2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet set for Frankfurt

Filling out the lineup of its flagship series, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet will be featured at the Frankfurt Auto Show. Recognizing a great opportunity, Mercedes chose to offer a sneak peek in the form of a single rendering accompanied by a few pertinent facts regarding the first open-air S-Class offering since 1971.

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Based on the S-Class platform, the new Cabriolet is expected to ride on the Coupe‘s 115.9-inch wheelbase, employ a similar mix of steel and aluminum in its core structure and body panels, which are believed to be largely shared with the Coupe from the doors forward but unique from there on back. Beyond specially reinforced A-pillars, this elegant 4-seater offers all of the standard and optional comfort/convenience/safety features as its S-Class siblings, including M-B’s latest in infotainment, an active/adaptive suspension and a complement of semi-autonomous driving assists.

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Rival to premium drop-tops like the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante, Bentley Continental GT Convertible and Maserati GranTurismo Convertible, the new S-Class Cabrio will feature a multi-layer, one-touch soft top that will tuck neatly away under a rigid tonneau cover when the car is running in al fresco mode. Base engine is expected to be the 449-horsepower/4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 found in the S550 while an S63 AMG version with the 5.5-liter/577-horse twin-turbo V8 is certain to be offered at some point. Less certain is an S65 AMG version fitted with the twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 that makes 621 ponies.

Expect the new S-Class Cabriolet to go on sale during the first half of 2016 as a 2017 model. No pricing has been announced. But based on the current S550 Coupe’s base sticker, it’s seems likely this new addition will open in the $130,000-$140,000 range.

Updated 8/25/15 with an additional photo.