2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet to Debut at 2010 Detroit Auto Show

Choice details about the 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet seeped out ahead of schedule today, as did a library photos of an ice blue Benz convertible driving through a snowy landscape. The 2011 E350 and E550 convertibles make their official debut at next month's 2010 Detroit Auto Show.

The E-Class convertible has exactly the same exterior dimensions as the E-Class coupe, and like the CLK line before it, is based on Benz's C-Class platform architecture (yes, despite the fact that it's being called an "E"). Trunk capacity is up 3 cubic feet to a very usable 13.8 cubes, though. Also, the wind-defying AirCap deflector system is standard, and the AirScarf neck-warming system from the SLK-Class gets height-adjustable air registers in the new E convertible.

Engines are carryovers in the 2011 E-Class convertible, so don't look for Mercedes' new direct-injected CGI powerplants at launch. Instead, you'll have your choice of the E350 convertible with its 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 and the E550 Cab with it 382-hp 5.5-liter V8, either one with a 7-speed automatic transmission.

The convertible top remains soft on the new E-Class Cabriolet, but the benefit is quicker operation than you'll typically get on retractable hard-top convertibles. You can open or close it in 20 seconds at speeds of up to 25 mph.