The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has long been synonymous with sophisticated design and driving excellence. For enthusiasts of the marque, the W212 generation, particularly pre-facelift models from 2010, held a special appeal with its distinctive rectangular quad headlights and classic Mercedes styling cues. When the announcement of the 2014 facelift arrived, there was understandable anticipation, and perhaps a touch of apprehension, about how these iconic features would evolve. Would the refresh maintain the E-Class’s charm while moving it forward? The answer, as it turns out, is a resounding yes. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet successfully refines the W212 formula, creating an even more cohesive and handsome vehicle that upholds the legacy of its predecessors.
While the signature rectangular headlights and the ponton-style rear fender flares of the earlier W212 models are no longer present in the 2014 iteration, the updated design language brings a fresh and modern aesthetic to the E-Class Cabriolet. The lines are cleaner, the curves are smoother, and the overall impression is one of understated elegance. This evolution doesn’t detract from the E-Class’s appeal; instead, it enhances its timeless quality, ensuring it remains a desirable luxury convertible for years to come.
My prior experiences with the E-Class, including time spent with both the W212 and W211 E350 sedans and a thrilling stint in the 2014 E550 Cabriolet, had already established a high benchmark. The E550, with its twin-turbo V8, delivered exhilarating performance, a testament to the power of forced induction. The 2014 Mercedes Benz E350 Cabriolet, while naturally aspirated, proves equally rewarding in its own right. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine provides ample power for confident cruising and spirited driving, producing class-competitive figures and a pleasing engine note when you press the accelerator.
The 7-speed automatic transmission in the 2014 E350 prioritizes smoothness and refinement over lightning-fast gear changes. While some rivals might offer quicker shifts, the E-Class Cabriolet’s character aligns perfectly with a more relaxed and luxurious driving experience. This isn’t a car demanding to be pushed to its limits on every corner; it’s designed for comfortable and enjoyable journeys, whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a weekend road trip.
One of the most refreshing aspects of the 2014 Mercedes Benz E350 Cabriolet is its emphasis on luxury and comfort, without resorting to an overly aggressive “sporty” persona. While the test car was equipped with the Sport package, its enhancements were tastefully applied, including 18-inch AMG wheels, drilled pedals, and supportive multi-contour seats. Crucially, it avoided the pitfalls of overly firm suspension or artificially heavy steering often found in vehicles chasing a sporty image. The result is a car that delivers a precise and controlled driving experience while maintaining the essential isolation and comfort expected of a true luxury vehicle.
With the top up, the cabin of the 2014 E350 Cabriolet is remarkably quiet for a fabric-roofed convertible, providing a serene and peaceful environment. Lowering the top transforms the experience, opening up to the elements while effectively minimizing wind buffeting. The ride quality remains composed even on less-than-perfect road surfaces, with the chassis exhibiting impressive rigidity and freedom from rattles or cowl shake.
Stepping inside the 2014 Mercedes Benz E350 Cabriolet, you are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of quality and refinement. While it may not boast the most extravagant features of ultra-high-end convertibles, the cabin materials and construction are undeniably top-tier, rivaling even pricier competitors. When compared to similarly priced luxury convertibles, such as a fully optioned BMW 4-Series convertible, the E-Class Cabriolet holds its own remarkably well, often exceeding expectations in terms of perceived quality and overall ambiance.
Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system, featured in the 2014 E350, remains a benchmark in the luxury segment. Its intuitive interface, crisp graphics, and logical menu structure make it a user-friendly system, minimizing distractions and allowing drivers to easily access navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. Unlike some rival systems that can bury functions within layers of submenus, COMAND presents essential options clearly and accessibly.
The column-mounted gear selector, a Mercedes-Benz signature, may not appeal to all drivers, particularly those accustomed to sportier layouts. However, in the context of the E350 Cabriolet’s relaxed and luxurious character, it feels perfectly appropriate and intuitive. For those moments when manual gear selection is desired, steering wheel-mounted paddles are readily available. The rest of the interior is crafted from premium materials, exhibiting a level of design and execution befitting the test car’s as-tested price of just under $75,000.
For drivers seeking an effortlessly comfortable and refined open-top experience, without the need for overt sportiness, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet stands out as an exceptional choice. It successfully blends elegant design, a smooth and responsive powertrain, a luxurious interior, and user-friendly technology into a compelling package that embodies the core values of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet Specifications (as tested):
- Base Price: $61,125
- Price as Tested: $74,755
- Options: Palladium Silver metallic paint, Deep Sea Blue/Silk Beige Nappa Leather, Wood/Leather steering wheel, rear spoiler, high-performance tires, Premium 1 Package, Lighting package, Sport package, Parking Assist package, Driver Assistance package
- Powertrain: 3.5-liter V6 engine, 7-speed automatic transmission
- Horsepower: 302 hp
- Torque: 273 lb-ft
- Observed Fuel Economy: 22.1 mpg
Vehicle provided for testing and fuel by Mercedes-Benz. Photos by the author.
