2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet World Debut in Detroit

Mercedes has officially unveiled the redesigned E-Class Cabrio at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Based on the award winning E-Class Coupe, the Carbio combines sexy styling with a retractable canvas roof. Speaking of the latter, the roof was specially designed to provide "one of the quietest interiors in the segment for four-seater premium cabriolets with a fabric roof." It's so quiet, Mercedes promises that owners will be able to a have "perfectly normal" phone conversation at speeds exceeding 125 mph.

Should you choose to lower the roof, you'll be happy to find the E-Class Cabrio has been outfitted with AIRSCARF (a neck-level heating system) and the new AIRCAP system. Essentially a windshield-mounted air deflector (which can extend 2.4 inches), the AIRCAP system redirects the air flow above the interior. This results in a nearly draft free environment, which allows for reduced interior noise levels.

European engine options will include the 125 kW (170 hp) E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, the 150 kW (204 hp) E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, the 170 kW (231 hp) E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, the 135 kW (184 hp) E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY, the 150 kW (204 hp) E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY, the 215 kW (292 hp) E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY, and the 285 kW (387 hp) E 500.

In the U.S. two initial engines will be available:

• E350 Cabriolet: 268 hp / 258 lb-ft.
• E550 Cabriolet: 382 hp/ 391 lb-ft.

Look for the new E-Class Cabrio to start arriving at dealerships this May in the U.S. (March 27th in Europe).

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