Paris show: Cabriolet first for AMG GT C

MERCEDES-AMG has released a teaser video which confirms that a roadster version of its mighty high-performance GT sportscar will be unveiled at the Paris motor show later this month.

The drop-top AMG GT C will join the coupe range that currently comprises GT, GT S and GT R variants.

The German prestige car-maker is yet to reveal what the C stands for or where it will be positioned in relation to its V8 turbo brethren.

One possibility is that the GT C could be a more affordable entry-level version sitting below the current GT base variant, or the newest addition to the range may represent a more comfort-focused offering with extra equipment and a more compliant chassis.

A GT C variant was made official in July when Mercedes let slip a roadmap which laid out nine new models or variants chalked for reveal in 2017, and which revealed that a coupe version of the GT C will follow the initial roadster.

The AMG GT sportscar range was first unveiled in coupe form two years ago, and the GT onslaught is expected to continue with a four-door GT4 likely to join the range as a rival to the Porsche Panamera and BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.

The short GT C teaser video contains no technical or timing information for the roadster and is accompanied simply by the words “coming soon”.

Its low-lit profile appears to show a folding fabric roof similar to the solution used by its SLS predecessor and not a multi-panel folding hard-top that became the company’s sportscar trademark when it introduced the best-of-both-worlds SLK convertible in 1996.

Other teased features include rollover protection hoops behind a pair of beige seats and the smooth profile from neatly stowed roof to boot edge is unspoilt by a fixed spoiler – most likely indicating a pop-up speed-activated version as worn by the GT S.

Australia is not offered the full AMG GT range, with only the GT S currently available and the GT R set to join it next year. Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific is yet to confirm if the GT C will hit showrooms in either coupe or roadster form.

The Paris show opens its doors from September 29 to October 16.