Spied: 2015 Mercedes S-Class Convertible

What It Is: The first true S-class convertible by Mercedes-Benz since the W111/112 convertible of the 1960s and ’70s—cars that will set you back upwards of $200,000 in today’s market. This will be a true soft-top convertible and thus clearly distinguished from the current SL-class with its folding hardtop. The roof will be conceptually similar to the Porsche 991 cabriolet’s and will offer superb high-speed capability. Inside, there will be a dashboard full of chrome and wood, with two TFT displays, and likely the S-class sedan's two-spoke steering wheel.
 
Why It Matters: It will give Mercedes a unique vehicle that is virtually without competition. Neither Audi nor BMW offer anything of similar size; the closest vehicle in concept is the Bentley Continental GTC, which is loosely based on the Volkswagen Phaeton. The S-class cabriolet also will be important because Benz has come under pressure for its styling, which is not deemed as classic and timeless as it used to be. This upmarket cabriolet will offer an opportunity to correct this perception.

Platform: The S-class cabrio will be based on the next-generation S-class, which means it will be huge, powerful, and full of technology. All the latest telematics and driver aids, such as night vision, LED headlights, huge screens, and voice recognition will be available.

Thanks to: Car and Driver