Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet debuts in Geneva

Mercedes-Benz C 400 4MATIC Cabriolet, A 205, 2016

Following its several teasers and spyshots now, here is the new A205 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet – the first convertible C-Class ever produced. Mercedes-Benz has revealed the model’s European specifications and a heap of photos for its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

Based on the W205 C-Class’ MRA architecture, the C-Class Cabrio largely resembles its Coupe sibling’s design, save for the soft top here. Likewise, the Cabrio’s dimensions also mirror the Coupe’s, adding just 4 mm in overall height, yet losing 4 mm in cabin headroom. Its exterior dimensions are listed at 4,686 mm long, 1,810 mm wide and 1,409 mm tall.

Mercedes-Benz says that the soft top can be opened and closed in 20 seconds, and can be operated at driving speeds of up to 50 km/h. In the basic variant, a black fabric is used for the soft top, but optionally, buyer may specify a multi-layer acoustic soft top in either dark brown, dark blue, dark red or black.

Mercedes-Benz C 400 4MATIC Cabriolet, A 205, 2016

The C-Class Cabrio gets a diamond radiator front grille, LED High Performance headlamps and LED tail lights as standard. You could of course improve its look with an AMG Line exterior package, which adds on AMG-specific bumpers, side skirts and 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. An Edition 1 variant will also be available for a limited period, but its specifics haven’t been detailed yet.

As standard, the Cabrio gets the W205’s steel springs with selective damping, lowered by 15 mm. A sport suspension is also available on selected variants — possibly in conjunction with the AMG Line kit. Optionally, the Airmatic air suspension is also available.

Inside, the Cabrio gets a very similar interior layout to the C-Class coupe, with seating claimed to be fit for four. Automatic seat belt extenders are standard fare, along with a basic Audio 20 infotainment system which has added Internet surfing capabilities. A COMAND Online system is available too, adding a larger display screen as well as other features like hard-drive navigation, WiFi hotspot and Linguatronic voice control.

Mercedes-AMG C 43 Cabriolet ( A 205 )  2016

The centrepiece trim on the dash comes with a selection of open-pore wood styles as well as high-gloss and aluminium finishes. This will of course depend on your preferred interior design package. The AMG Line interior option welcomes a flat-bottomed multi-function steering wheel, AMG sport pedals, sportier seats and more. Also optionally available is a Burmester audio system.

Another highlight of the cabin is a climate control system that responds to whether the vehicle is being driven with the roof up or down. With the roof closed, the system performs in the same way as in the Coupe. With the soft top down, the climate control system adapts by, for example, blowing warmer air onto the driver’s hands on the steering wheel and deactivating the air recirculation function.

As with other Mercedes-Benz open-top models, the C-Class Cabrio gets Airscarf neck-level heating and Aircap systems (reduces interior turbulence) as part of the model’s Comfort package. With the top up, 360 litres of usable boot space is available, while stowing the soft top leaves 285 litres.

Click to enlarge engine specs.

Six petrol engines and two diesels will be available at launch for the European market. As listed above, the petrol range will consist of a C 180, C 200 4Matic, C 250, C 300, C 400 4Matic and new C 43 4Matic – offering power outputs ranging from 156 to 367 hp.

The diesel line-up consists of a C 220 d 4Matic and a C 250 d, both featuring the brand’s OM651 turbodiesel, delivering 170 and 204 hp respectively. The new Cabriolet will also come equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s new 9G-Tronic nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission, which is gradually taking over from the existing 7G-Tronic used in most Benz models.

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Chris Aaron

With an equal passion for fast cars and everyday workhorses, Chris Aaron maintains a passion for European makes, Formula 1, playing the electric guitar and spending endless hours on the PlayStation - first-person shooters and the Gran Turismo franchise are his favourites. He also finds it strange to have written this in the third person.

 
 

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