Mercedes-Benz Teases High-Performance 'Mythos' CLE-Class Model

The new model appears to be a heavily performance-oriented AMG variant of the CLE-Class coupe.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 4:23pm

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Mercedes-Benz has teased a new high-performance 'Mythos' model based on the CLE-Class coupe. The camouflaged prototype features a massive rear wing, suggesting it will be a track-focused variant powered by the brand's 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine rather than the inline-six in the current CLE AMG 53 model. The 'Mythos' designation indicates this will be an ultra-limited model aimed more at collectors than buyers seeking outright track performance.

Why it matters

The CLE-Class occupies an unusual space in Mercedes' lineup, slotting between the C-Class and E-Class coupes. A high-performance 'Mythos' variant would represent the pinnacle of the CLE range and showcase AMG's engineering prowess, though its exclusivity and collectibility may price it out of reach for many enthusiasts.

The details

The teased prototype features heavy camouflage, but its massive rear wing and 'Mythos' branding clearly mark it as a track-focused, limited-edition model. While powertrain details remain secret, the choice of a large wing suggests Mercedes is equipping this CLE with more than just the current inline-six AMG 53 engine. A 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 is the likely candidate to provide the extra performance.

  • The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class was introduced in 2023 to replace the C-Class and E-Class coupes.
  • Mercedes teased the new 'Mythos' model on January 27, 2026.

The players

Mercedes-Benz

A German luxury automotive brand and a subsidiary of Daimler AG.

AMG

Mercedes-Benz's high-performance division, known for producing some of the brand's most powerful and track-focused models.

CLE-Class

Mercedes' coupe model that slots between the C-Class and E-Class in the brand's lineup.

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What they’re saying

“The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class is something of an odd duck in the German brand's lineup. Not quite a C-Class and not quite an E-Class, the coupe replaces both of those models' two-door variants with one vehicle geared at people who want a two-door Mercedes a little more ordinary—or at least affordable—than the SL and AMG GT.”

— Fred Smith, Motorsports Editor (roadandtrack.com)

What’s next

Mercedes has not provided any details on when the 'Mythos' CLE-Class model will be officially unveiled or go on sale.

The takeaway

The teased 'Mythos' CLE-Class represents Mercedes-AMG's effort to create an ultra-exclusive, track-focused variant of its mid-sized coupe. While the specifics remain under wraps, this model is likely to showcase the brand's engineering prowess and appeal to a niche group of collectors and enthusiasts willing to pay a premium for such a limited-production offering.