Mercedes-Benz CLE Body Kit Review: Sporty Exterior Upgrade

Transform Your Mercedes-Benz CLE with a Sporty Aero Kit

Are you a Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe owner looking to give your vehicle a more dynamic and aggressive appearance? Adding an aftermarket aero kit, such as a sportier grille and a rear spoiler, can significantly elevate your car's visual appeal. This review, based on actual owner experiences and installation photos from South Korea, details the process, results, and considerations for upgrading your CLE's exterior. We'll explore how these enhancements can make your CLE stand out, focusing on the visual transformation and practical aspects of the installation.

Before & After: A Sharper Mercedes-Benz CLE Profile

The Mercedes-Benz CLE, particularly the Coupe model, offers a sleek foundation that can be further refined with targeted body kit components. One popular upgrade involves replacing the stock front grille with an AMG-style vertical grille, known for its eye-catching design that commands attention. Many Mercedes-Benz owners opt for this change to imbue their vehicles with a more performance-oriented aesthetic. In this case, a CLE owner, having previously installed a vertical grille, decided to complement it with a rear spoiler. This approach aims for a balanced aesthetic upgrade, enhancing both the front and rear profiles of the car for a cohesive, sporty look. The rear spoiler, mounted on the upper edge of the trunk lid, adds a dynamic flourish to the vehicle's rear end. Before installation, thorough cleaning of the trunk surface is crucial to ensure proper adhesion and a flawless finish. The spoiler, matched to the car's body color, integrates seamlessly, creating a natural, unified appearance and adding a distinct visual point to the otherwise understated trunk line, thereby boosting the car's presence. From a side profile, the spoiler follows the trunk's contour naturally, accentuating the CLE Coupe's inherent sportiness and contributing to a sharper, more aggressive silhouette.

Key Considerations for Your CLE Body Kit Installation

When considering a body kit for your Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe, it's essential to be aware of specific details. For instance, a rear spoiler designed for the Coupe model may not be compatible with the Cabriolet version, making it vital to confirm your exact vehicle model before proceeding. Providing your car's make, model year, and color in advance can streamline the booking and parts procurement process. While exact pricing requires a vehicle inspection and consultation, a combination of a vertical grille and rear spoiler typically starts in the range of KRW 200,000 (approximately $150 USD, though exchange rates vary). The final cost can fluctuate based on the specific products chosen, the extent of the work, and regional labor rates. Installation usually takes around 2 hours, but this can vary depending on the vehicle's condition and the complexity of the job. Warranty periods for the parts differ by manufacturer and installer, so it's advisable to clarify this during your consultation. Beyond body kits, CLE owners often enhance their vehicles with other upgrades like genuine head-up displays or premium audio systems from brands like Focal and Helix, further boosting the car's comfort and sensory experience.

Installation Process:

1. Thoroughly clean the installation area (e.g., trunk lid for a spoiler, front bumper for a grille) to remove all dirt, grease, and debris.
2. Carefully align the new body kit component (spoiler, grille, etc.) to ensure proper fitment and desired aesthetic.
3. Secure the component using the appropriate method, which may involve automotive-grade adhesive tape, bolts, or a combination of both, depending on the part.
4. Allow adequate curing time for any adhesives or sealants used, ensuring the component is firmly attached before driving.