As a long-time admirer of the W212 generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class that debuted in 2010, the announcement of a 2014 facelift model raised some initial concerns. The pre-facelift W212, with its distinctive rectangular quad headlights and pronounced rear fender flares, was, in my view and many others, arguably the most aesthetically pleasing Mercedes-Benz sedan in recent history. The question was: why alter such a successful design? However, those worries proved unfounded. While the iconic quad headlights and the ponton-esque rear fenders were indeed revised, the result is a remarkably cohesive and undeniably handsome vehicle that maintains the E-Class’s sophisticated appeal.
Having spent considerable time behind the wheel of various E-Class models, including both W212 and W211 versions of the E350 sedan (thanks to family ownership), and even the pre-facelift 2014 E550 Cabriolet, I have a solid basis for comparison. The E550 Cabriolet, with its twin-turbo V8 delivering a robust 440 lb-ft of torque from a mere 1600 rpm, offered truly exhilarating performance – the kind that only forced induction can provide. In contrast, the E350 model we’re focusing on here relies on a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. While it lacks the E550’s outright punch, the E350’s powertrain is far from disappointing. The 7-speed automatic transmission, while perhaps not as lightning-quick in its shifts as some competitors, complements the E-Class’s inherently relaxed and luxurious character. The V6 engine delivers competitive power and torque figures for its class, accompanied by a satisfying induction growl when you demand more from the throttle.
In today’s automotive landscape, where many upscale vehicles are unnecessarily infused with an overly aggressive “sportiness,” driving the E350 Cabriolet is a welcome breath of fresh air. While our test car was equipped with the optional Sport package, its enhancements were tastefully restrained, limited to attractive 18-inch AMG wheels, sporty drilled pedals, and supportive multi-contour seats. Crucially, it avoided the pitfalls of a harsh, overly firm suspension or artificially heavy, adjustable steering. This restraint ultimately makes the E350 a superior car. It navigates the road with precision and composure, yet maintains the essential layer of isolation and comfort that defines a true luxury vehicle. With the top raised, the cabin is remarkably quiet, exceeding expectations for a fabric-roofed convertible. Lowering the top reveals a cabin that is commendably free of disruptive wind buffeting. The ride quality remains comfortable and composed, with the chassis exhibiting virtually no cowl shake or rattles, even over uneven road surfaces.
This sense of tranquility and refinement extends to the interior. While it may not boast all the cutting-edge technology and features found in ultra-high-end convertibles costing well into six figures, the build quality and material selection of the E350 Cabriolet feel every bit as premium as those pricier rivals. When compared to competitors like a fully optioned BMW 4-Series convertible, which can easily surpass $70,000, the larger E-Class holds its own impressively. Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system remains a personal favorite in the luxury segment, thanks to its sharp graphics and intuitive user interface. It avoids the frustratingly complex submenus that plague some competing systems, instead presenting major functions across a clear horizontal plane on the screen. The column-mounted gear selector might not appeal to everyone, but in a car designed for relaxed cruising like the E350 Cabriolet, it feels perfectly appropriate. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters are still available for those occasions when manual gear changes are desired. The rest of the interior is crafted from high-quality materials and features an elegant design that befits our test car’s as-tested price of just under $75,000. For drivers seeking a smooth, comfortable, and genuinely luxurious open-top experience without succumbing to someone else’s definition of “sportiness,” the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet remains an excellent 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 fuel by Mercedes-Benz. Photos by the author.
