Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class vs Denza B8
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class starts from $104,900 before on-road costs, while the Denza B8 opens at $91,000. That makes the Denza B8 the more affordable entry point by $13,900.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $115,390 and $100,100 respectively.
The Denza B8 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Denza B8 by roughly $8,890 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class and Denza B8 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 92% for the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class and 86% for the Denza B8.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the Denza B8.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, head-up display, wireless charging, panoramic roof, power tailgate, Burmester audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Denza B8. The Denza B8 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class uses a Petrol producing 150kW and 320Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8 seconds.
The Denza B8 responds with a Petrol Turbo PHEV making 425kW, paired to a 1-speed auto driving all four wheels.
The Denza B8 has the clear power advantage at 425kW vs 150kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class measures 4,850mm long on a 2,865mm wheelbase, 345mm shorter than the Denza B8 at 5,195mm.
For towing, the Denza B8 leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 1,800kg. That 1,700kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.6m diameter
Average
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,138/year for the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class and $360/year for the Denza B8. That is a $1,778 annual difference in favour of the Denza B8.
Estimated annual total: $2,138 (Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class) vs $360 (Denza B8). The Denza B8 saves you roughly $1,778 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Denza B8). The Denza B8 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class if: You or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Denza B8 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Denza's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Denza B8 takes 4 of 4 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Denza B8 will save you roughly $1,778 a year in fuel. The Denza B8 adds peace of mind with a longer 6-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class and Denza B8?
The Denza B8 is the cheapest at $91,000 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class by $13,900.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class uses the least fuel at 7.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mercedes-Benz CLE-Class and Denza B8 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Denza B8 has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Denza B8 has the longest warranty at 6 years / 150k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Denza B8 makes the most power at 425kW.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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