to throw their gear in the back, and older buyers like the ease of getting in and out of the vehicle”. With the GLC Coupe joining the game, it will be a bang-on offering from Mercedes as it focuses on consumers who do not want to give up on practicality but also want to experience a coupe-like behavior.