Mercedes Teases C-class Cabriolet, a Smaller, Cheaper Four-Place Benz Convertible

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It is an “open secret,” says Daimler on social media: There will be a convertible version of the Mercedes-Benz C-class. This rendering, faithful to the real thing, gives a good glimpse of what customers can expect to see in showrooms later this year.

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Mercedes also says that the C-class cabriolet is a four-seater (although the rear seat will be tight), and it will feature a fabric top, just like the Audi A5 cabriolet, but unlike the BMW 4-series—which is fitted with an elaborate and heavier retractable hardtop.

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The full list of engine choices have not been revealed yet, but we know that the range will be bookended by the C300 cabriolet with a 241-hp 2.0-liter four, and the Mercedes-AMG C63S Cabriolet with a 503-hp 4.0-liter V-8. In between, Daimler could offer an AMG C43 cabriolet with a 362-hp 3.0-liter V-6. Automatic transmissions are standard. Other markets, by the way, get a far more generous choice of powertrains, including diesels, and a manual transmission.

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With a price point below that of its bigger brother, the C-class cabriolet could make life difficult for the current E-class cabriolet, which is still based on the last-generation C-class. A new version of the E-class convertible isn’t likely to appear until mid 2017 at the earliest.

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• 2017 Mercedes-Benz SLC-class Debuts: Say Goodbye to the SLK

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• Mercedes-Benz C-class Coverage: Photos, Specs, Reviews, and More

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There is no official confirmation, but judging from the timing of this social media unveiling, we expect the C-class cabriolet to be unveiled at the Geneva auto show in two weeks. Stay tuned.

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from Car and Driver Blog http://blog.caranddriver.com/mercedes-teases-c-class-cabriolet-a-smaller-cheaper-four-place-benz-convertible/