autoevolution
 

2016 Mercedes C-Class Cabriolet (A205) Spied Undergoing Testing

After launching the all-new W205 C-Class sedan and estate in quick succession, Mercedes is now looking to update the two-door compact lineup. The C-Coupe, codenamed C205, will hit the market in November 2015. It will be followed in early 2016 by the new C-Class Cabriolet, likely to be the most luxurious car ever launched in its class.
2016 Mercedes C-Class Cabriolet (A205) Spied Undergoing Testing 1 photo
Photo: screenshot from Youtube
We've just spied a prototype for the 2016 C-Cabrio, which will be marked as A205, undergoing testing in semi-sunny Spain. The prototype is almost completely covered up, but we can see a few things. For starters, the model will continue to use a folding fabric roof, as opposed to the metal one used by BMW. Advancements made in the field mean that 3-layer canvas tops can be as quiet and warm as having an actual roof.

The platform will be the same Modular Rear Architecture (MRA) as used by the C-Class sedan. In total 10 models will be underpinned by it, including the next E-Class. So the cabriolet will have pedigree.

Full air suspension will be available

We don't know for sure, but from the soft way in which the cabriolet rolls over the bumps, we thing it's been fitted with air suspension. This feature is offered as an optional extra on the C-Class sedan and is the first in this class.

Another layer of comfort is added by the engines. Sure, they're not as powerful as the ones made by BMW, but Mercedes' engines are creamy. Engineers will do everything possible to make the C-Class Cabrio as creamy as butter, so soundproofing will be taken to the max.

4Matic, Light Body, New Engines

There's nothing to compare the A205 to, since Mercedes currently doesn't offer a C-Class Cabrio. But compared to the W204 C-Class, they will place a clearer empasis on all-wheel drive. Upscale models like the C400, powered by a V6 engine, will have standard 4Matic in the US.

Speaking of the C400, this will receive a new 3-liter biturbo V6 with 333 PS. It could be joined later on by an AMG Sport model, pushing 367 PS from the same block. There should also be plenty of four-cylinder models, powered by both the 2-liter petrol engine (C250 with 211 PS and C300 with 256 PS) and the 2.1-liter diesel (C220 d with 177 PS).

Powertrains aside, this all-new C-Class will be light and strong. On the sedan, the body alone is 40kg lighter than the old one. But will feel solid, refined and grown up rather than sporty.

If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Mihnea Radu
Mihnea Radu profile photo

Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories