The 2018 Mercedes-benz E 400 4MATIC Cabriolet is a vehicle that initially overwhelms with its extensive list of features and stunning digital displays, yet presents a driving experience that might leave some wanting more engagement. After a week of thorough testing, several aspects of this luxury convertible stood out, from its breathtaking design and opulent comfort to the slightly subdued driving dynamics. This review delves into the specifics of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E 400, providing a comprehensive look for potential buyers and automotive enthusiasts.
Mercedes-Benz, under the guidance of Chief Design Officer Gordon Wagener, has truly crafted a visually remarkable automobile. The E 400 Cabriolet showcases a design purity that is increasingly rare in today’s market. Its silhouette boasts an elegant balance, flowing seamlessly from front to rear. The car’s proportions are expertly judged, resulting in a vehicle that is both sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing. Notably, the design team has resisted the trend of adding unnecessary creases and flamboyant details, opting instead for a clean, refined look.
Image alt text: Front three quarter view of a silver 2018 Mercedes-Benz E 400 4MATIC Cabriolet showcasing its elegant design.
This design philosophy evokes classic automotive icons like the Jaguar E-Type and the Porsche 911 in their most refined forms. The smooth, rounded contours suggest a timeless appeal, ensuring the 2018 E-Class Cabriolet will remain stylish for years to come. Mercedes-Benz deserves considerable praise for this restrained yet impactful design direction, especially when many contemporary cars suffer from overly complex and busy styling.
However, while the visual appeal is undeniable, the driving experience of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E 400 Cabriolet leans heavily towards relaxed cruising rather than spirited performance. This car is engineered for those who prioritize enjoying the scenery and comfortable ride over tackling winding roads with enthusiasm. It offers a level of comfort akin to a luxurious armchair, making it ideal for long journeys, but perhaps less so for drivers seeking dynamic engagement.
The integration of numerous semi-autonomous driving features, part of the optional Intelligent Drive Package, further emphasizes this relaxed driving character. These systems, while technologically impressive, can sometimes make the driver feel somewhat secondary to the driving process. While legal regulations and consumer demand necessitate a driver, the underlying technology suggests a future where autonomous driving becomes the norm, potentially diminishing the role of human input in driving.
Image alt text: Rear profile of a 2018 Mercedes-Benz E 400 Cabriolet with the convertible top neatly stowed away, emphasizing its sleek lines.
Despite the critique of driving engagement, the engineering prowess behind these technologies is commendable. Daimler, Mercedes-Benz’s parent company, is at the forefront of autonomous driving development. However, the increasing reliance on these systems raises questions about their impact on driving skills and the communal aspects of driving that have been part of modern society for over a century. Just as some argue that reliance on search engines can diminish cognitive abilities, over-dependence on self-driving features might lead to driver complacency and a disconnect from the driving experience.
During the test drive, many of the “active-assist” features were deactivated to gain a more traditional driving feel. Some of these systems, like lane keeping assist, can be overly sensitive and struggle to differentiate between intentional lane changes and unintentional drifting. While these technologies are continually improving, they are not yet infallible.
In its element as a long-distance cruiser, the 2018 E-Class Cabriolet excels. Mercedes-Benz has successfully adapted the E-Class platform to create an open-top vehicle that offers reasonable rear-seat space and maintains a comfortable environment regardless of the weather. This is largely thanks to features like wind deflectors and the AirScarf and AirCap systems. AirScarf provides warming air to the neck area for front passengers, while AirCap directs warm air across the heads of rear occupants, enhancing comfort in cooler temperatures with the top down.
The exterior design is further enhanced by standard AMG styling elements. These include 18-inch alloy wheels, the distinctive “Diamond Grille,” full LED lighting front and rear, AMG front and rear aprons, side skirts, and power domes on the hood. These details elevate the car’s visual appeal, making it a head-turner on the road.
The convertible top, when stowed, disappears completely beneath a tonneau cover, maintaining the car’s clean lines. When raised, the multi-layer fabric roof effectively insulates the cabin from cold, rain, and external noise. Mercedes-Benz has also paid close attention to seating comfort. The seats are exceptionally comfortable and supportive, making long drives a pleasure. The leather upholstery is designed to reflect sunlight, and the front seats feature power operation with memory, as well as a forward-sliding and folding mechanism for easier access to the rear seats. While trunk space is limited, especially with the top down, a pass-through feature adds some practicality.
