Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet (2016 – 2020) Review

Sitting at the top of marque’s model range, virtually everything bar the kitchen sink has been thrown at this big convertible. From powerful engines to an air suspension system that tries to defy the laws of physics, the driving experience is an event in itself. Yet a high-quality interior and wealth of standard technology help the S-Class impress before it even turns a wheel. Only compromised practicality – thank the need to accommodate a folding roof – is a major drawback here.

Mercedes-Benz produces a range of impressive convertibles and roadsters, but not all of them are created equal. For the buyer who must have the best drop-top model the company builds, there is simply nothing like the S-Class Cabriolet. 

From launch in 2016, the S-Class Cabriolet has established itself as one of the prime picks for luxury motoring. The degree of quality and refinement on offer is far beyond this being a scaled-up version of an E-Class Cabriolet. Be warned though, the S-Class saloon origins mean this is a seriously big car. At more than five metres in length, be sure to measure your driveway to ensure the big Benz will fit. 

Despite the substantial exterior dimensions, though, the S-Class Cabriolet manages to be less than fully accommodating on the inside. While front-seat passengers will bask in luxurious seats, those in the back get a slightly less premium experience. Legroom will be tight for taller adults, although headroom is not an issue, even with the roof in place. 

The folding fabric roof is a contributor to the limited rear space, along with having an impact on the boot. Given the size of the S-Class, a luggage capacity on par with a family hatchback might be something of a shock. Storage space shrinks even further when the fabric roof is lowered. 

Watching the roof fold itself away to leave a smooth rear deck makes for a special piece of street theatre. It can be lowered or raised in just 18 seconds, and operates at speeds of up to 37mph. Refinement is impressive with the roof up, and cabin draughts and buffeting are kept to a minimum when the hood is down. This is thanks to the clever Aircap, a wind deflector system that works to keep hairdos looking pristine. 

Dropping the top will also allow members of the public to gaze enviously at the plush interior found within the S-Class Cabriolet.

Swathes of wood and leather are matched with metal detailing, with all components feeling expensive to touch. A widescreen digital dashboard and multimedia display dominate the cabin, and come packed with the latest infotainment options. Top specification models have a Burmester surround-sound system that has to be experienced to understand how loud it can be.

The S-Class Cabrio is more than just an objet d’art, however. All the engine choices are supremely powerful, with a twin-turbocharged V8 being the entry-level pick. Performance is effortless whichever engine is chosen, with the AMG S 65 and its V12 there for those who need to outdo everyone else in the car park. 

A clever air suspension setup means the topless S-Class can both handle and ride with aplomb. It offers a range of settings depending on the situation, letting the driver pick between comfortable cruising or a two-tonne sports car. 

Aside from the limited space in the rear seats and boot, the S-Class has very few drawbacks. Running costs are understandably large, and the sheer physical size of the car can make city driving a more challenging affair. The high cost of entry means a small customer base, but the lucky few will be rewarded with one of the best cabriolets on the road.  

Standard air suspension is responsible for this witchcraft, offering a range of settings. Picking Sport or Sport+ sees the suspension stiffen and extra weight added to the steering. The S-Class generates huge amounts of grip, and will corner at an impressive pace. 

However, it is how the S-Class Cabriolet rides that defines the driving experience. Engaging Comfort mode results in a supremely cosseting ride, with bumps and road imperfections melting away. Although AMG cars have slightly stiffer settings, their ability to soak up ruts and potholes is still commendable. 

It encourages a more relaxed driving experience, but one backed by the knowledge of the firepower beneath the bonnet.

Engine choices for the S-Class Cabriolet begin with a turbocharged V8 and become increasingly ridiculous from there.

The entry-level S 500 features a 4.7-litre twin-turbo V8 with 455PS. This alone makes the S-Class Cabriolet a very quick machine, with a limited top speed of 155mph. It uses a nine-speed automatic gearbox. In 2018 the S 560 became the basic engine choice, although a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 with 469PS is anything but basic. 

Pre-2018 AMG S 63 models used a 585PS twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8, connected to a nine-speed AMG Speedshift gearbox. After 2018, the AMG S 63 gained a modified version of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, with power now at 612PS.

For sheer lunacy, the AMG S 65 has a twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12. With 630PS, it is only marginally faster than the rest of the range, but exists for those who want the ultimate in bragging rights. 

All the engines are impressive, with the choice between them dependent on how self-indulgent you wish to be.

Sitting atop the Mercedes-Benz model range means the S-Class Cabriolet is packed with the best safety equipment. Even though it has not been formally tested by Euro NCAP, the wealth of airbags and systems ensure it is a very safe car.

A Driving Assistance Package is standard on AMG cars, and an option for others. This fits a 360-degree surround-view camera, active cruise control, and blind-spot assist. Updates in 2018 saw semi-autonomous capability added, with the S-Class able to steer or brake itself to avoid hazards. 

There is no standard spare wheel, with Mercedes-Benz instead supplying a compressor and tyre repair kit.

Think of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet as somewhat akin to a reverse Tardis. Although huge on the outside, interior space is actually less generous than you might imagine. 

Sitting in the front will not be a problem, with the electrically adjustable seats offering plenty of scope to get comfortable. Opening the fabric roof results in endless headroom, but even with it closed there should be no problems. 

