Audi A5

Text: Sam Hardy / Photos: Stefan Baldauf

17th October 2007

There’s a cover-up at Audi – but our spies have seen through it! This disguised prototype is the firm’s new A5 Cabriolet, which we’ve snapped testing near the firm’s HQ in Germany.

Going on sale next year, the model will strengthen the A5 range and is set to compete directly with the current best-selling executive drop-top – BMW’s 3-Series Convertible.

Unlike that car, the A5 Cabriolet will not get a folding metal roof. Instead it will continue Audi’s tradition of fabric hoods, which the company believes is the best compromise bet-ween styling, packaging and cost.

The fully electric top will offer excellent refinement, thanks to its multi-layered construction. And even though the hood folds into the boot, the A5 Cabriolet should still be practical, with plenty of luggage space.

It will also drive well. The hard-top version has been praised for its handling, and the Cabriolet promises to match this. Under the bonnet will be the same line-up of engines as the coupé – a 3.2-litre V6 petrol, plus 2.7-litre and 3.0-litre TDI diesels. The range will be topped off by the S5 Cabriolet, which will have a 4.2-litre V8 and quattro four-wheel drive.

The drop-top is likely to make its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March and go on sale in summer, starting at about £33,000 for the 2.7-litre TDI model.

Meanwhile, the A5 coupé has been fitted with its first four-cylinder engine. The 168bhp 1.8T FSI is priced from £26,190, and standard kit includes a six-speed gearbox, leather trim, climate control and rear parking sensors. First UK deliveries are in November.

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