Going topless has never looked so good. With styling clearly influenced by the S-Class Cabriolet, thanks to its more compact proportions, the E-Class Cabriolet manages to upstage its larger and more expensive sibling.
The S-Class derived insulated fabric roof – available in four colours – lends a classic feel to the Cabriolet while providing the theatre of opening or closing in just 20 seconds. The front end is imposing, without appearing aggressive, while you’d be hard-pressed to tell it apart from the S-Class from behind – especially if you remove the badges.
Only the ‘Aircap’ deflector lets the side down. The automatic draught-stop system comprises a wind deflector in the roof frame and a draught excluder behind the rear seats to reduce turbulence for all passengers. In our experience, it only serves to increase wind noise at speed and is less effective than on the C-Class Cabriolet.
On the flipside, the Airscarf neck-level heating system for the driver and passenger remains a great addition, and a must-have feature in the often damp and miserable UK. Roof up or roof down, you can have a conversation at motorway speeds in the E-Class Cabrio, meaning you might even begin to question the relevance of the Coupe.
But if the outside is desirable, the inside is spectacular. The quality and details are exquisite, with top-notch materials and a plethora of neat features. Again, the cabin is inspired by the S-Class, with a minimalist dashboard flanked by a pair of air outlets inspired by jet engines. There are a further three, smaller air outlets in the centre of the ‘floating’ dashboard.
In the back, passengers are treated to a pair of individually sculpted seats, a pair of cup holders and two more beautifully engineered air vents. While some cabriolets might leave rear seat passengers feeling shortchanged, in the E-Class they’re part of the theatre.
Overall, the interior of the E-Class Cabriolet feels closer to the S-Class than it does the C-Class. A masterclass in fit, finish and ambience.
Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment
The E 220d and E 300 feature Mercedes’ standard 8.4-inch screen set in the centre of the dashboard, while the E 350d and E 400 boast the impressive 12.3-inch media display. This setup is optional on the lesser models.
Similarly, the six-cylinder versions feature the impressive Comand Online system, comprising a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, which blends seamlessly with the central display a single piece of glass to create a high-tech feel. Again, the upgraded screen is available as an option on the four-cylinder models.
Audio fans will be tempted to tick the box marked ‘Premium Plus’, which includes a Burmester surround sound system. At £2,895, it’s not a cheap option, but the 13-speaker and 590-watt system is one of the best in the business.
