Mercedes-Benz officially launched its new E-Class cabriolet, set to go on sale in Europe in May 2010. It’s essentially identical in size to the E-Class Coupe and will be available with the same engine options as the coupe, a 3.5-liter V6 and 5.5-liter V8.

Mercedes has elected to use a 0.9-inch-thick fabric roof for the E-Class cabriolet that folds away into a special compartment behind the rear seat panel. A retractable cover separates the soft top compartment from the trunk area, and it must be closed in order to stow the roof. When the roof is closed, the cover can be slid rearwards. A pass-through loading feature is included as standard equipment for the new cabriolet, as is Easy-Entry — a manually operated entry and exit aid for the rear passengers.

Passengers are also likely to appreciate Mercedes’ new AirCap, a feature that consists of two components: a wind deflector that extends from the top of the windshield by 2.4 inches and a draft-stop between the rear seats. AirCap reduces the draft at speeds up to 160 km/h, making passengers more comfortable and able to hear each other talk when the top is down.

Also present is Mercedes-Benz’s Airscarf, a feature first introduced on the SL roadster, which shoots warm air around the neck through directable outlets in the front passengers’ head restraints. The E-Class convertible is also the first Mercedes cabrio to offer head airbags. Safety is further increased by reinforced A-pillars and other braces. The car will be on display at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show and features in the second Sex and the City film.

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