The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (A207) facelift, produced from June 2013 to March 2017, represented a blend of luxury, performance, and open-air driving enjoyment. The E 250 variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 211 horsepower and paired with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, occupied a significant position in the model range. It served as a more accessible entry point into the E-Class Cabriolet experience, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and respectable performance compared to its more powerful six and eight-cylinder siblings. This model was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a stylish and comfortable convertible without the higher price tag and running costs associated with the larger engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class Cabrio (A207, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 250 (211 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | June, 2013 |
| End of production | March, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.9-8.2 l/100 km (29.8 – 28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2-5.4 l/100 km (45.2 – 43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2-6.4 l/100 km (37.9 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 144-148 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 245 km/h (152.24 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 211 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1200-4000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1200-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 274.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2235 kg (4927.33 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 250 Cabriolet was the M 274.920 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was a member of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, featuring direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. The turbocharger design minimized turbo lag and provided a broad torque curve. The engine utilized a DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved performance. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission was a key component, offering smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission featured a torque converter lock-up clutch to reduce slippage and improve fuel economy. The transmission was programmed with comfort and sport modes, allowing drivers to tailor the shift points to their driving style.
Driving Characteristics
The E 250 Cabriolet provided a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the E 350 or E 550 models, the 211 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque were sufficient for relaxed cruising and confident overtaking. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributed to smooth acceleration, and the relatively low weight of the four-cylinder engine helped to maintain a balanced chassis. The gear ratios were optimized for both fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other E-Class models, the automatic prioritized ease of use and comfort over outright driver engagement. The power delivery was linear, with peak torque available from a low 1200 rpm, making it well-suited for everyday driving situations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 250 Cabriolet typically came standard with features such as leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a power-retractable soft top. Optional extras included features like the AIRMATIC air suspension system, which provided a more comfortable ride, and various driver-assistance systems such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Interior trim options included a variety of wood and aluminum finishes. The dashboard layout was typical of the A207 generation E-Class, with a focus on elegant design and user-friendly controls. Packages like the Premium Package added features like navigation, upgraded audio, and keyless entry.
Chassis & Braking
The E 250 Cabriolet utilized a multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front suspension featured coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension also incorporated a stabilizer bar. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESP) were standard features, enhancing safety and control. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion type with power assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 250 Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics as a sensible and stylish option within the E-Class range. It offered a good balance of performance, fuel economy, and luxury features. Compared to the more powerful E 350 and E 550 models, the E 250 was more affordable to purchase and operate. However, some reviewers noted that the four-cylinder engine lacked the refinement and power of its larger counterparts. Fuel economy figures were competitive for its class, and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributed to efficient driving. Reliability was generally good, although like any complex vehicle, preventative maintenance was crucial.
Legacy
The M 274 engine family, including the one used in the E 250 Cabriolet, has proven to be relatively reliable over the long term, provided it receives regular maintenance. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also known for its durability. In the used car market, the E 250 Cabriolet represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a luxury convertible at a more accessible price point. While it may not offer the same level of performance as the higher-end models, it provides a comfortable, stylish, and enjoyable driving experience. The A207 generation E-Class Cabriolet, including the E 250 variant, remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and those seeking a refined open-air driving experience.
