The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (A207) facelift, produced from June 2013 to July 2014, represented a refined iteration of the W207 series. The E 220 CDI variant, equipped with a 2.1-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 170 horsepower and paired with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, occupied a key position in the lineup as a fuel-efficient and comfortable grand tourer. This model aimed to balance performance with economy, appealing to buyers seeking a premium open-top experience without the higher running costs associated with more powerful engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class Cabrio (A207, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 220 CDI (170 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | June, 2013 |
| End of production | July, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8-5.9 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2-4.4 l/100 km (56 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8-4.9 l/100 km (49 – 48 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 126-128 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 3000-4200 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1400-2800 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.911 |
| Engine displacement | 2143 cm3 (130.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1760 kg (3880.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2305 kg (5081.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4703 mm (185.16 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2016 mm (79.37 in.) |
| Height | 1398 mm (55.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Rear track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Front overhang | 862 mm (33.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1081 mm (42.56 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.15 m (36.58 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size (Front/Rear) | 235/45 R17; 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 / 235/45 R17; 255/35 R18; 255/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size (Front/Rear) | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8J x 19; 8.5J x 19 / 7.5J x 17; 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 220 CDI Cabriolet was the OM 651.911, a 2.1-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine was a mainstay of the Mercedes-Benz lineup, known for its robust construction and fuel efficiency. It featured common-rail direct injection, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine employed a variable geometry turbocharger and an intercooler to boost power and torque. The twin-turbo setup helped to minimize turbo lag and provide a broad, usable powerband. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s characteristics. It offered smooth and quick shifts, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The transmission featured a torque converter lock-up clutch that engaged at higher speeds to improve efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The E 220 CDI Cabriolet offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 170 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque provided adequate performance for relaxed cruising and overtaking. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 8.3 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph). The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission was programmed for smooth shifts and prioritized fuel efficiency over aggressive downshifts. Compared to the more powerful E 350 or E 550 Cabriolet models, the E 220 CDI felt less urgent in its acceleration, but it offered significantly better fuel economy. The gear ratios were optimized for mid-range torque, making it easy to maintain speed on highways and in city traffic. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a balanced feel, although it wasn’t as engaging as some sportier convertibles.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 220 CDI Cabriolet typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium vehicle. Standard features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and a high-quality audio system. Optional extras included features like the AIRCAP system (which reduced turbulence in the cabin at higher speeds), the AIRSCARF system (which provided warm air around the neck and shoulders), and various driver assistance systems such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally offered upgrades in interior materials, exterior styling, and technology features. The Elegance trim focused on comfort and luxury, while the Avantgarde trim offered a sportier appearance and slightly firmer suspension.
Chassis & Braking
The A207 E-Class Cabriolet utilized a robust chassis designed to provide both comfort and rigidity. The front suspension featured a multi-link setup with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer bar. This configuration aimed to deliver a smooth ride and precise handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The car was equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution as standard safety features. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, providing a responsive and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 220 CDI Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its larger counterparts. Compared to the E 350 Cabriolet, the E 220 CDI offered significantly better fuel economy (around 48-49 mpg combined) but took nearly two seconds longer to reach 60 mph. The E 220 CDI also offered a more affordable entry point into the E-Class Cabriolet range, making it an attractive option for buyers who prioritized economy and comfort over outright speed. Reliability was generally good, with the OM 651 engine proving to be a durable and long-lasting unit.
Legacy
The E 220 CDI Cabriolet (A207) has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The OM 651 diesel engine is known for its longevity, and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is generally robust. However, as with any used vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of potential maintenance issues, such as diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging and turbocharger wear. Today, these cars represent a good value for those seeking a comfortable and stylish open-top experience, offering a blend of luxury, fuel efficiency, and relatively low running costs. The A207 generation, and specifically the E 220 CDI variant, remains a popular choice for those seeking a refined and practical convertible.
