Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet: first details
16.12.2009 - Dominic Sacco
(15)
Mercedes has revealed pictures and details of its new E-Class Cabriolet. As the spiritual successor to the CLK convertible, the new soft top E-class will sit alongside the E-Class saloon, estate and coupe.
Buyers can choose between a 268bhp 3.5-litre V6 and a 382bhp 5.5-litre V8, which send the new drop-top from 0-60mph in 6.5 seconds and 5 seconds respectively.
New features inside include a sound-dampening fabric roof, 'Airscarf' neck-level heating system and an 'Aircap' draught-stop button, which Mercedes says "reduces turbulence for all four seat occupants." This can be used at speeds of up to 100mph to reduce wind noise. A wind deflector can be extended to further reduce drag.
Mercedes claims the thermally-insulated roof can be open and closed automatically in 20 seconds, when driving at less than 25mph.
The E-Class Cabriolet also boasts roll-over protection, which uses an impact sensor, pressure springs and steel B-pillars to increase safety.
There are also front airbags, sidebags, a driver's knee-bag, thorax-bags and head-bags - a first for a Mercedes convertible - and rear side-bags are available as an option.
Other extras include attention assist, drowsiness detection, anticipatory occupant protection, adjustable neck heaters and adaptive highbeam headlight assist.
Prices have not yet been announced, but buyers can expect to pay between £29,000 and £33,000. The Mercedes E-Class convertible goes on sale in May 2010.
