Geneva LIVE: 2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet

We now have live photos of the cabriolet variant of Mercedes-Benz’s 2017 C300 and Mercedes-AMG C43.

The C300′s cabriolet variant follows the coupe’s feature and specification lists fairly closely. It’s dimensionally identical (the soft top adds a negligible 0.2-inch increase in overall height thanks to its more angular shape) and the powertrain–a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 241 horsepower and 273lb-ft of torque coupled to a 9-speed automatic transmission–also carries over. Like the coupe, the cabrio variant is available in both rear- and 4MATIC all-wheel drive configurations.

The C43 variant, based on the sporty coupe of the same name, boasts a turbocharged V6 boasting 362 horsepower and 384lb-ft of torque. Unlike the C300, the C43 is available only with 4MATIC.

The biggest difference, of course, is the roof. The cabrio variants sport power-folding fabric roofs which can deploy or collapse in less than 20 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph.

While Mercedes-Benz went the extra mile to ensure the C-Class cabriolet’s structural rigidity was not excessively compromised by the absence of its roof, the German automaker stresses that the cabriolet’s mission is to convey its passengers in comfort and style while offering as much sportiness as possible to those whose priorities lie in the high-performance spectrum.

With that in mind, the C300′s suspension comes standard with steel springs and a selective damping system. A sport suspension and AIRMATIC air suspension are available as optional upgrades.

The C43 comes standard with an adaptive AMG “Ride Control” sport suspension with three-stage, adjustable damping and receives stiffened suspension components and bushings for a more direct feel. A more aggressive alignment and revised suspension geometry also set the C43 apart from its entry-level sibling.

While top-down driving may still feel like it’s months away for those of us on the east coast, Mercedes-Benz plans to have some of its C-Class Cabriolets in the hands of customers in time to catch the lingering vestiges of summer. The C300 should arrive just in the nick of time. The C43, sadly, won’t arrive until fall.

Live photos by Ronan Glon.