For Entry-level model and, in manual form, the only one with stop-start. Direct-injection turbo engine delivers decent torque across a wide band, while standard suspension ensures a cossetting, relaxed ride.
Against The engine's a bit gruff when revved, so just settle back and take it easy. Aircap wind deflector works brilliantly, but takes the edge off the car's looks – and it's a real flytrap.
The best mid-sized convertible of all for four-up top-down motoring, and this is an economical way to go about it. All the better for having the standard suspension set-up.
The trouble with four-seater convertibles is that they're only fun if you're in one of the front seats. Anyone in the back is likely to look as if they've been pulled through a hedge backwards after a trip with the top down.
Not so the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet. With its standard Aircap system – pop-up wind deflectors on top of the windscreen and between the rear headrests – you sit in what Mercedes calls 'a bath of warm air', free of the buffeting found in rival convertibles. It doesn't exactly add to the car's looks, but from the inside you're not going to be worried about that.
In other respects it pretty much offers the same choices as the E-Class Coupé. There are seven engine choices, manual and automatic transmissions and standard or sport suspension set-ups.