As a devoted admirer of the original W212 generation E-Class, the announcement of the 2014 facelift for the E350 Mercedes Benz sparked a mix of anticipation and apprehension. The pre-facelift W212, with its distinctive rectangular quad headlights, was arguably the most elegant Mercedes-Benz sedan of recent times. The question was, could the facelift enhance or would it detract from this winning formula? Thankfully, any initial worries were quickly dispelled. While some iconic design elements evolved, the 2014 E350 Mercedes Benz emerged as a remarkably cohesive and undeniably handsome vehicle, retaining the core appeal of its predecessor while embracing modern refinements.
Having spent considerable time behind the wheel of various E-Class iterations, including the W212 and W211 E350 sedans, and even the pre-facelift 2014 E550 Cabriolet, my expectations for the 2014 E350 Mercedes Benz were grounded in experience. The E550, with its twin-turbo V8, was a powerhouse of effortless torque. The E350, while naturally aspirated, still delivers a compelling driving experience. The 3.5-liter V6 engine provides ample power and torque figures that remain competitive in its class. Although the 7-speed automatic transmission might not offer the lightning-fast gear changes found in some rivals, its smooth operation perfectly complements the E350’s relaxed and luxurious character. The engine also rewards spirited driving with a pleasing induction growl when you demand more throttle.
In a market increasingly saturated with vehicles chasing a sporty image, the 2014 E350 Mercedes Benz stands out for its commitment to refined comfort. This particular model was equipped with the Sport package, which tastefully added 18-inch AMG wheels, drilled pedals, and supportive multi-contour seats. Crucially, however, it avoided the pitfalls of overly firm suspension or artificially heavy, adjustable steering. This restraint enhances the E350’s overall appeal. It navigates the road with precision while maintaining the essential layer of isolation expected from a true luxury car. Even as a convertible, the cabin remains impressively quiet with the top raised, rivaling many hardtop coupes. With the top down, drafts are minimal, contributing to a serene open-air experience. The ride quality is supple, and the chassis exhibits remarkable rigidity, effectively minimizing scuttle shake and rattles even on less-than-perfect road surfaces.
This sense of tranquility extends to the interior of the 2014 E350 Mercedes Benz. While it might not boast the same level of overtly extravagant features as some ultra-high-end convertibles, the cabin exudes a sense of quality and craftsmanship that rivals those pricier alternatives. When compared to competitors like a fully optioned BMW 4-Series convertible, which can easily reach similar price points, the E350 holds its own remarkably well. Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system remains a benchmark in the luxury segment, thanks to its intuitive interface and sharp graphics. It avoids the frustratingly complex submenus found in some competing systems, presenting key functions in a logical and easily navigable horizontal layout. While the column-mounted gear selector might not appeal to everyone, it feels perfectly suited to the relaxed demeanor of the E350 Cabriolet. For those moments requiring manual gear selection, steering wheel-mounted paddles are readily available. The rest of the interior is crafted from high-quality materials and features a handsome design that justifies the as-tested price of just under $75,000. For drivers who prioritize a smooth, composed ride and are less concerned with chasing fleeting notions of “sportiness,” the 2014 E350 Mercedes Benz is an exceptionally compelling choice.
