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Audi A5 Cabriolet: refined roof-down runner

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29 April 2009

Audi A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI S line

Audi A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI S line

Audi A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI S line

What is it?

Elegant new soft-top version of Audi A5 coupe. Features fabric hood for lighter weight, easier storage. The roof can be opened in 15 seconds and closed in 17 seconds while on the move at up to 31mph. S line versions come with additional sound-reducing acoustic roof. First UK cars will feature start/stop technology absent from this early test car. Reduces CO2 emissions from 159g/km to 156g/km. The Audi A5 Cabriolet replaces the existing Audi A4 Cabriolet.

What’s hot?

  • Another elegant Audi cabriolet – but even more so
  • Latest 211PS turbo engine is a gem
  • Gives real mid-range punch…
  • …And a waspish growl to the engine note
  • But is a relaxed cruiser, which is what you want with a car like this
  • Emissions under key new 160g/km tax break
  • While fuel efficiency is 42.2mpg (more with stop-start)
  • Ability to raise/lower roof on the go is a big plus
  • Acoustic roof cuts down sound to Coupe levels
  • Comes with LED roof downlighters both in rear and front
  • Rear seats lower to extend boot luggage area
  • Optional neck-level heating system for cold but sunny days
  • Leather seats treated to reflect sun and stay cool

What’s not?

  • There is some bodyshake – a consequence of removing the roof
  • …But it won’t spoil your enjoyment
  • Engine can be flat-footed off turbo boost
  • Front wheels follow uneven road undulations when you’re driving fast
  • Boot space is limited despite 380 litre space with roof up
  • Desirable extras nudge up the price

What you need to Know?

P11D Value: 33,330
Monthly Rental*: 513 (CH)/£590 (PCH)
Tax Band when posted: 19%
Monthly BiK: 107 (20%)/£215 (40%)
Engine: 2.0 4-cyl petrol turbo
CO2 Emissions: 159g/km
Power/torque: 211PS/350Nm
Economy: 42.2mpg

Monthly contract hire (CH) and personal contract hire (PCH) rentals generated by Concept Vehicle Leasing. Based on a 36 month lease at 10,000 miles a year, 3+35 payments.

Business Car Manager Road Test Rating

Audi has a history of making elegant convertibles. The new Audi A5 Cabriolet adds to that lineage. And the 2.0 TFSI is the key model for business users – especially when the 180PS model arrives in September 2009. Just make sure you budget to accommodate those nice little optional extras that add additional refinement to an already cultured package.

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Ralph Morton

Ralph Morton

Ralph Morton is an award-winning journalist and the founder of Business Car Manager (now renamed Business Motoring). Ralph writes extensively about the car and van leasing industry as well as wider fleet and company car issues. A former editor of What Car?, Ralph is a vastly experienced writer and editor and has been writing about the automotive sector for over 35 years.

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