As you would expect, the S-Class Convertible owes much to the S-Class Coupe on which it's based. Which means that it shares the recent mid-term updates that see the addition of new Multibeam LED headlights and a revised front grille and bumper. The interior instrument layout's been updated too. As for the cabriolet element, well at first glance you might think Mercedes just took a hacksaw to the roof of the Coupe derivative and then added a canvas covering. While the two bodystyles do indeed share a great deal of metalwork (including the slightly controversial rear end), the Convertible has a steeper rake to the screen which has a strengthened frame. There's also added reinforcement in the floor of the car's shell and extending roll bars that deploy should you manage to flip your Cabriolet.
The soft top itself is said to be the largest folding canvas roof currently used by a production vehicle. This three-layer hood has a new butyl outer layer to not only ensure no water can permeate into the cabin but to lower noise levels as well. Should you find yourself in the middle of a sudden downpour, it only takes 20 seconds to raise or lower the roof at speeds up to 37mph. For added pose factor, you can even use the key fob to open or close the roof. Step aboard and you'll again notice much is shared with the S-Class Coupe - in other words there are few more luxurious places to be.
Market and Model
There's a premium of around £12,000 to get this Cabriolet S-Class over its Coupe stablematemate. That means the S560 variant will cost you around £116,000. The Mercedes-AMG models start at around £141,000 for the V8 612bhp S63 variant - or you can blow around £198,000 on the V12 630bhp S65 derivative.
While leather seats, intelligent climate control and many other features that would be options on normal cars are included, there are still plenty of extra-cost items available to make things even more opulent. One that stands out is the 'Warmth Comfort' package that adds heated centre and door armrests along with a heated steering wheel. There's also the 'AIRCAP' pop out aerofoil located on the windscreen surround that reduces buffeting and 'AIRSCARF' too. This is a neck level heating system that should ensure occupants remain toasty on even the coldest of days. As for safety, there's all the features you'd expect plus 'DISTRONIC PLUS' with 'Steering Assist' and 'Stop&Go Pilot'. In effect this is the first step to autonomous driving and allows the car to drive itself to a certain extent as long as someone is behind the wheel.
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