The Mercedes-Benz E 350d Cabriolet (A207, facelift 2013) represents a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency within the E-Class range. Produced from September 2015 to March 2017, this variant featured a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine paired with a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. It occupied a mid-to-upper position in the Cabriolet lineup, offering a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the base models, while remaining more accessible than the high-performance AMG variants. This model was primarily aimed at the European market, where diesel engines held a strong preference due to their fuel economy and torque characteristics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class Cabrio (A207, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 350d V6 (258 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | September, 2015 |
| End of production | March, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.2-6.5 l/100 km (37.9 – 36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8-5.2 l/100 km (49 – 45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3-5.6 l/100 km (44.4 – 42 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 139-148 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 3400 rpm |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 642.838 |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2345 kg (5169.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 25 l (6.6 US gal | 5.5 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4703 mm (185.16 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2016 mm (79.37 in.) |
| Height | 1398 mm (55.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Rear track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Front overhang | 862 mm (33.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1081 mm (42.56 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.15 m (36.58 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size (Front) | 235/45 R17; 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Tires size (Rear) | 235/45 R17; 255/35 R18; 255/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size (Front) | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8J x 19; 8.5J x 19 |
| Wheel rims size (Rear) | 7.5J x 17; 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 350d Cabriolet is the OM 642.838 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine. This engine is a member of the OM 642 family, known for its robust construction and refined operation. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine features a single turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 258 horsepower at 3400 rpm and a substantial 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 2400 rpm. The engine employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and efficiency. The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a nine-speed unit, was specifically designed to maximize fuel economy and provide smooth, responsive shifts. It features a wide gear ratio spread, allowing the engine to operate within its optimal torque band more frequently.
Driving Characteristics
The E 350d Cabriolet offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its gasoline-powered siblings or the higher-performance AMG models. The abundant low-end torque from the diesel engine provided effortless acceleration in everyday driving situations. While not as outright quick as the gasoline variants, the E 350d delivered a strong and confident surge of power, making overtaking maneuvers easy and relaxed. The 9G-TRONIC transmission contributed to a smooth and refined driving experience, with seamless gear changes. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, but also provided ample power for highway cruising and spirited driving. Compared to a manual transmission, the automatic offered convenience and reduced driver fatigue, but at the expense of some driver engagement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 350d Cabriolet typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a power-operated soft top. Optional extras included features like advanced driver-assistance systems (such as lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control), upgraded interior trim materials, and a larger infotainment screen. The dashboard layout was typical of Mercedes-Benz, with a focus on elegance and functionality. Interior color options were varied, allowing customers to personalize their vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The E 350d Cabriolet utilized a sophisticated suspension system designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension featured coil springs and an independent multi-link setup with a transverse stabilizer bar. The rear suspension employed an independent multi-link spring suspension, also with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provided a comfortable ride while minimizing body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 350d Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. The fuel economy was a significant selling point, particularly in Europe. Compared to the E 250d Cabriolet (with a lower-powered diesel engine), the E 350d offered a noticeable performance upgrade. Compared to the gasoline-powered E 350 Cabriolet, the E 350d provided superior fuel economy and torque, but slightly less outright horsepower. Reliability was generally good, although diesel engines can be more susceptible to issues with the fuel injection system and particulate filter over time.
Legacy
The OM 642 engine family, including the version used in the E 350d Cabriolet, has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. Well-maintained examples continue to provide years of service. On the used car market, the E 350d Cabriolet remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a luxurious and fuel-efficient convertible. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with diesel engines, such as the particulate filter and fuel injectors. The 9G-TRONIC transmission has also proven to be generally reliable, but regular fluid changes are essential to ensure its longevity. Overall, the E 350d Cabriolet represents a well-engineered and refined vehicle that continues to offer a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency.
