Mercedes Debuts E-Class Cabriolet Ahead of Detroit

There has been a bit of a pre-Christmas lull in automotive news, but everything is set to return in full force with the the North American International Auto Show taking place next month.

Mercedes-Benz is making use of the opportunity to release information and pictures on the new E-Class Cabriolet.

The new E-Class Cabriolet is the replacement for the vehicle previously known as the CLK Cabriolet. For this generation, Mercedes is calling them E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet, despite still being based on the smaller C-Class model.

The Cabriolet is a traditional convertible, using a fabric soft top, but that doesn't mean that it isn't technologically advanced. Mercedes has a motto of  "four seasons, four personalities" with the Cabriolet, and there are a number of things that are designed to demonstrate that.

The Cabriolet debuts AIRCAP, a system aimed at reducing turbulence in the cabin at speed. It uses a a wind deflector 2.4 inches that extends from the windshield and a frame, along with a draft-stop between the rear seats. This system is good for speeds up to 100 mph.

Another system is AIRSCARF (it debuted in 2004 on the SL Convertible), which acts as an "invisible scarf" warming the head and neck areas of an occupant via nozzles in the head restraint. Far as safety goes, the Cabriolet also has head airbags (the first in a Mercedes convertible).

Being the same standard E-Class we've known about for a long time in other areas, these convertible-specific technologies are the things to write home about.

The engines and model lineup is straightforward: there are two trim levels, E350 Cabriolet and E550 Cabriolet. The ES350 is powered by a  268 horsepower, 258 pound-feet V-6 and theE550 a 382 hp, 391 lb-ft V-8. The Cabriolet goes on sale in May of next year, just in time for summer!