Quick Take: 2021 Mercedes-Benz E53 Cabriolet
As we were at the Western Automotive Journalists Media Days event in scenic Half Moon Bay, we wanted to get behind the wheel of a convertible to fully take in the environment and the wonderful weather. Due to this, when we had an opportunity to get some seat time in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E53 cabriolet, we took it. Having been significantly updated for the 2021 model year along with the rest of the E-Class range (sedan, coupe, and station wagon), we wanted to find out how good the E53 was to drive.
Our E53 cabriolet test car came very well equipped with options such as multicontour heated and ventilated front seats with a massaging function as well as the Driver Assistance Package which brings DISTRONIC distance assist, active steering assist, active brake assist, active lane change assist, and active lane keeping assist, among other preventive safety features. A 12.3-inch instrument cluster display, another 12.3-inch display for the MBUX infotainment system, an AIRSCARF system for keeping the neck warm when the top is down, and a fantastic 13-speaker Burmester sound system came standard.
The E53 AMG comes with a 429-horsepower turbocharged inline-six cylinder engine with EQ Boost, which sends electric power to the drivetrain to provide extra torque when needed. Driving up and down Highway 1, we enjoyed the experience that the E53 provided, with plenty of power on tap and a sonorous exhaust note thanks to the AMG performance exhaust system that our test car was optioned with. In addition, even though the E53 is a sport-oriented AMG model, the ride on our test car was terrific and the ride was never bumpy, likely because the suspension is based on Mercedes-Benz’s Air Body Control technology.
All in all, the E53 AMG Cabriolet is everything that shoppers want a four-place convertible to be. It was comfortable when we needed it to be yet provided a high level of performance whenever we wanted it. Those looking for a new convertible in the garage will get a kick out of driving the E53 with its numerous high-tech features, powerful motor, and pleasant nature.
