As the UK clocks adjust to the Spring hours, the New York International Motor Show have embraced the spring spirit by teasing us with the incoming convertible models for 2016. Set to make hearts race this open-top season are the Mercedes Benz c 63 Cabriolet, Audi R8 Spyder and the Mazda MX-5 RF.
Mercedes Benz C 63 Cabriolet
Mercedes gave the new C 63 Cabriolet it’s global debut in New York as the latest addition to the Mercedes AMG C-Class range with 12 versions now available as Saloon, Estate, Coupé and Cabriolet; with a choice of V6 biturbo engine and all-wheel drive or V8 biturbo engine in two output ratings, rear-wheel drive and rear-axle limited-slip differential.
The C 63 Cabriolet combines an intensive open-air ambience with the AMG V8 engine to create an exhilarating performance experience. The biturbo engine developed in Affalterbach is available in two output ratings with 350 kW (476 hp) or 375 kW (510 hp) and provides performance on a par with a sports car. Flared wheel arches at the front and rear, the wide track and the large wheels underscore the powerful looks. The agile longitudinal and lateral dynamics come courtesy of the sophisticated AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptive damping adjustment, the rear-axle limited-slip differential and the dynamic engine mounts.
Extensive know-how from motorsport and the passion of the AMG engineers, designers and product managers form the basis for the emotive driving experience with the new Performance Cabriolet.
“The C-Class is a decisive factor in our company’s success. The new combination of intensive open-air ambience and powerful V8 engine is unique in the segment and perfectly supplements our large C-Class range,” said Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The market launch of the C 63 Cabriolet will begin in August 2016.
Audi R8 Spyder
“Thrilling open-air motoring accompanied by the guttural roar of a mighty naturally aspirated engine” – this is the essence of the Audi R8 Spyder, and the formula has lost none of its intoxicating purity. The latest R8 Spyder with naturally aspirated V10 power returns more technologically accomplished, more powerful and quicker against the clock, even more tightly pinned to corners and even more composed on the straights thanks to a 50 per cent improvement in torsional rigidity.
Utilising the newly developed Audi Space Frame (used for the strong backbone, made from aluminium and carbon fibre) and the ‘typically audi’ lightweight cloth hood tapering into two fins, the R8 Spyder looks set to make its mark in the convertible market.
Boasting a mid-mounted naturally aspirated 5.20-litre engine with dual injection system, a seven-speed S tronic transmission and dynamic throttle response, the R8 Spyder delivers 540PS of power and 540 Nm (398.3 lb-ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm deliver phenomenal road performance: from 0 to 62mph in 3.6 seconds, and a top speed of 197mph.
Technology, as always, has also evolved with the introduction the 12.3-inch fully digital Audi virtual cockpit (with optional 3D graphics), MMI navigation plus (MMI touch is standard as are belt microphones) and the debut of Audi’s smartphone interface.
The hand-built Audi R8 Spyder will become available to order in the UK later this spring.
Mazda MX-5 RF
Mazda revealed the Mazda MX-5 RF (“retractable fastback”), which promises to offer a new dimension of open-top driving fun while at the same time staying true to the purpose of Mazda’s previous retractable hardtop MX-5: Making the roadster experience accessible to a broader range of drivers. Featuring fastback styling with a smooth roofline that slopes down to the rear, the MX-5 RF’s unique rear roof and retractable back window deliver a distinctive new convertible feeling.
Despite the sleek design, the MX-5 RF offers the same boot space as the soft-top model. Also like the soft-top, the new version will be available in Europe with a choice of two revvy petrol engines – the SKYACTIV-G 1.5 and SKYACTIV-G 2.0 – mated either to a delightfully crisp shifting six-speed SKYACTIV-MT gearbox or – exclusively for the MX-5 RF – a six-speed automatic.
Another highlight of the MX-5 RF is the selection of body colours. They include Machine Grey, a new premium colour specially designed to accentuate the subtle yet dynamic surfaces of Mazda’s KODO – Soul of Motion exteriors. Machine Grey will be available on a range of Mazda models, including the all-new Mazda CX-9 slated to go on sale in North America this spring.
Further details on other models displayed at the New York International Auto Show can be found on their website whilst the show continues until April 3rd.
