Mercedes-Benz CLE 220 D Tenerife Driving Review

When you arrive in Tenerife, the immediate temptation is to grab the keys to a small hatchback or a towering SUV. However, we wanted to see how a traditional, elegant coupe handles the dramatic topography of this volcanic island. We spent several days driving the Mercedes-Benz CLE 220 D across the diverse road network of Tenerife, testing its capabilities from sea level all the way to the clouds.

This car replaces both the C-Class and E-Class coupes, aiming to offer the agility of the former with the refinement of the latter. On an island that demands everything from high-speed cruising to navigating incredibly tight mountain switchbacks, a grand tourer like this faces a unique set of challenges. Here is exactly what it is like to get behind the wheel of this diesel-powered coupe under the Canarian sun.

How it drives on Tenerife roads

Our journey began on the TF-1 motorway, which traces the southern coast of the island. This road is characterized by long, fast sweepers and a generally excellent surface. Here, the CLE 220 D is entirely in its element. The suspension absorbs expansion joints with quiet confidence, and the cabin remains remarkably insulated from wind and tire noise. Cruising at the 120 km/h limit feels effortless. The long wheelbase provides exceptional stability through the sweeping bends near Guaza, making it a profoundly relaxing place to sit after a long flight.

Things change significantly when you point the nose inland and take the TF-21 climbing up to Mount Teide. As you ascend toward 2,100 meters above sea level, the air thins out and the temperature drops dramatically. We noticed a 15-degree difference between the warm coastal resorts and the lunar landscape of the national park. The turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel engine proved its worth on this sustained climb. While naturally aspirated engines often gasp for air at this altitude, the thick wave of diesel torque easily pushed the heavy coupe up the steep gradients. The steering is precise enough to place the car confidently through the wide hairpins of the pine forests, though you are always aware of the vehicle’s substantial weight.

The ultimate test of any car in Tenerife is the TF-436 descending into the remote village of Masca. This road is infamous for its extremely narrow cliff hairpins and steep drop-offs. Frankly, small cars have a distinct advantage here. Driving the CLE down into the Masca gorge requires intense concentration. The long hood and wide stance mean you must use every available inch of tarmac. When meeting an oncoming bus on a blind corner, we had to reverse carefully to find a passing point. The parking sensors and surround-view cameras were absolutely essential, but the sheer size of the coupe made this section of the trip more stressful than enjoyable.

Seeking a different climate, we headed north to the Anaga forest roads. This ancient laurel forest is completely distinct from the arid south. The roads here are damp, twisty, and often cloaked in thick mist. The rear-wheel-drive setup of the CLE requires a gentle right foot on the slick, leaf-covered tarmac. However, the predictable chassis and excellent traction control systems kept us secure. The ambient lighting of the cabin and the excellent climate control made the misty, cool environment outside feel romantic rather than intimidating.

Where this car shines (and where it does not)

This vehicle is an absolute triumph when used as a grand tourer. If your itinerary involves cruising between high-end resorts, visiting the capital of Santa Cruz, or taking the smooth, flowing roads up to the Teide observatory, you will be deeply impressed by the ride quality and interior luxury. The seats are supportive enough for a full day of driving without a hint of backache, and the Burmester sound system easily fills the quiet cabin.

We must be honest about its drawbacks. The CLE is simply too wide and too long for the ancient, agricultural routes of the island. Taking it into the deepest parts of the Teno Rural Park or the narrowest streets of historic Garachico will test your nerves. The low ride height also means you need to crawl over the aggressive speed bumps found in many residential areas. Furthermore, while the diesel engine is incredibly efficient and torquey, it lacks the auditory drama you might want when driving a stylish coupe through a mountain tunnel.

Practical notes

Navigating the resort streets in Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, and Playa de las Americas requires some planning. Tight parking spaces are the norm here. When you find a spot along the blue-line meters, you will often find the doors of the CLE are quite long, making it difficult to exit the vehicle if the neighboring car has parked poorly. We highly recommend utilizing private underground parking garages where possible, as the spaces tend to be slightly more forgiving.

Fuel economy is a major strong point. Despite the heavy climbing up to Teide and the stop-start traffic in the resorts, the diesel engine sipped fuel, meaning we did not have to visit a petrol station during our entire three-day test. If you are planning high mileage around the island, the Automatic 2.0 L CLE 220 D is a highly economical choice.

Luggage space is generous for a coupe. The boot easily swallowed two large suitcases and a couple of soft weekend bags, which is more than enough for a couple on a two-week holiday. While there are four seats, the rear is best reserved for children or for adults on very short trips to dinner, as headroom slopes down sharply in the back.

Verdict

Driving the Mercedes-Benz CLE 220 D in Tenerife is a study in contrasts. On the sweeping coastal motorways and the wide, sweeping climbs toward the volcano, it feels like the perfect companion. It isolates you from fatigue and delivers you to your destination feeling refreshed. Yet, on the most extreme, narrow mountain passes, its size demands respect and caution. If your Tenerife holiday is about luxury, comfort, and effortless cruising between beautiful locations, this coupe is a magnificent way to experience the island.

Where to book the Mercedes-Benz CLE 220 D in Tenerife

If this one sounds like your kind of drive, you can check dates and prices for the Mercedes-Benz CLE 220 D hire in Tenerife directly. Prefer to compare first? Browse all Mercedes rentals in Tenerife, economy car hire in Tenerife, car hire in Tenerife.