Open top luxury for the elite, the all-new S-Class Cabriolet

Diesel & Motor Engineering PLC (DIMO) the only authorised distributor for Mercedes-Benz in Sri Lanka introduced the all new S-Class Cabriolet recently. 

The new Cabriolet is the sixth variant of the current S-Class family and the first open-top luxury four-seater from Mercedes-Benz since 1971. It offers a distinctive, sensual and exclusive design, the cutting-edge technology of the S-Class and a comprehensive warmth and wind protection concept which includes intelligent climate control for convertibles. 

“After four decades Mercedes-Benz is introducing an open-top car in the S-Class. It symbolises modern luxury in a very distinctive way and will offer exclusive mobility,” mentioned DIMO Chairman Ranjith Pandithage.

The new S-Class Cabriolet is exceptionally rigid. Innovative solutions such as the luggage compartment bulkhead made of aluminium and magnesium as well as the aluminium rear floor also lower the body shell weight to the level of the S-Class Coupé. The standard-fit roll-over protection system behind the rear head restraints features pyrotechnic initiation of the actuators for the first time, in addition to which the roll bars themselves are moved into position by a gas generator.

Mercedes-Benz lays claim to building the world’s most comfortable convertible. When it comes to climate comfort, the enhanced automatic wind protection system AIRCAP, the AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, the heated armrests, the seat heating also in the rear plus the intelligent climate control ensure that this is indeed the case. 

A loving attention to detail is also evident in the luggage compartment concept: when the soft top is opened, it folds away into part of the luggage compartment. The soft top is separated from the remaining luggage compartment space by means of an electrically operated retractable cover which encloses the soft top. This luggage compartment partition extends automatically during opening of the soft top. This means that the driver no longer needs to stop in order to operate the luggage compartment cover manually, providing for added convenience. 

The optional LED Intelligent Light System showcases the car’s elegance in glittering style with exquisite Swarovski crystals for the direction indicators and daytime running lamps. The switch in the centre console can be used to open and close the soft top while on the move up to a speed of 60 km/h. Opening and closing take around 20 seconds. The soft top is deposited above the automatically extending luggage compartment partition. The newly developed soft top from Mercedes Benz is a tensioning-arm top. 

When closing the soft top, the required closing forces are generated by moving the tensioning arms beyond the dead centre position – a process known as ‘overcentering’. This avoids the need for any additional closures on the soft top compartment lid, in keeping with the high design quality embodied by the S-Class Cabrio. 

To enable the broadest scope for individualisation, there is a choice of leather, nappa leather or designo Exclusive nappa leather plus six different interior colour concepts, including a maritime-inspired combination of deep-sea blue and porcelain. The materials feature the highest standard of workmanship and are hand-crafted in character.

With a Cd value of 0.29, aerodynamics world champion Mercedes-Benz sets a new benchmark in this segment with the S-Class Cabrio. The excellent air flow characteristics are attributable, for example, to the underbody panelling concept with extensive engine compartment and main floor panelling, the extensive rear axle cladding, the aerodynamically optimised wheel spoilers, the aerodynamic shape of the exterior mirrors and the well-balanced power split between front and rear axle.

The V8 engine of the S 500 Cabrio has an output of 335 kW (455 hp). The displacement stands at 4663 cc and the engine produces peak torque of 700 Nm from 1800 rpm. The S-Class Cabrio is fitted as standard with the full-support AIRMATIC semi-active air suspension featuring infinitely variable damping control. This system sets standards with respect to road roar and handling stability. It can be set to a sportier or more comfort-oriented mode, according to personal tastes. The four-link front axle impresses with a high level of driving comfort, plus precise suspension action.

Like the S-Class Saloon and Coupé, the new Cabrio is available with numerous new assistance systems that make driving even more comfortable and safer. As the sixth variant of the current S-Class, the new S-Class Cabriolet (length/width/height: 5027/1899/1417 mm) is a member of the world’s largest luxury model family. Its closest relative is the S-Class Coupé, from which the Cabrio adopts around 60% of its bodyshell components. 

DIMO is the only authorised distributor for Mercedes-Benz in Sri Lanka for more than seven decades. The new Mercedes-Benz Centre ‘DIMO 800’ is the largest and most modern state-of-the-art service and showroom facility in the region.