Image alt text: Close-up of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E 400 Cabriolet’s interior, highlighting the premium leather, wood trim, and meticulous craftsmanship.
Under the hood, the 2018 E 400 Cabriolet 4MATIC is equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine, paired with Mercedes-Benz’s 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The transmission includes a “sailing” feature designed to improve fuel efficiency by automatically shifting to neutral during coasting. The engine produces 329 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque. While Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-100 km/h time of 5.5 seconds, the power delivery feels adequate rather than exhilarating. The powertrain is generally refined and quiet, becoming more noticeable and slightly coarse only when pushed aggressively. This reinforces the car’s character as a comfortable cruiser rather than a performance-oriented machine.
Selecting Sport or Sport+ driving modes does sharpen throttle response, add weight to the steering, and make gear changes more aggressive. However, even in these modes, the driving experience remains more composed than truly thrilling.
The cabin of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E 400 Cabriolet is a testament to luxury and technological integration. Standard features include Nappa leather, open-pore dark ash wood trim, subtle ambient lighting, and a suite of advanced digital interfaces. The overall ambiance is one of sophisticated comfort and modern technology.
Image alt text: Interior view of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E 400 Cabriolet’s dashboard, emphasizing the dual 12.3-inch screens for instrumentation and infotainment.
Navigating the array of 21st-century electronics requires a learning curve. The system includes GPS navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and optional 12.3-inch widescreen instrument cluster with customizable display styles. A standard 12.3-inch central display is also included, controlled via the COMAND system with a touchpad. The car features advanced driver-assistance systems capable of traffic-following, steering assistance, lane-changing assistance, and emergency braking and maneuvering.
In conclusion, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E 400 4MATIC Cabriolet is undeniably beautiful and luxurious. It excels as a comfortable and technologically advanced convertible cruiser. While it may not deliver the most engaging driving experience for enthusiasts seeking dynamic performance, it offers a compelling blend of style, comfort, and cutting-edge technology, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing relaxed luxury and open-top motoring.
2018 Mercedes Benz E 400 4MATIC Cabriolet Specifications (As Tested):
- Base Price: $80,300
- Price as Tested: $92,700
- Engine: 3.0-litre twin turbo V-6 (329 horsepower/354 lb.-ft. of torque)
- 0-100 km/h: 5.5 seconds (factory figures)
- Transmission: nine-speed automatic
- Drive: all-wheel drive
- Fuel Economy (litres/100 km): 12.0 city/9.2 highway (premium fuel)
- Comparables: BMW 6-Series, Audi S5
Image alt text: Frontal perspective of a 2018 Mercedes-Benz E 400 Cabriolet highlighting its signature grille and LED headlights.
Optional Packages (As Tested):
- Premium Package ($4,800): 12.3-inch instrument cluster display, Burmester surround sound system, foot-activated trunk release, KEYLESS-GO, climate comfort front seats, rapid heating for front seats, heated front armrests, illuminated door sills.
- Intelligent Drive Package ($2,700): Active Distance Assist, DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, Active Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Function, Congestion Emergency Braking, Active Emergency Stop Assist, PRE-SAFE PLUS, Traffic Sign Assist.
- Multicontour front seats with massage ($1,800)
Key Standard Features: All-season power soft top, power front seats with memory, heated front seats, AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, AIRCAP system, dual-zone automatic climate control, 64-colour LED ambient lighting, 50/50 split-folding rear seats, electric trunk partition, power-folding side mirrors, KEYLESS-START, illuminated entry system, HomeLink garage door opener, 12.3-inch high-resolution central display, analog gauges with high-resolution multifunction display, COMAND system with touchpad controller, 3-spoke Touch Control steering wheel, COMAND online navigation, voice control, FrontBass system, SiriusXM Radio with six-month trial, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, hands-free Bluetooth interface, Bluetooth audio streaming, dual USB audio ports, HD Radio receiver, DYNAMIC SELECT, lowered suspension with selective damping system, ESP Dynamic Cornering Assist, Active Brake Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, rearview camera, LED daytime running lamps, LED headlamps and taillamps, Crosswind Assist, PRE-SAFE, 10 air bags, pop-up roll bars, Blind Spot Assist, adaptive braking technology, Active Parking Assist, SmartKey with KEYLESS-START, rain-sensing windshield wipers, MAGIC VISION CONTROL.
