Audi A5 Cabriolet convertible (2009-2017)
"The Audi A5 Cabriolet is a stylish, classy convertible, but it’s not the best car to drive."
Pros
- Impressive build quality
- Good range of engines
- Classy image
Cons
- High wind noise
- Vibrations in cabin
- Not the best to drive
The Audi A5 Cabriolet is a stylish, upmarket convertible that looks as good on the inside and is it does from the outside.
While the car undoubtedly looks sporty, it doesn’t quite live up to this promise out on the open road. It makes a great car for leisurely cruising but if you try to hustle it along in hope of discovering a razor-sharp driver’s car, you’ll be left disappointed; an unsettled ride and vague steering are the car’s major shortcomings in this regard.
As you’d expect of a car built by Audi, the A5 Cabriolet is relatively quiet and refined with the roof up, particularly if you go for the optional ‘acoustic roof’, and two rear seats and a good sized boot mean its practical for a convertible car too. Next to one of its main rivals, the BMW 4 Series Convertible, the Audi has the advantage that its fabric roof takes up a lot less boot space than a folding metal roof.
On a like-for-like basis, the A5 Cabriolet costs less than the BMW, and if you go for a diesel-powered model, the 148bhp 2.0-litre TDI in particular, then the car is quite reasonable to run too. There are three trim levels to choose from called SE, S line and range-topping S line Special Edition Plus, and all of them feature a good level of standard kit.
Audi A5 Cabriolet buyers can choose between four diesel and two petrol engines. The 187bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine is our top recommendation, as it delivers plenty of power and performance but doesn’t cost too much to run.
The entry-level SE trim level comes with enough kit to satisfy most buyers and also means the car has the softer standard suspension and smallest alloy wheels for better ride comfort. Bigger alloy wheels look good but you’ll have to be prepared for a trade-off in ride quality if you go for them.
The Audi A5 Cabriolet is a classy all-rounder but it will disappoint those looking for a truly engaging driving experience; if you think you fall into that category, it is definitely worth considering the BMW 4 Series convertible before taking the plunge.
