The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has long been celebrated for its sophisticated design, luxurious comfort, and refined performance. For enthusiasts of the marque, the W212 generation, particularly the pre-facelift models from 2010, held a special appeal with its distinctive rectangular quad headlights and classic Mercedes-Benz styling cues. When the 2014 facelift was announced, there was a degree of anticipation and perhaps a little apprehension – could Mercedes-Benz improve upon what many considered a design pinnacle? Having spent time with the refreshed 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet, it’s clear that the update is not just a change, but an evolution that maintains the E-Class’s core strengths while injecting a modern aesthetic and enhanced appeal.
While the iconic quad headlights and the ponton-inspired rear fender flares of the pre-facelift W212 are no longer present, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet emerges as a remarkably handsome and cohesive vehicle. The design changes refine the lines, creating a smoother, more contemporary silhouette that still unmistakably belongs to the Mercedes-Benz family.
Having previously experienced the E-Class in various forms, including the earlier W211 and W212 sedans, and even the potent E550 Cabriolet variant of this 2014 refresh, the Mercedes-Benz E350 2014 Cabriolet offers a distinct driving experience. While the E550 boasted a formidable twin-turbo V8 with abundant torque, the E350 relies on a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. This powerplant delivers class-competitive power and a pleasing 엔진음 under spirited acceleration. The 7-speed automatic transmission, while not the quickest shifting in its class, is perfectly suited to the E350’s relaxed and luxurious character. It prioritizes smooth transitions and comfortable cruising, aligning perfectly with the car’s overall demeanor.
In a market increasingly saturated with vehicles chasing an aggressive “sporty” feel, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet stands out for its commitment to refined comfort. Even with the optional Sport package equipped on this test car, the enhancements were tastefully subtle: 18-inch AMG wheels, drilled pedals, and supportive multi-contour seats. Crucially, the package avoided any unnecessary stiffening of the suspension or overly aggressive steering tuning. The result is a car that provides precise handling and a composed ride while maintaining the essential isolation expected of a luxury vehicle. The cabin remains remarkably quiet with the top up, rivaling even fixed-roof coupes in sound insulation. Lowering the soft top reveals a pleasant open-air experience, remarkably free from disruptive wind drafts. The ride quality is consistently comfortable, and the chassis exhibits impressive solidity, with virtually no cowl shake or rattles even over imperfect road surfaces.
The sense of serenity extends into the cabin of the Mercedes-Benz E350 2014. While it may not feature the absolute cutting-edge technology found in ultra-high-end convertibles, the build quality and material selection are comparable to those significantly more expensive rivals. When positioned against competitors like a fully optioned BMW 4-Series convertible, which can easily reach similar price points, the E350 Cabriolet presents a compelling value proposition. Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system, praised for its intuitive layout and crisp graphics, remains a highlight. It avoids complex menu structures, presenting major functions in a clear, horizontal plane across the screen. The column-mounted gear selector, while unconventional to some, proves convenient and space-saving in the E350’s context. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters are still available for those desiring manual gear control. The overall interior design is elegant and crafted from high-quality materials, befitting the test car’s near-$75,000 price tag. For drivers prioritizing a relaxed and luxurious driving experience over overtly sporty dynamics, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet delivers exceptionally well, offering a refined open-top motoring experience that is quintessentially Mercedes-Benz.
