As a long-time admirer of the W212 generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the announcement of the 2014 facelift sparked a mix of anticipation and apprehension. The pre-facelift W212, with its distinctive rectangular quad headlights and classic ponton-style rear fenders, had set a high bar for design elegance in the modern Mercedes-Benz lineup. The question was: could the facelift enhance, or would it diminish, the inherent appeal of this iconic sedan? Thankfully, after experiencing the 2014 Mercedes-benz E 350, it’s clear that Mercedes-Benz has successfully refined an already exceptional vehicle, creating a car that is both contemporary and timeless.
Having spent considerable time behind the wheel of various E-Class models, including the W211 and the pre-facelift W212 E 350 sedan, as well as the exhilarating 2014 E 550 Cabriolet, I came to this review with a solid understanding of the E-Class DNA. The E 550, with its twin-turbo V8, delivered breathtaking performance, boasting a staggering 440 lb-ft of torque available from a mere 1600 rpm. While the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 350 forgoes forced induction, its 3.5-liter V6 engine is far from underwhelming. It provides ample power and torque to confidently navigate city streets and cruise effortlessly on highways. The 7-speed automatic transmission, while not the quickest-shifting in its class, complements the E 350’s relaxed and refined character. The engine also delivers a pleasing induction growl when you demand more from the throttle, adding a touch of sportiness to the otherwise serene driving experience.
In an automotive landscape increasingly focused on overt sportiness, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 350 stands out for its commitment to comfort and composed driving dynamics. Even with the optional Sport package equipped on this test vehicle, the enhancements were tastefully restrained. The package included attractive 18-inch AMG wheels, sporty drilled pedals, and supportive multi-contour seats. Crucially, it avoided unnecessary additions like a harsh sports suspension or overly aggressive steering tuning. This restraint is precisely what makes the E 350 so appealing. It delivers a driving experience that is both precise and isolated, a hallmark of a true luxury car. The cabin remains remarkably quiet, even with the convertible top up, rivaling the serenity of many hardtop vehicles. With the top down, drafts are minimal, allowing for open-air enjoyment without excessive wind disturbance. The ride quality is consistently comfortable, and the chassis exhibits impressive rigidity, effectively minimizing scuttle shake and rattles, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces.
The sense of tranquility extends to the interior of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 350. While it may not boast all the cutting-edge technology found in ultra-luxury convertibles, the cabin exudes a quality and craftsmanship that rivals those pricier counterparts. Compared to competitors like a fully optioned BMW 4-Series convertible, which can easily reach similar price points, the E 350 offers a more substantial and luxurious experience. Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system remains a personal favorite, praised for its intuitive interface and crisp display. It avoids overwhelming menus, presenting major functions in a logical and accessible horizontal layout. The column-mounted gear selector, while unconventional to some, feels perfectly suited to the E 350 Cabriolet’s relaxed demeanor. For those seeking manual gear control, steering wheel-mounted paddles are readily available. The cabin materials are of high quality, and the overall design is both elegant and functional, befitting the test vehicle’s near-$75,000 price tag. For drivers who prioritize a smooth, unruffled driving experience and value genuine luxury over forced sportiness, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 350 is an exceptional choice.
2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet Specs (as tested):
- Base price: $61,125
- Price as tested: $74,755
- Options: Palladium Silver metallic paint, Deep Sea Blue/Silk Beige Nappa Leather, Wood/Leather steering wheel, rear spoiler, high-performance tires, Premium 1 Package, Lighting package, Sport package, Parking Assist package, Driver Assistance package
- Powertrain: 3.5-liter V6 engine, 7-speed automatic transmission
- Horsepower: 302 hp
- Torque: 273 lb-ft
- Observed fuel economy: 22.1 mpg
Vehicle provided for testing with one tank of gas. Photos by the author.
