Skip advert
Advertisement

Audi RS5 Cabriolet

If you’re after a fast four-seater convertible, look no further than the RS5. But it’s not as thrilling to drive as rivals here.

Where the F-Type is compact and taut, Audi’s four-seat RS5 Cabriolet is big and brawny. It gets the same flared wheelarches, silver mesh grille and huge alloys as the coupé and – as with all RS models – it’s anything but subtle.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Inside, it has the same high-quality fit and finish we expect of all Audis. But considering that this is the A5 Cabriolet flagship, it looks too similar to lesser models, with new sports seats, a different steering wheel and RS badging being the only clues to its high status.

Under the bonnet is the same 444bhp 4.2-litre V8 as is found in the coupe. While this has been around for some years, its strong mid-range power and rumbling V8 are very addictive. Quattro 4WD helps the relatively heavy RS5 cover 0-60mph five-tenths slower than the Jag, in 5.1 seconds.

But it’s in corners where the RS5 loses touch with the F-Type. While there’s huge 4WD traction, the steering is lifeless and you feel detached from the action. Audi’s Drive Select lets you tailor the damping, steering and throttle, yet the drive isn’t as sharp as in rivals.

Still, this four-seater is a great long-distance cruiser, despite its 19-inch alloy wheels and firm suspension. It has a distinct practicality advantage, too. The trouble is, in this company its performance on the road is found wanting.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Our latest car deals

Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £31,535Avg. savings £3,985 off RRP*Compare Offers
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,155Avg. savings £2,485 off RRP*Compare Offers
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £18,505Avg. savings £3,518 off RRP*Compare Offers
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £27,565Avg. savings £2,749 off RRP*Compare Offers
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: new MG4 long-range EV for a ridiculously low price
MG4 - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: new MG4 long-range EV for a ridiculously low price

The MG4 is one of our favourite EVs on account of its sheer value for money. It’s our Deal of the Day for 11 December
News
11 Dec 2024
New Mercedes CLA will do 800 miles with just 20 minutes of charging
Mercedes CLA prototype - full front action

New Mercedes CLA will do 800 miles with just 20 minutes of charging

Cutting-edge charging tech and a slippery body allow the new Mercedes CLA to cover over 1,000km with two brief stops
News
13 Dec 2024
Extreme Renault 5 Turbo 3E will be built! Limited production run for 500bhp, rear-drive EV
Renault 5 Turbo 3E - front

Extreme Renault 5 Turbo 3E will be built! Limited production run for 500bhp, rear-drive EV

Outrageous electrified hot hatch gets the green light, with supercar performance and £100k-plus price tag
News
13 Dec 2024