As a long-time admirer of the W212 generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the announcement of the 2014 facelift sparked a moment of apprehension. The pre-facelift W212, with its distinctive rectangular headlights and classic rear fender lines, had set a high bar for automotive aesthetics. The question was, could Mercedes-Benz improve upon what many considered a benchmark in modern sedan design? Fortunately, any worries were quickly dispelled. The 2014 Mercedes-benz E350 Cabriolet, while departing from some of the earlier design cues, emerges as a remarkably handsome and cohesive vehicle, retaining all the sophisticated charm of its predecessor.
Having spent considerable time behind the wheel of various E-Class models, including the W212 and W211 sedans, as well as a prior experience with the 2014 E550 Cabriolet, I came to this E350 Cabriolet review with a solid understanding of the E-Class lineage. The E550, with its twin-turbo V8, was undeniably potent, delivering a tidal wave of torque that pinned you to your seat. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet, while naturally aspirated, offers its own distinct and equally satisfying powertrain experience. The 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers ample power for confident acceleration and effortless cruising. While the 7-speed automatic transmission might not possess the lightning-quick shifts of some competitors, its smooth and deliberate nature perfectly complements the E350’s relaxed and luxurious character. The engine produces a pleasing intake sound when you press the accelerator, adding a touch of aural excitement without disrupting the overall serenity.
In a market often saturated with vehicles chasing an overly aggressive “sporty” persona, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet stands out for its commitment to refined comfort and understated elegance. While this particular model was equipped with the Sport package, its enhancements were tastefully restrained, featuring 18-inch AMG wheels, drilled pedals, and supportive multi-contour seats. Crucially, it avoided the pitfalls of overly firm suspension or artificially heavy steering. The result is a car that navigates the road with precision and composure, while maintaining the essential layer of isolation that defines a true luxury vehicle. Even with a fabric roof, the cabin remains remarkably quiet when the top is up, rivaling many hardtop convertibles. Lowering the top reveals a remarkably draft-free open-air experience. The ride quality is supple and composed, and the chassis exhibits impressive rigidity, free from the cowl shake or rattles that can plague convertibles on less-than-perfect road surfaces.
The sense of tranquility extends to the interior of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet. While it might not boast the dazzling array of technology found in ultra-luxury convertibles, the cabin exudes a sense of quality and craftsmanship that rivals vehicles at much higher price points. Compared to a fully optioned BMW 4-Series convertible, which can easily reach similar price levels, the E350 Cabriolet presents a compelling value proposition. Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system remains a personal favorite within the luxury segment, thanks to its intuitive interface and clear graphics. It avoids the frustratingly complex menus found in some competing systems, presenting key functions in a logical and accessible horizontal layout. The column-mounted gear selector, while unconventional to some, proves to be perfectly suited to the relaxed nature of the E350 Cabriolet. For those who desire manual gear changes, steering wheel-mounted paddles are readily available. The materials throughout the cabin are of high quality, and the overall design is both elegant and functional, befitting the test vehicle’s near-$75,000 price tag. For drivers prioritizing a smooth, unhurried driving experience and genuine luxury over contrived sportiness, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet is an exceptional choice.
