Page 25 - Motoring Summer 2021

MERCEDES-BENZ TEST REVIEW

Mercedes-Benz E300 Cabriolet

I
make no secret of my love for convertible cars, whether it’s rational or
not, and whether the purists will agree or not.
To me, getting any convertible on test is a special treat. This time round,
I even managed to fulfil a personal bucket list item of mine. Taking a trip,
top down all the way, to Parys on the Vaal for a leisurely lunch with three
passengers on board. This is my definition of living the life.
Of course, a Mercedes E-Class is not any old convertible. It has all the
luxury, all the safety, all the quality – and very adequate power from the
2l turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine as well. The 190kW and 370Nm provide
for superb cruising ability. Average fuel economy of 8.9l/100km for the
test period was very acceptable too.
As always, the test car was loaded with spec both as standard and
with extras, with all combining to create the luxurious aura. Top down
cruising is enhanced in all weather conditions by the ‘Air-scarf’ system
that provides warm air to your head and neck through vents in the front
headrests. According to my rear seat passengers, they could also feel the
benefits of this warm airflow.
Nothing in life is totally perfect and, as always, I must comment on
the Mercedes stalk gear selector. Once again, I just stopped myself from
using this when wanting to indicate a lane change.
The 9-speed automatic transmission offers multi-modes but I believe
this car is best suited to being left in comfort mode and allowed to
simply waft along the road.
The current list price is R1 276 640, with the test car at around
R1.5 million. The 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan is included. n

Click here for our full video review: https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=I5gkn0zpyJw

MOTORING | Summer 2021 | 23