Mercedes Drops the Top On the C-Class

Mercedes-Benz hasn't had a true competitor to the likes of the Audi A5 and BMW 3/4-Series convertibles since the CLK ended production in 2009 to make way for the slightly larger E-Class coupe and cabriolet. But Mercedes decided it was time to change that.

At the Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes unveiled the 2017 C-Class Cabriolet. Taking a standard C-Class Coupe, Mercedes lops off the roof and puts on a canvas top. The top is similar to the one used on the S-Class Cabriolet and comes in four different colors - black, dark brown, dark blue, and dark red. The top can be raised or lowered in 20 seconds and at speeds up to 31 mph.

The interior features some clever ideas such as leather that reflects heat to make the seats more comfortable if the Cabriolet has been sitting out in the sun; Mercedes' AirScarf that blows hot air around the neck to make it more comfortable when the top is down and the weather is slightly chilly; and a unique climate control that redirects air to the driver's hands if the top is put down.

For the U.S., Mercedes will offer two models. The base will be the C300 which comes with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder producing 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Next is the Mercedes-AMG C43 that uses a Biturbo 3.0L V6 making 362 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. Both engines come with a nine-speed automatic. The C300 will have the choice of either rear-wheel or Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive system. The C43 gets all-wheel drive standard. Like the coupe, the C43 Cabriolet's all-wheel drive system is biased to the rear (31 percent of power to the front, 69 percent of power to the rear).

Mercedes says the C300 Cabriolet will be available at dealers later this summer, followed by the C43 in the fall.