The last instalment in the E-Class range for now has arrived in the shape of the E-Class Cabriolet. Like its driver monitoring saloon and efficient coupé relatives the Cabriolet brings some new technology to the mix, Mercedes debuting its 'Aircap' system on the four-seat drop-top.

Aircap is essentially a driver-operated spoiler that creates an air flick effect to significantly reduce buffeting and lessen draughts when the roof is down. It works in conjunction with a small net positioned between the rear headrests - Mercedes' boffins having spent some 3,000 hours in the wind tunnel perfecting the airflow. There's no denying its effectiveness - we experienced it in Merc's Stuttgart wind tunnel last week - but clever as it is there's no denying it looks a bit strange when it's raised.

Other firsts from Mercedes include a head airbag and its Airscarf neck-level heating system. The range follows that of the E-Class Coupe, starting with the 170bhp E 220CDI turbodiesel and 184bhp E 200 CGT petrol models and headed by the E 500 version fitted with a 388bhp V8 engine. Like the coupé Mercedes claims there are no plans for an AMG model. Prices and exact specifications have yet to be confirmed, these expected nearer its UK springtime on-sale date - though we can confirm that all UK cars will come as standard with the new Aircap wind deflector as standard equipment.