German automaker Mercedes-Benz has launched its latest addition to the E-Class line-up in the Middle East and Levant.

The open-top two-door model features a classic fabric soft top and a range of new fuel-efficient engines.

"With the new Cabriolet we are finalising our successful E-Class family with yet another emotionally appealing model,” said Frank Bernthaler, director, sales and marketing, Mercedes-Benz Middle East & Levant.

The soft top can be opened and closed fully automatically within 20 seconds – even when driving at speeds of up to 40 km/hr, said a statement.

The cabriolet roof is stowed in a special compartment behind the rear panel. A retractable cover separates the soft top compartment from the boot area which must be closed in order to close the soft top. If the roof is to remain closed, the cover can be slid rearwards, in which case the boot capacity is increased by 90 litres to 390 litres.

It also features the Aircap automatic draught-stop, which can be activated at the push of a button, greatly reducing turbulence in the interior. Aircap consists of two components: a wind deflector that can be extended by around six centimetres with a net in the windscreen frame and a draught-stop between the rear seats.

As well as enhancing occupant comfort and wellbeing, the reduction in draught when Aircap is activated reduces the interior noise level so passengers in all seats find it far easier to communicate.

The acoustic soft top, fitted as standard, allows for one of the quietest interiors in the segment for four-seater premium cabriolets with a fabric roof, the statement said.

The powerplants for the new E-Class Cabriolet range from the E200 CGI to an E 500 producing 388 bhp.

Low fuel consumption has not only been achieved because of the new engines, but also with a number of other practical measures. These include on-demand activation of the steering and fuel pumps, the use of tyres with low rolling resistance and an alternator control system which takes account of the current driving situation and the vehicle's electrical power requirements.

The Cabriolet's cd (coefficient of drag) figure of 0.28 is the best in its class, the statement added.

Roll-over protection consists of two robust bars, each with a diameter of 35 mm, which are housed in the rear head restraints in modules behind the rear seat backrests. A tilting cone sensor detects imminent danger to the occupants based on extreme skidding movements or acceleration caused by impact.

If this sensor then sends a corresponding signal, pre-tensioned pressure springs are activated extremely quickly by pyrotechnic means.

Consequently, both roll-over bars in the rear head restraints are extended. They reach their highest point and are locked automatically within a fraction of a second. In combination with the robust A-pillars, each of which is reinforced with two high-strength steel tubes, the steel bars provide highly effective roll-over protection.

Further safety equipment available for the E-Class Cabriolet includes Attention Assist drowsiness detection, Pre-Safe anticipatory occupant protection, the intelligent light system and Distronic Plus proximity control, the statement said. – TradeArabia News Service