Running the full length of the S-Class Cabrio’s cabin is a centre console. It divides the rear seats into two, providing extra storage space for those in the back. Adults may start to find the rear seats a little cramped on longer journeys, although headroom and shoulder room should be less of a concern. 

Accommodating the folding roof sees boot space shrink compared to the S-Class Coupe. A capacity of 350 litres is not vast, but compares favourably with rivals like the Bentley Continental GTC. Lowering the roof takes away more boot space, meaning the back seats may be best used as extra storage

Everything feels built to last, with even the rotary controller for the multimedia system feeling more substantial than in other Mercedes models. Real metal detailing abounds, and buyers can plump for upgraded Nappa leather for extra luxury. 

AMG models have extra features like a logo-embossed front armrest and illuminated door sills. These cars also have the option of carbon fibre trim, which looks a little strange in such a luxurious vehicle.

One of the most noticeable features inside the S-Class Cabriolet is the widescreen display, spanning more than half the dashboard. It consists of one 12.3-inch screen working as a digital instrument cluster, with another 12.3-inch display controlling multimedia functions. 

As expected of a range-topping model, features like satellite navigation, DAB radio, Apple CarPlay, and internet integration are all included as standard. The 2018 updates added wireless smartphone charging to the mix, plus near field communication to connect devices. 

A Burmester sound system is fitted to all but the S 500 AMG Line. It offers an immersive audio experience, and is even louder in the AMG S 65, which has a special 24-speaker setup.

Buying a new Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet is not a cheap experience, with all prices in the ‘substantial’ bracket. Things begin with the S 560 Grand Edition, which has a list price of £125,010. 

Next in the 2020 range is the AMG S 63, priced at £143,369, with the AMG S 63 Premium model at £151,368. Should you wish to add the optional Night Package for the AMG S 63, this adds £2,495 to the base car. Adding it to the AMG S 63 Premium requires a reduced £1,495. 

Other options like Exclusive Nappa leather upholstery at £3,495, or the £1,695 Driving Assistance Package, demonstrate how easily the list price of the S-Class can escalate.

Attempting to find a nearly-new or used S-Class Cabriolet is likely to require some serious detective work. 

From the used cars available, S 500 and S 560 AMG Line Premium models are marginally more plentiful in supply. Prices for these models begin at around £53,000 for the S 500, with the S 560 requiring around £65,000. 

Of the AMG cars, older examples of the AMG S 63 can be found with specialist showrooms. Nearly-new versions still reside on the forecourt of Mercedes-Benz dealerships. 

Early AMG S 63s start at around £65,000 for the 5.5-litre V8-powered car. Buying a nearly-new 4.0-litre V8 from a Mercedes-Benz dealer will cost around £110,000. The V12 AMG S 65 is virtually impossible to find on the used market, meaning prices will be based on age and condition when they do appear. 

PCP finance for a used model is available from Mercedes-Benz dealers. Monthly costs will be substantial, unless you are able to supply a large deposit. With a £5,000 deposit, a nearly-new S 560 AMG Line would cost £2,060 per month. This is based on a four-year agreement, with mileage limited to 10,000 miles a year.

The S 500 AMG Line manages vaguely respectable fuel economy. Official testing returns a combined average of 33.2mpg. In comparison, the later S 560 returns 29mpg, although this is on the more stringent WLTP testing protocol. 

Moving to the more powerful AMG models sees fuel economy fall even further. The current AMG S 63 with a 4.0-litre V8 engine can achieve an official 27mpg. Expect this to drop further if you enjoy the performance on offer. Predictably, the V12 AMG S 65 returns 23.5mpg at best, with figures in the low teens a likely reality.

Every model in the S-Class Cabriolet range resides in the maximum group 50 for insurance. Big premiums are likely, and investing in a standalone vehicle tracker may be wise. 

A small number of the earliest S 500 models fall within the pre-April 2017 VED (road tax) regime. As a result, they incur an annual rate of £330. 

All cars sold after April 2017 fall within the new VED scheme. Due to the list price exceeding £40,000, they are subject to the additional £325 annual charge levied on top of the regular £150 fee. This applies for five years after initial registration.

As a flagship model, Mercedes-Benz has kept the trim levels relatively simple for the S-Class Cabriolet. All are generous with standard equipment. 

The S 500 AMG Line was the initial starting point before the 2017 facelift. Air suspension, LED headlights, leather seats, a panoramic sunroof and 19-inch wheels are anything but entry-level. An optional Premium Package could add 20-inch wheels and a Burmester sound system.

Another option was the S 500 AMG Line Night Edition, wearing special matt grey paintwork. The 20-inch alloy wheels are finished in black, with gloss black elements for the front grille. 

After the 2018 facelift, the S 560 Grand Edition is now the cheapest model. Wireless smartphone charging, Burmester audio and front seats with a massage function are all standard equipment.

The AMG S 63 wears 20-inch alloy wheels and a different front bumper design. An AMG sports exhaust and AMG-branded sports seats mark this out as a performance model. 

Top of the pile is the insane V12-engined AMG S 65. LED headlights featuring Swarovski crystals, plus a Nappa leather interior, demonstrate the level of flamboyance on offer.