Mercedes E-Class Cabrio First Time Spied with Soft-Top

The next-generation Mercedes E-Class convertible has been spied out in the world, as the car is prepared for its expected introduction in September. With most of its camouflage stripped away, the soft-top's new lines are visible. The E-Class convertible exhibits the angular yet muscular lines of the new coupe, which should debut at the Geneva show in March and go on sale in early 2010.

A retractable hardtop is expected as seen in previous spy photos, but this is the first time we've seen a soft fabric top as well. This car appears to be wearing a six-spoke alloy wheel of a different design than the coupes spied previously. There is no official word yet on powertrains, but expect similar offerings to the rest of the line up. The E-Class isn't known for big surprises, after all. Mercedes' familiar 3.5 V6, 5.4 V8 and 6.2 AMG V8 are the most likely candidates. Given the popularity and friendly nature of diesels, we expect to see a CDI or BlueTec-equipped E-Class convertible as well.

The new E-Class convertible is expected to make its debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show this fall.