2014 Mercedes-Benz E 350 Cabriolet: A Blend of Elegance and Comfort

As someone deeply appreciative of the W212 generation E-Class, the announcement of the 2014 facelift sparked a mix of curiosity and concern. The pre-facelift W212, with its distinct rectangular quad headlights and classic ponton-style rear fenders, was arguably one of the most aesthetically pleasing Mercedes-Benz sedans in recent history. The question was: could the facelift enhance, or would it detract from, this well-regarded design? Fortunately, my apprehension was unfounded. While the iconic quad headlights and ponton fenders have been replaced, the 2014 Mercedes-benz E 350 Cabriolet emerges as a remarkably harmonious and undeniably handsome vehicle.

Having previously experienced the E-Class in various forms, including the W212 and W211 E350 sedans and a 2014 E550 Cabriolet, I was familiar with the platform’s inherent qualities. The E550, with its twin-turbo V8, delivered exhilarating performance, boasting a substantial 440 lb-ft of torque readily available from just 1600 rpm. The 2014 E 350 Cabriolet, while forgoing forced induction, still offers a thoroughly enjoyable driving experience. The 7-speed automatic transmission, while not the quickest to shift compared to some rivals, complements the E-Class’s relaxed and refined character. The 3.5-liter V6 engine provides ample power and torque for everyday driving, accompanied by a pleasing 엔진음 under heavier throttle inputs.

In a market often saturated with vehicles aggressively pursuing “sportiness,” the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 350 Cabriolet is refreshingly different. While equipped with the Sport package, the enhancements are tastefully restrained, limited to 18-inch AMG wheels, drilled pedals, and supportive multi-contour seats. Crucially, the package avoids compromising ride comfort with a harsh suspension or overly aggressive steering tuning. This restraint benefits the E350 significantly, allowing it to deliver a driving experience that is both precise and appropriately isolated – hallmarks of a true luxury car. The cabin remains remarkably quiet with the top raised, defying typical fabric-roof convertible norms. Lowering the top reveals a serene open-air experience, largely free from intrusive wind drafts. The ride quality is consistently comfortable, and the chassis exhibits impressive solidity, effectively minimizing scuttle shake and rattles, even on imperfect road surfaces.

This sense of tranquility extends to the interior of the 2014 E 350 Cabriolet. While it may not feature all the cutting-edge technology found in ultra-luxury convertibles, the cabin’s construction and material quality are comparable to vehicles in a much higher price bracket. When compared to competitors like a fully optioned BMW 4-Series convertible, which can easily exceed $70,000, the larger E-Class holds its own remarkably well. Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system remains a personal favorite for its intuitive interface and sharp visuals. It avoids the frustratingly complex sub-menu structures common in some rival systems, presenting primary functions across a clear horizontal menu layout. The column-mounted gear selector might not appeal to everyone, but in the context of the E350 Cabriolet’s relaxed demeanor, it functions perfectly well. Steering wheel-mounted paddles are still available for manual gear changes when desired. The overall interior ambiance is one of refined luxury, commensurate with our test vehicle’s as-tested price of just under $75,000. For drivers seeking an unperturbed and comfortable open-top experience, without prioritizing overtly sporty handling, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 350 Cabriolet is an exceptionally compelling choice.

2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet Specifications: