New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet arriving in time for summer driving

(June 3, 2016) STUTTGART, Germany — Mercedes-Benz is launching into the open-air season with the first cabriolet based on the C-Class, thereby rounding off its range of cabriolets with a classic fabric soft top. The sporty four-seater is based on the successful Coupé version. Whether open or closed, the Cabriolet shines with an expressive appearance and distinctive character.

The Cabriolet is optionally available with the AIRCAP electric draught stop system and AIRSCARF neck-level heating — for comfort during open-top driving 365 days a year.


Powerful engines delivering between 156 to 510
horsepower and a suspension designed for dynamic performance (with optional AIRMATIC air suspension) ensure sporty, agile handling. The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is available for all engine variants. Also on board: proven assistance systems and state-of-the-art infotainment. The new C-Class Cabriolet launches this summer.

Mercedes says that as the new entry-level model into the world of Mercedes-Benz convertibles, the C-Class Cabriolet is also a consistent embodiment of the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy: sensual purity as the definition of modern luxury — hot and cool. It exhibits independence of character with a visibly sporty expression and youthfully fresh appeal.

"Its tightly stretched soft top with glass window transitions harmoniously into the distinctively styled rear end, which has a highly sporty look with its wide shoulders and flat LED tail lights. With a capacity of 360 liters (285 liters with the roof open), the boot is capable of holding an exceptional amount of luggage for a convertible, thus offering high everyday practicality," according to Mercedes.

At the sides, an elongated dropping line extending over the rear wheel arch lends an emphasis typical of Mercedes-Benz design. Thanks to the suspension lowered by 15 millimeters compared to the Saloon, the vehicle is already at sports level with the standard 17-inch tires, emphasizing the sporty nature of the Cabriolet which shines aerodynamically with a Cd figure of 0.28.

With the roof open, the meticulously coordinated harmony between exterior and interior design becomes apparent. High-quality details include a decorative aluminum surround on the A‑pillars and windscreen, and the beltline trim strip extending to the soft top compartment.

The fully automatic classic cabriolet fabric soft top comes in black in the basic variant, or is optionally available with a multi-layer acoustic soft top in dark brown, dark blue, dark red or black. It significantly reduces the wind/driving noise. This is made noticeable in the form of improved speech intelligibility, including at high speeds, and better insulation from disruptive ambient noise. The acoustic soft top thus offers optimal climate comfort, quiet-running characteristics and full all-year suitability.

Based on the S-Class Cabriolet, the soft top also meets high quality standards in terms of durability and function. It can be opened and closed in 20 seconds, and at speeds of up to 31 mph. After opening, it folds down quietly and precisely and is stored in the soft-top compartment in the boot. In shape and color the cover of the soft-top compartment is an integral part of the interior, and is made of the same material as the beltline.

The interior ambience is similar to that of the C-Class Coupé, though freshly interpreted with features typical of a convertible. Especially high-grade materials and build quality give the interior a modern feel of sportiness and lifestyle.

The appointments include heat-reflecting leather in a total of five color shades (optional) as well as an attractively curved switch in matt silver chrome in the centre console for opening and closing the fully automatic soft top. Based on the Coupé, the sport seats feature an integral look with muscular side bolsters and organically integrated head restraints, as well as the AIRSCARF neck-level heating optional for the Cabriolet. Automatic belt extenders as standard help the occupants to fasten their seat belts.

The rear seats are in the form of individual seats. Their backrests offer a through-loading feature as standard, can be split 50:50 for high everyday practicality and can be completely folded down.

Powerful and efficient gas and diesel engines with ECO start/stop function and an extensive 4MATIC range ensure sporty performance and driving pleasure. All are compliant with the Euro 6 emission standard. Mercedes did not announce which engines would be available in North America.

Eight gas engines are available for the Cabriolet. The range of outputs extends from the 1.6-liter four-cylinder unit in the C 180 rated at 156 hp to the 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine in the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Cabriolet at 510 hp.