The Beauty of Two Cars in One

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the E-Class Cabriolet, and a test drive event was held in Europe.

This is the fifth model in the E-Class lineup, following the sedan, station wagon, coupe, and all-terrain (not available in Japan), and it is the most elegant model in the range.

A key feature of the E-Class Cabriolet is the exhilarating open-air driving experience it offers. It can be fully opened in just 20 seconds at speeds up to 50 km/h. The new model offers more interior space, comfortably accommodating four adults.

Another highlight is the wealth of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies. The "Magic Vision Control," a notable innovation for both comfort and safety, makes its debut in this car.

Previously, Mercedes-Benz offered two four-seater full convertibles based on passenger cars: the S-Class Cabriolet and the C-Class Cabriolet (both introduced in 2016).

The E-Class Cabriolet occupies a unique position, approaching the S-Class in luxury while matching the C-Class in agility.

The test drive event took place in late June 2017 in Europe, set against the backdrop of a resort area in the mountainous region where Switzerland, Italy, and France meet.

We test drove the "E 400 4MATIC Cabriolet" and the "E 300 Cabriolet." The former is equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 245 kW (333 hp) and full-time all-wheel drive. The latter features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 180 kW (245 hp) driving the rear wheels (the European lineup also includes diesel and AMG variants).

In Europe, where summers are short, there's a strong preference for open-top driving. While perhaps not ideal for Japan's summer, the cabriolet offers the unique "functionality" of enjoying the other three seasons, a charm not found in coupes or sedans.

Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing high-quality, weather-resistant convertibles with padded roofs, dating back to before the war. The soft-top construction is excellent, and the car skillfully balances elegance and sportiness.

The E-Class Cabriolet features a prominent three-pointed star in the center of a classic sports grille, complemented by a flowing character line that extends elegantly towards the rear.

With the top down, the open-top profile is almost classical. When closed, the slim soft-top gives the impression of a large coupe, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of two distinct cars – one with the top up and one with it down.

The driving performance was a delightful surprise.

A Feeling of Piloting Something Beyond a Car

Mercedes-Benz held an international test drive event for the E-Class Cabriolet in the summer of 2017. This long-selling model has seen continuous updates since the "300CE-24" was introduced 25 years ago.

Despite a challenging period for convertibles in the 1980s due to regulatory changes in major markets, Mercedes-Benz consistently produced sedan-based convertibles, eschewing awkward rollover bars and boldly incorporating new technologies.

This is a cabriolet with a pedigree. As mentioned earlier, its style is remarkable, but what truly stands out is the exceptional handling, including the body's rigidity, a testament to Mercedes' extensive experience.

Our test drives primarily took place on winding roads and highways, and we were consistently impressed. The complex combination of aluminum and steel contributed to a sense of rigidity and lightness, delivering a truly memorable driving experience that included exceptional body roll control.

The "E400 4MATIC" is tuned to deliver its peak torque of 480 Nm from a low 1,600 rpm. Its power is astonishing. It accelerates in response to the slightest touch of the accelerator pedal, and according to the manufacturer's documentation, the transmission typically shifts up below 2,000 rpm.

Even when the transmission selects a higher gear for fuel efficiency, there's no discernible lack of torque. As you grip the steering wheel in the luxurious, cruiser-like interior, the sheer smoothness makes you feel as if you're piloting something beyond a mere car.

All test cars were equipped with run-flat tires. However, the E 400 4MATIC, featuring the optional "Air Body Control" full air suspension system, offered a remarkably supple ride with absolutely no harshness.

The "E 300 Cabriolet" used a combination of run-flat tires and conventional springs. This setup resulted in a noticeable firmness during low-speed urban driving. While discernible when compared side-by-side, this harshness dissipates at higher speeds as the ride becomes flatter and less noticeable.

Despite its name, the E 300 Cabriolet is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. With a maximum torque of 370 Nm available from just 1,300 rpm, it offers ample performance for everyday driving. While smaller displacement engines were once derided as 'economy models,' the 2.0-liter E 300 Cabriolet leaves no room for such criticism.

This is what true luxury is: the E-Class Cabriolet.

Remarkably Little Wind Turbulence

The E-Class Cabriolet's strengths are numerous, which is a testament to Mercedes' prowess. A brand like BMW might emphasize its driving pleasure through a sharper steering feel.

Beyond the abundant torque of the engine, the joy of driving is particularly evident on winding roads.

Like other Mercedes models, it excels on corners of all types, regardless of their radius. Even on tight corners, it maintains composure and navigates them at surprisingly high speeds.

The car exhibits subtle body movements and precise steering. The transmission, with its nine gears, likely selects the optimal ratio to deliver the right torque for acceleration from the corner's entry through to the exit. The feeling of power is continuous.

At the same time, the cabriolet is remarkably comfortable. This car experiences exceptionally little wind turbulence. This is partly due to the windshield extending to just above the front occupants' heads.

Additionally, an "Aircap" spoiler is integrated here to prevent wind buffeting, effectively serving its purpose.

A screen called a "windstop" can also be deployed behind the rear seats. With a simple button press, it smoothly rises to prevent wind from entering the rear cabin.

Some people enjoy the feeling of the wind when driving with the top down, while others might be concerned about their hairstyle being disturbed (and there are certainly such people).

The new E-Class Cabriolet's versatility caters to both preferences. Another welcome feature for open-top driving is the newly adopted "Magic Vision Control." This system integrates the washer fluid jets into the wiper blades.

In terms of comfort features, Mercedes is also generous with interior lighting, offering customizable ambient lighting colors. An optional package even provides 64 color choices.

The advanced driver-assistance and safety systems are comprehensive, resulting in a well-executed car that offers comfort and serenity, yet is also stimulating to drive.