Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (10 on) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Last Updated: 16 June 2010
Mercedes claims the E-Class Cabriolet is not a direct replacement for the outgoing CLK, but it is. Why they want to deny the lineage is not certain, but what is clear is the new E-Class soft-top is every inch the stylish, classy successor Mercedes needs to keep buyers happy. With styling derived from the E-Class Coupe, the Cabriolet is, if anything, even better looking and offers seating for four and a good-sized boot. Passenger and luggage space are helped by the E-Class Cabriolet sticking with a fabric roof rather than a CC-style metal and glass arrangement. The fabric roof also helps to save weight, while Merc’s new AirCap system that uses a small spoiler that rises from the windscreen top rail saves the car’s occupants from being blown about at higher speeds when the roof is lowered. Aside from this, the E-Class Cabrio is packed with most of the same high-tech gadgets and safety gizmos as the saloon.
4 out of 5

Other Mercedes-Benz reviews

4 out of 5

Running costs

For a convertible of this calibre, the E-Class is not unduly expensive to own or run. Mercedes-Benz servicing is expensive, but this is offset by most engines being surprisingly frugal and easy on emissions, so long as you avoid the E500 and its V8 motor it needn't cost the earth. Insurance isn’t cheap but it is on a par with alternatives, while the E-Class Cabriolet should depreciate at a slow rate.

* based on most recent data

Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles per year

Unleaded

£1,461 - £2,922 *

Diesel

£1,165 - £1,644 *

The estimated fuel cost figure is a guide to how much this model will cost to fuel each year, so you can compare between cars. It's calculated by using the model's average mpg (calculated from both town centre and motorway driving) and the average fuel price. It's based on the following cost-per-litre: petrol 135p and diesel 141p. Prices are updated daily.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

Variable according to onboard computer.

Warranty

Three years/unlimited miles.

Road tax (12 months)

£120.00 - £475.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

3.5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
    135
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
  • J
  • K
  • L
  • M
    257

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

With the exception of the E500 V8 model, every model uses Mercedes-Benz's BlueEFFICIENCY technology to lessen emissions and improve economy. The power steering and fuel pump only work when required, while the battery is only charged when it needs it. The E200 CGI petrol will also be offered with a start/stop function with the six-speed manual gearbox to further reduce emissions. Across the range, emissions and economy compare well with key alternatives from Audi and BMW.

Find the exact engine and CO2