Car reviews

Open top cruising pleasure

Mercedes-Benz is continuing its tradition of high-calibre cabriolets by completing its E-Class family with the new EClass Cabriolet.This open four-seater with a classic fabric soft-top combines sensuous design with high long-distance comfort for four occupants.

The fabric soft-top is available in dark brown, dark blue, dark red or black. Fully automatic, the acoustic soft-top comes standard. Its multilayered structure with sophisticated insulation reduces wind and driving noise which makes it easy for the occupants to hear each other talk even when driving at high speed.The soft-top structure has an equally positive effect when it comes to climate comfort and makes the Cabriolet suitable for use all year round.

Derived from the S-Class Cabriolet, the soft-top also meets high-quality standards in terms of durability and operation. It can be fully opened and closed in 20 seconds when travelling at a speed of up to 50km/h. After opening, it folds down quietly and precisely and is stored in the soft-top compartment in the boot. A retractable cover separates the softtop from the remaining boot space. Thanks to the fully electrical control included in the optional Cabriolet Comfort package, the driver does not have to stop to operate the boot separator manually.The boot capacity is 385l (310l when the roof is open).

Maximum open-air comfort is possible in the E-Class Cabriolet thanks to the optional AIRCAP automatic draught-stop system and the AIRSCARF neck-level heating which make the fresh air much more enjoyable even at low outside temperatures. It consists of an electric

wind deflector module inconspicuously integrated into the roof frame and an electric draught stop behind the rear seats. At the press of a button, this system reduces the interior turbulence for the rear passengers too. AIRCAP is part of the Cabriolet Comfort package which also includes AIRSCARF neck-level heating for the driver and front passenger by circulating warm air around the neck area when temperatures are low outside.

There is initially a choice of powerful and efficient petrol and diesel engines, including a version with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive for the first time. As standard, all models are equipped with the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission which allows fast gearshifts and lower engine speeds.

In the event of an accident, the high structural safety of the body and the extensive array of restraint systems offer optimum protection. These include:

■ Pyrotechnic belt tensioners and belt force limiters on all front and rear seats.

■ PRE-SAFE® reversible belt tensioner on the front seats.

■ Front airbags for the driver and passenger.

■ A kneebag on the driver’s side.

■ Thorax/pelvis bags for the driver and front passenger

■ Airbags integrated into the top edge of the front door panels to protect the head in the event of severe side impacts.

The roll-over protection system has been developed specifically for the Cabriolet. It consists of two cartridges that are fully retracted behind the rear seats and therefore invisible. If a roll-over is imminent these cartridges are fired pyrotechnically, shooting out to provide a survival space together with the A-pillar. Active Brake Assist comes standard, warning the driver of an imminent collision, providing optimum support with emergency braking and, if necessary, also autonomously applies the brakes. In addition to slower-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles, it can also detect pedestrians crossing in the danger zone ahead of the vehicle.

Further highlights include the Driving Assistance package with the further developed Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC including Active Steering Assist – on all roads. It is not only able to keep the car the correct distance behind vehicles in front, but for the first time it can also follow them automatically at a speed of up to

210 km/h.