Mercedes C-Class Convertible Debuts

2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 Cabriolet (Credit: © Mercedes-Benz)

We recently saw the newly redesigned C-Class coupe makes its long-anticipated debut. Its stunning new design was a welcome sight to experts and fans alike, but there was still one other version of the C-Class that everyone has been eagerly waiting on. I am, of course, talking about the first-ever C-Class cabriolet. The wait is now over, as the drop-top C-Class has finally debuted at the Geneva Auto Show.

The C-Class cabriolet arrives with all the sexy curves and S-Class cues that made its coupe sibling a smashing success. The only thing separating it from the coupe is its retractable multi-layer, fabric roof that keeps the noise and elements out but goes from closed to open and vice-versa in just 20 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph.

Unlike so many convertibles, the C-Class cabriolet actually looks good with its top up. Mercedes did a great job making the fabric top mimic the coupe’s roofline as much as it could. What’s more, the cabriolet is only 0.2 inches taller than the coupe, keeping everything in proportion, which is something that many convertibles struggle with.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet (Credit: © Mercedes-Benz)

The cabin is much of the same we saw in the coupe, but the cabriolet gains the much-needed AIRSCARF neck-level heating system for days when it is just a tad on the cool side but you still want that wind-in-your-hair feeling.

Powering the base version of the C-Class cabriolet, which is known as the C300, is Mercedes’ 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine pairs with either the standard rear-wheel-drive system or the optional 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. Buyers can choose between five drive settings via the Dynamic Select feature—ECO, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus, and Individual—to fit their driving needs at any time.

In addition to the C300, there is also the Mercedes-AMG C43 cabriolet. This model rolls in boasting a 3.0-liter biturbo V-6 engine that throws down 362 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This engine pairs with Mercedes’ nine-speed auto transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC to deliver a 4.7-secod 0-to-60 sprint time and a 155 mph top speed.

Mercedes-AMG C43 Cabrioloet (Credit: © Mercedes-Benz)

The C43 cabriolet sets itself further from the base C300 in terms of performance with its AMG Ride Control adjustable suspension, AMG Dynamic Select, a sport steering system, 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, and larger brakes.

Stylistically, the C43 cabriolet gains all the bits expected of an AMG model. On the outside, these bits include an aggressive front apron with larger air intakes, a diamond-mesh grille, silver chrome trim, an iridium silver diffuser insert, high-gloss-black louvers, AMG lettering, and exclusive top colors (black, dark blue, brown, or dark red). Inside, the C43 gains a flat-bottom steering wheel wrapped in leather, sport seats wrapped in MB-Tex and Dinamica, an AMG instrument cluster with a 4.5-inch multifunction display, and more.

The C300 cabriolet will hit showrooms this summer, in both standard and 4MATIC trims, while the C43 cabriolet arrives in the fall.