A CLASSIER C-CLASS CABRIOLET (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

Introductionword count: 61

This 'A205'-series Mercedes' C-Class Cabriolet targeted open-topped versions of BMW's 4 Series and Audi's A5 more effectively than the Three-Pointed Star had ever managed before. Elegant styling makes it stand out, plus you get sophisticated convertible touches from some of Mercedes' more exotic drop-top models. Along with class-leading sophistication from the 2016-2023 period when it comes to suspension and automatic transmission.

Modelsword count: 13

2dr Cabriolet [C220d] / 2.0 petrol [C200] / 4.0 petrol [C 53 AMG])

Historyword count: 359

Take an exotic Mercedes convertible, reduce it in size a little, give it a more sensible range of engines and price it at a level that doesn't necessarily require a lottery win. Given that it's difficult to go far wrong with that kind of formula, much was expected back in 2016 from this, the 'A205'-series Mercedes C-Class Cabriolet. It seems strange to think that this was the first ever open-topped C-Class-badged model. Mercedes old CLK Cabriolet, produced in two generations from 1999 onwards, was based on a C-Class but had more up-market aspirations. These were only ultimately realised when the CLK Cabrio was ditched in 2009 and effectively replaced by the slightly larger E-Class Cabriolet that launched in 2010. But that continued to leave Mercedes without a convertible precisely targeted at the two premium-branded models dominating the executive drop-top sector. Back in 2016, we knew them as BMW's 4 Series Convertible and the Audi A5 Cabriolet. This pair represented extremely tough competition. By the time of this Mercedes model's launch, the Audi had been revitalised in stiffer, lighter second generation form, while the BMW had also been thoroughly updated beneath the bonnet and offered the unique-in-segment provision of a metal folding roof. Both though, sometimes felt like convertible versions of humbler middle-management saloons - which is where this C-Class Cabriolet hoped to score. It set out to look and feel that bit more exclusive and much of its technology was borrowed from a Mercedes S-Class Cabriolet selling for more than twice the price. As you might guess from the size and styling of this model, the fundamentals here were based on those of the brand's second generation C-Class Coupe, so buyers got the latest technology features that had rejuvenated that contender, things like 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, air suspension and the 'DYNAMIC SELECT' driving modes system. Plus there was the brand's 'AIRCAP' system that reduced open-top buffeting and made the brand's larger luxury Convertible models so serene to ride in when travelling al fresco. There was a light facelift for the C-Class Cabriolet in 2020, then this car sold until late 2023, when it was replaced by the CLE Cabriolet.

What You Getword count: 284

A lot's been written about the way that this C-Class Cabriolet offers nearly all the qualities of an exotic S-Class Cabriolet distilled into a more accessible form. Which is pretty much how it turns out in the metal. There's certainly an elegance in the sweeping shape appropriate to a brand with such a distinguished cabriolet back catalogue. Take your place inside and the electrically-extending 'belt butler' graciously delivers your restraint buckle. Then there's the integral sports seats themselves, bespoke-designed for this model and fitted out with 'AIRSCARF' neck-level vents you'll be glad of if you're tempted to go 'al fresco' on a chilly morning. Otherwise, things will be pretty familiar to anyone fluent in modern Mercedes design language. Look around you and the two staples of the brand's currently favoured approach to cabin style are present and correct. So, there are five round silver-trimmed air vents. And above the three in the centre sits a prominent iPad-style infotainment screen, its free-standing positioning smacking either of after-thought or inspired design, depending on your point of view. What else? Well we really like the way that the climate control system adapts itself when the roof is down, blowing warmer air onto your hands and deactivating the air recirculation function. Enough on the front; what of the rear? Well you could call this an adult four-seater - but only just. Still, it's unlikely that any of this will prove to be a clinching issue for most buyers who'll tend to more usually use these pews for the carriage of jackets and designer shopping bags. With the roof upright, the luggage capacity is a relatively acceptable 355-litres. When the roof's stowed though, that figure falls to just 260-litres.

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