As a long-time admirer of the W212 generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the announcement of the 2014 facelift sparked a mix of anticipation and concern. The pre-facelift W212, celebrated for its distinctive quad headlights and classic design, set a high bar. However, the updated 2014 E350 Mercedes proved that evolution can indeed enhance a winning formula. While some iconic design elements were refined, the core appeal of a handsome and remarkably cohesive luxury vehicle remained, and arguably, was amplified.
Having previously experienced the E-Class in various forms, including the earlier W211 and the pre-facelift W212 E350 sedan, as well as a 2014 E350 Mercedes in the exhilarating E550 Cabriolet guise, I approached this review with a solid understanding of the model’s heritage. The E550, with its twin-turbo V8, delivered breathtaking performance. This 2014 E350 Mercedes, while foregoing forced induction, still impresses with its naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. The 7-speed automatic transmission, though perhaps not the quickest shifting in its class, complements the E350’s relaxed and sophisticated demeanor. The engine delivers competitive power and torque figures, accompanied by a pleasingly subtle induction growl when you demand more from the throttle.
In an era where many upscale vehicles lean heavily into overt sportiness, the 2014 E350 Mercedes offers a refreshing counterpoint. Equipped with the Sport package, our test car featured stylish 18-inch AMG wheels, sporty drilled pedals, and supportive multi-contour seats. Crucially, however, the package stopped short of incorporating a harsh suspension or overly aggressive steering settings. This restraint is precisely what makes the 2014 E350 Mercedes excel. It navigates roads with precision while maintaining the crucial layer of isolation expected of a true luxury car. Even in Cabriolet form, with the roof up, the cabin remains remarkably quiet, rivaling some hardtop coupes. Lowering the soft top reveals a serene open-air experience, remarkably free from intrusive wind drafts. The ride quality is undeniably comfortable, and the chassis exhibits impressive rigidity, effectively minimizing scuttle shake and rattles even on imperfect road surfaces.
This sense of refined solitude extends to the cabin of the 2014 E350 Mercedes. While it might not boast all the cutting-edge, ultra-high-tech features found in top-tier luxury convertibles, the build quality and material selection feel comparable to far more expensive rivals. When positioned against competitors like a fully-optioned BMW 4-Series convertible, which can easily reach similar price points, the larger 2014 E350 Mercedes stands its ground impressively. Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system, with its clear visuals and intuitive operation, remains a personal favorite within the luxury segment. It avoids the distracting complexity of endless submenus found in some competing systems, presenting key functions across a logical horizontal screen layout. The column-mounted gear shifter, while not universally loved, feels perfectly appropriate in the 2014 E350 Mercedes Cabriolet, contributing to a relaxed and uncluttered driving experience. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters are still readily available for those moments when manual gear selection is desired. The overall interior design is aesthetically pleasing and crafted from high-quality materials, fully justifying the test car’s as-tested price of just under $75,000. For drivers seeking an effortlessly smooth and composed ride, prioritizing comfort and genuine luxury over forced sportiness, the 2014 E350 Mercedes is an exceptionally well-suited choice.
2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet Specifications:
- Base price: $61,125
- Price as tested: $74,755
- Options on test car: Palladium Silver metallic paint ($720), Deep Sea Blue/Silk Beige Nappa Leather ($1,370), Wood/Leather steering wheel ($590), rear spoiler ($350), high-performance tires ($250), Premium 1 Package ($3,270), Lighting package ($1,500), Sport package ($1,490), Parking Assist package ($1,290), Driver Assistance package ($2,800)
- Powertrain: 3.5-liter V6 engine, 7-speed automatic transmission – 302 horsepower, 273 lb-ft torque
- Observed fuel economy: 22.1 mpg
Vehicle provided for testing and one tank of gas by Mercedes-Benz. Photos by the author.
