The entire range of refreshed Mercedes-Benz E Class models is set to debut at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show, but Mercedes-Benz has opted to release images of its latest E Class Coupe and Cabriolet in advance. Like the already-shown E Class Sedan, the two-door models get subtle but tasteful exterior styling tweaks, since E Class buyers (like BMW 3 Series buyers) don’t appreciate radical change.
2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe – image: Mercedes-Benz
If change isn’t for you, you’ll like what Mercedes has done with the 2014 E Class Coupe and Cabriolet. The front end is the most significant revision, as it stays true to the artful design of the 2014 E Class Sedan. Oddly enough, Mercedes has opted to keep the pontoon rear fenders, a design trait we like even less on two door models than we did on the sedan.
2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe – image: Mercedes-Benz
Inside changes mostly fall into the minor category as well. There’s a new design for the steering wheel, redesigned air vents, chrome-finished switchgear and a Direct Select shift lever that replaces last year’s console-mounted gear selector. Cabriolet models get an acoustically-insulated soft top, making them the quietest convertibles in the segment.
2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet – image: Mercedes-Benz
Coupe and convertible models are available with a 3.5-liter V-6, rated at 302 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, or with a 4.6-liter, twin-turbo V-8 rated at 402 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. The Coupe is also available with Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive, but only when paired with the 3.5-liter V-6.
2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet – image: Mercedes-Benz
New standard features for 2014 include Collision Prevention Assist, which includes both a radar-based warning system and an adaptive braking system; Eco Start/Stop; Attention Assist 2.0 and the Direct Select shifter. New options include Distronic Plus cruise control (now with steering assist), Pre-Safe braking with pedestrian detection, a blind spot detection system and Active Parking Assist.
2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet – image: Mercedes-Benz
Look for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E Class Coupe and Cabriolet to hit dealers next summer.
Kurt Ernst has been passionate about automobiles and driving nearly his entire life. His early years were shaped working in the family service station, though his real passion was auto racing. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Kurt spent a year club racing with the Sports Car Club of America, before focusing on a business career in marketing and project management. Later, his passion for writing and the automotive hobby found him freelancing for a variety of automotive news sites, including Automotive Addicts and Motor Authority, where his work was syndicated and appeared in several national publications. Recognized as an expert in the automotive field, Kurt joined Hemmings Motor News as an Associate Editor in 2013, and in the years since has progressed to Editor, Hemmings Daily; Managing Editor for Hemmings Motor News, Hemmings Classic Car, Hemmings Muscle Machines, and the Hemmings Daily; and now, Managing Editor, Hemmings Auctions. Kurt was instrumental in organizing the Hemmings Motor News Concours d’Elegance from 2013-2019, and has served as a judge at this event and The Vintage Racing Stable Concours d’Elegance. A Skip Barber Racing School graduate and prolific writer, Ernst is also skilled in copyediting, project management, brand development, and public relations.
