The Mercedes-Benz E-Class of the W212 generation is a vehicle I know well, having experienced it in various forms – from the practical sedan and sleek coupe to the open-air cabriolet – throughout its production run starting in 2009. As we stand on the cusp of a new generation, this review serves as a fitting tribute to one of Mercedes-Benz’s most accomplished and well-rounded vehicles.
This isn’t hyperbole; the E-Class has consistently embodied the core values of the Mercedes-Benz brand more effectively than its siblings, the smaller C-Class and the larger S-Class. It strikes the perfect balance in size, offering an interior that is both comfortable and spacious, matched by a proportionate exterior. The engine options are superb, ranging from economical four-cylinder diesels to powerful turbocharged V8s, and it boasts a variety of body styles, including the increasingly rare station wagon. Crucially, and perhaps subject to change with the newer models, the W212 E-Class remains relatively accessible in price. A well-equipped E350 sedan can often be found for a price comparable to a loaded BMW 3-Series.
While the E-Class sedan embodies practicality, the cabriolet version is an indulgence of passion. It comfortably seats four adults and offers a smooth ride, retaining a degree of sensibility that could make it a primary vehicle for some owners. However, convertibles, by their nature, lean towards the impractical, and the E400 Cabriolet, with its compact trunk and premium price tag, certainly reinforces this notion.
Yet, I remain unconvinced that the E400 Cabriolet, as tested here, couldn’t serve admirably as an everyday car. Its comfort is exceptional, delivering a ride quality that remains largely undisturbed by imperfect road surfaces. While there’s a slight tremor over rough patches, it’s far from unsettling. The dashboard, though familiar, still exudes quality construction and intuitive usability. The multi-adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats are simply outstanding. They offer features like neck-warming air vents, seat heating and cooling, and comprehensive lumbar support, ensuring comfort on extended journeys. Even with the top down, your hairstyle remains intact thanks to the remarkably low levels of wind turbulence in the cabin.
These desirable qualities are also found in the E350 Cabriolet I reviewed previously. The key difference, as hinted at by the model designation change, lies in the E400’s engine – a potent V6. While slightly smaller in displacement than the E350’s engine by 0.5 liters, the ‘400’ moniker is justified by the addition of twin turbochargers. This results in a power increase of 27 horsepower and a substantial 81 lb-ft of torque, improvements that are palpable with even a gentle press of the accelerator. Fuel efficiency also sees a boost, with this more powerful engine achieving an additional 3 MPG compared to the previous year’s model.
In real-world driving, the E400 isn’t a muscle car, but it is deceptively quick rather than overtly fast. It possesses ample power to confidently keep pace with competitors like the BMW 435i or Infiniti Q60. The same smooth-shifting 7-speed automatic transmission from the E350 is present and remains the sole transmission option, typical of Mercedes-Benz. While paddle shifters are available behind the steering wheel, they feel somewhat superfluous in this car. Pushing the E400 to its performance limits seems counter to its relaxed and refined character. It’s far more rewarding to dial back the intensity and appreciate the quiet competence that the Cabriolet effortlessly projects.
With a new E-Class generation on the horizon, we can anticipate a range of enhancements – greater power, improved efficiency, increased size yet reduced weight, enhanced safety features – but it’s questionable whether the new model will capture the quintessential “Benz” feel as effectively as this current generation. With a test price nearing $75,000, the E400 Cabriolet is undoubtedly a significant investment, but it’s hard to name another vehicle that so perfectly embodies the classic Mercedes-Benz values. The upcoming generation E-Class has a high benchmark to surpass.
