As a devoted admirer of the W212 generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the announcement of the 2014 facelift sparked initial apprehension. The pre-facelift W212, celebrated for its distinctive rectangular quad headlights and ponton-style rear fenders, was arguably the most aesthetically pleasing Mercedes sedan in recent history. The question was: why alter such a successful design? However, these concerns were quickly allayed. While the iconic design elements were revised, the 2014 Mercedes E350 Cabriolet emerged as a remarkably handsome and cohesive vehicle, retaining the essence of its predecessor while embracing a modern aesthetic.
Having previously experienced the E-Class in various forms, including the W212 and W211 E350 sedans and the 2014 Mercedes E350 refresh in the E550 Cabriolet guise, I was familiar with its capabilities. The E550, with its twin-turbo V8, delivered exhilarating performance. The 2014 Mercedes E350 Cabriolet, while forgoing forced induction, still offers a highly enjoyable driving experience. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine provides ample power and torque, competitive within its class, accompanied by a pleasing engine note under assertive acceleration. Although the 7-speed automatic transmission might not possess the lightning-fast shifts of some competitors, its relaxed programming aligns perfectly with the E350‘s character, encouraging a more composed driving style.
In a market increasingly saturated with vehicles emphasizing overt sportiness, the 2014 Mercedes E350 Cabriolet provides a welcome sense of balance. Equipped with the Sport package, the test car featured tasteful 18-inch AMG wheels, drilled pedals, and supportive multi-contour seats. Crucially, it avoided overly firm suspension or artificially heavy steering. This restraint enhances the E350‘s overall appeal. It navigates the road with precision while maintaining the essential isolation expected of a luxury car. The cabin remains remarkably quiet with the top raised, defying typical fabric-roof convertible norms. Lowering the top reveals a draft-free open-air experience. The ride quality is comfortable, and the chassis exhibits impressive rigidity, free from unwanted vibrations or rattles even on imperfect road surfaces.
This sense of refinement extends to the interior of the 2014 Mercedes E350 Cabriolet. While it might lack some of the extravagant features found in ultra-high-end convertibles, the build quality feels comparable to much pricier rivals. When compared to competitors like a fully optioned BMW 4-Series convertible, which can easily exceed $70,000, the larger E350 Cabriolet holds its own admirably. Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system remains a standout feature, praised for its intuitive interface and clear display. It avoids complex submenus, presenting major functions across easily navigable screen levels. The column-mounted gear shifter, while unconventional to some, proves practical in the E350 Cabriolet’s context. Steering wheel-mounted paddles offer manual gear control when desired. The cabin materials are high-quality, and the design is sophisticated, commensurate with the test car’s near-$75,000 price tag. For drivers prioritizing a serene and composed driving experience over aggressive sportiness, the 2014 Mercedes E350 Cabriolet is an excellent choice, blending luxury and open-top enjoyment seamlessly.
