E-Class alfresco

Mercedes-Benz has extended the E-Class variants already on offer, including the saloon, estate and coupé models, with the introduction of the new E-Class Cabriolet. Engineered according to a “four seasons, four personalities” motto, strong emphasis was placed on year-round suitability…

Set for a début at the Detroit Motor Show next month, the E-Class Cabriolet features a classic fabric roof, which is opened and closed within 20 seconds (at speeds of up to 40 km/h), and innovative technologies to make it as comfortable for its occupants no matter what the position of the soft-top.

Stowed in a special compartment just aft of the rear panel, the fabric roof is separated from the boot by a retractable cover that can be moved when the roof is closed to increase luggage room by almost 80 dm3. Speaking of increased space, a through-loading feature is standard, as is “Easy-entry”, a manually-operated entry and exit aid for the rear passengers.

The engine line-up is identical the rest of the E-Class range, with seven diesel and petrol engines that range from the 125 kW E 220 CDI BlueEfficiency four-cylinder diesel unit to the 285 kW E 500 V8 powerplant, but an SA-specific line-up has yet to be confirmed. Supplementing the fuel-saving technology of the new Mercedes-Benz engines, is the increased aerodynamic efficiency of the Cabriolet shape, claimed to be the best in its class.

Occupant comfort is ensured thanks to the inclusion of new features like the Aircap automatic draft-stop, which consists of a wind deflector and another screen between the rear seats that can be activated at speeds of up to 160 km/h, as well the optional Airscarf system that warms the occupants’ head and neck areas through vents in the front seat head restraints.

Safety specification includes seven airbags, belt force limiters for all four seats, crash-responsive head restraints for the driver and front passenger, and high-strength roll-over bars that extend from housings behind the rear head restraints when the tilting sensor detects imminent danger to the occupants, as well as Attention Assist drowsiness detection and Pre-Safe anticipatory occupant protection.

Set to go on sale in European and American markets in the first half of 2010, expect the E-Class Cabriolet to reach South Africa later in the year.

 

 

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