Mercedes-Benz unveils four-seat open-roof luxury with S-class Cabriolet (pictures)

FRANKFURT -- Mercedes-Benz unveiled an all-new convertible, or cabriolet, version of its S-class luxury model at the Franfurt auto show.

The new S-class Cabriolet takes more after its coupe sibling than the sedan, evoking a more sporty style.

This AMG variant of the S-class Cabriolet makes use of a hand-built twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8 engine.

In its AMG kit, the S-class Cabriolet benefits from optional ceramic brake discs.

LED headlights make for a bright, well-defined pattern.

Mercedes-Benz used lightweight materials to stiffen the body, keeping the weight down to that of the coupe version.

An air suspension both improves handling and makes the ride more comfortable.

Mercedes-Benz uses a soft top for the roof, greatly reducing trunk space when it is stowed.

A sport exhaust system opens up baffles to increase the volume at the push of a button.

Cabin comfort is aided by Mercedes-Benz's AirScarf system, which blows warm air around the necks of front-seat passengers.

Mercedes-Benz uses Burmester as its high-end audio supplier and fits speakers onto the rear deck.

As with the S-class sedan and coupe, the instrument panel is one big LCD showing virtual gauges.

The AMG version gets a seven-speed automatic transmission with a lock-up clutch to make for quick gear changes.