Convertibles

Already 145,000 customers worldwide enthusiastic about the current Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Stuttgart -- Aug 08, 2008 -- Stuttgart – Mercedes-Benz has gotten off to a good start in the “convertible season” with its updated models. Since spring of 2008, the new generation SL-Class has been carrying on the brand’s unparalleled sports car tradition, which began in 1954 with the legendary “gull-wing” 300 SL.

2009 Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster

The latest - and now the fifth - generation of the SL-Class has so far been chosen by 145,000 customers.

ALFDORF, Germany, June 17, 2008 -- A subsidiary of TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. (NYSE: TRW), TRW Automotive GmbH, today unveiled a new head protection system for convertible vehicles. It is the first system located in the seat mount rather than the door trim - designed to offer head protection for the unique characteristics of convertibles. The development furthers TRW's strategy of innovation to help vehicle manufacturers provide intelligent safety solutions for consumers.

The system combines a thorax or pelvic-thorax module together with a head restraint module located in the upper seat-back. It is due to be launched with a major European vehicle manufacturer during the first half of this year.

Experts say the best-selling convertible offers health benefits of sun-filled driving fun

DEARBORN, Mich., June 4, 2008 -- When Ford Chief Engineer for Safety Systems Steve Kozak decided to give a new car to his teenage daughter as a graduation gift only one model would do: the 2008 Ford Mustang GT convertible, the No. 1-selling and top safety-rated drop-top in the U.S.

2008 Ford Mustang V6 Pony Package Convertible

Highlights:
* The 2008 Ford Mustang GT is first convertible ever with top National Highway Traffic Safety Administration safety ratings.
* Experts say the best-selling convertible offers health benefits of sun-filled driving fun.

The 9-3 Convertible confirms Saab’s leading position in the premium convertible segment and is the product of more than 20 years’ experience in designing four-seater, four season soft tops that are as practical as they are stylish.

The Saab Convertible has a level of structural integrity, build quality and running refinement that places it at the very top of its class.

2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible

The XLR roadster, Cadillac’s bold entry into the elite club of luxury convertibles, adds a dash of exclusivity to its unique combination of performance, advanced technology and dramatic design. The XLR is an icon for Cadillac’s ongoing renaissance, expressing the brand’s resurgence in the categories of serious performance, image, luxury and technical sophistication.

2008 Cadillac XLR-V

The XLR represents the top of the Cadillac range with two basic models: the XLR with a 320-horsepower (239 kW) 4.6L Northstar V-8 VVT; and the XLR-V high-performance variant – the quickest and most agile Cadillac ever offered – with a 443-horsepower (330 kW) 4.4L Northstar V-8 supercharged engine.

The 2008 Jeep® Wrangler Unlimited is the only four-door convertible on the market, with room for five adult passengers, and it offers a lot more: the most cargo space ever offered in a Wrangler, class-leading off-road capability, plus everyday practicality.

“The 2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is a fun, capable convertible with room for five adults. It’s a practical vehicle with enough cargo capacity for everyday tasks, and it’s the most capable off-roader on the planet.” said George Murphy, Senior Vice President – Global Brand Marketing, Chrysler Group.

2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler is raising the roof on the convertible segment, introducing the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible. This completely redesigned Sebring Convertible is built on the company’s new D-segment platform and offers what no other convertible on the road can offer: Chrysler’s sleek and elegant design, exhilarating performance with excellent fuel efficiency, a spacious interior that comfortably seats four adults and enough room in the trunk to hold two golf bags, even when the top is dropped.

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

October 1, 2007 – Torrance, CA - The Toyota Camry Solara Coupe and Convertible carry into 2008 unchanged after receiving extensive upgrades last model year. Nine years into its model cycle, the Solara is still one of the best values in its segment as it packages sporty refinement.

2008 Toyota Camry Solara Coupe

Solara Coupe is available in three model grades: SE, highlighted by sporty metallic finish interior trim; Sport with its unique exterior styling, enhanced handling and special interior trim; and SLE with additional luxury content and woodgrain-style interior trim. All models feature eye-catching LED taillights, and a standard rear spoiler accentuates the sporty profile.

Launch

The all new Volvo C70 is the second-generation convertible from Volvo Cars. It was launched at the Frankfurt motor show in September 2005. The aim was to create two cars in one - without compromising on either. A three-piece retractable hardtop transforms the Volvo C70 from coupe to convertible at the touch of a button.

2008 Volvo C70

The all new Volvo C70 has been developed in close cooperation with Pininfarina of Italy.

Business project manager: Patrik Widerstrand.

Design