Everything about the new Mercedes-Benz S500 Cabriolet just spells luxury.

The last time there was a new open-top S-Class, a Japanese car in Singapore cost less than $3,000 and it would be nearly two decades before the arrival of the COE.

But 45 years later, there is another Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet and it is nothing short of opulent.

Based on the S-Class Coupe, this ultra-luxe convertible has a classic fabric roof and a twin powerdome bonnet.

The headlamps incorporate LED Intelligent Light System and they glisten with dozens of Swarovski crystals. Together with the imposing "diamond'' radiator grille, they add to the bling effect of this long and large four-seater convertible.

Inside, the Cabriolet cabin is identical to the Coupe, with its curvy tiered dashboard and pair of wide 31.2 cm TFT displays for the instrument cluster and centre screen.

The Night View Assist Plus highlights pedestrians and larger animals after dark, while the Magic Body Control active hydraulic suspension system ensures that the ride remains pillowy.

So even with the S500 Cabriolet's 4.7-litre turbocharged V8 petrol engine under the bonnet, this is a large and luxurious cruiser, not a hardcore sports car. It is fast - the century sprint takes less than 5.0 seconds. However, the massive 700 Nm delivered to the rear wheels through the silky 9G-Tronic is more like a strong but gentle hand, not a pneumatic hammer.

The S500 V8 is the "entry-level'' Cabriolet, with the Mercedes-AMG S63 4Matic V8 and Mercedes-AMG S65 V12 being the only other engine options. At 2,115 kg, the S500 is also the lightest of the trio.

Fold the roof to reveal the rear brushed metal speakers of Burmester 3D surround sound system and activate the Aircap automatic draught stop system.

Relax with a "hot stone massage'' that directs warm and gentle pressure - one of the front seat's six massage programs - and this sybaritic convertible confirms itself as one of the most luxurious open-air experiences to be enjoyed on the road.

Mercedes-Benz S500 Cabriolet

Engine 4,663cc V8 turbocharged

Gearbox 9-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission

Max power 455 hp @ 5,250-5,500 rpm

Max torque 700 Nm @ 1,800-3,500 rpm

0-100 kmh 4.6 secs

Top speed 250 kmh

CO2 emissions 212 g/km

Average OMV S$170,000

Price S$679,888 (with COE)

Distributor Cycle & Carriage T.6298 1818