Three new trims join the Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineup for 2011, starting with the open-air E350 Cabriolet and the E550 Cabriolet. These sleek convertibles retain the E-Class's angular yet aerodynamic design, highlighted by an arrow-shaped hood, dual twin front headlights, wraparound illuminated taillights, and a sculpted rear end.

In addition, the Cabriolets come equipped with a new soft top featuring the automaker's new AIRCAP system, which uses a wind deflector and a clear, powered draught-stop panel located between the rear headrests to reduce interior turbulence when the top is down. The convertible soft top measures nearly 1 inch thick and features three layers to ensure a quiet cabin. Both the soft top and the AIRCAP system activate at the press of a button.

Mercedes-Benz also adds the new 4Matic Wagon to the E-Class stable for 2011. The E350 4Matic Wagon displays a similar sculpted exterior with a contoured rear end that draws its inspiration from the Ponton Mercedes of the 1950s. The Wagon's wrap-around LED taillights bracket a power liftgate in the rear.

Now in its ninth generation, the E-Class family also includes the E350 Sedan and Coupe, as well as the E550 Sedan and Coupe, which carry over from the previous year unchanged. The E-Class received a full makeover in 2010, which included a restyled exterior, a meticulously crafted interior, and refined engines with improved fuel efficiency. In addition, Mercedes introduced a new seven-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide quicker acceleration and smoother cruising as well as improved fuel efficiency. The transmission includes the Touch Shift feature, which enables drivers to shift manually using steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

A 268-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine powers the E350 Cabriolet and the E350 4Matic Wagon, as well as the E350 Sedan and Coupe. The V6 engine produces 258 lb-ft of torque and features sequential electronic fuel injection, which helps improve fuel efficiency. Equipped with the V6, the E350 Cabriolet accelerates from 0-60 in 6.4 seconds and manages fuel economy of 17/25 mpg, while the heavier Wagon reaches 60 mph in 7.0 seconds and checks in at 16/23 mpg.

The E550 Cabriolet provides more muscle, thanks to its lightweight 5.5-liter V8 engine, which also powers the E550 Sedan and Coupe. The V8 generates 382 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque, driving the E550 Cabriolet from 0-60 in 5.1 seconds. The V8 posts fuel economy numbers of 15/22 mpg.

Inside, the 2011 E-Class trims come well-equipped with such upscale features as burl walnut wood trim, 14-way power-adjustable front seats, power-adjustable front and rear headrests, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic climate control, and an eight-speaker AM/FM audio system with a 6-CD/DVD changer. The Cabriolets come standard with leather seats, while owners can add premium leather seats as an option to the Wagon. Other options include heated front seats and a navigation system with a hard drive.

The Wagon seats up to seven passengers in three rows, and includes a rear parking aid with a camera as standard equipment. Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, which comes standard on the Wagon, helps ensure optimal traction and stability on all types of road surfaces. A full range of safety features, including electronic stability control and nine airbags, comes standard on all E-Class trims.