This may not be the best timing, what with Storm Doris recently causing havoc in the UK, but Audi has announced the new A5 and S5 Cabriolets are available to order. Don’t worry, I’m sure the weather will get better – it has to, right? Anyway, that’s enough about the weather – back on to the cars.
Driving Au-Fresco
Starting from respective prices of £35,235 and £51,835, the A5 and the S5 Cabriolets are now available to order with deliveries starting in spring. The base model A5 comes fitted with a 2.0 litre TFSI petrol, but there is also a choice of a 2.0 or 3.0 litre diesel, plus quattro four wheel drive can also be specified. The S5 on the other hand goes into battle packing a meaty 3.0 litre TFSI petrol, which produces 349 hp and is mated to an 8-speed S Tronic automatic box.
No matter which model you choose, you’ll be able to take advantage of the joys of open-top driving. However, if the weather does happen to spite you then the roof can be operated using a new one touch system, meaning that with one simple flick of a switch the roof rises to protect you from the elements. A wind deflector is also present in the new A5 and S5 droptop models and as an optional extra you’ll be able to get head level heating.
What About Power?
Naturally if you’re looking for power, you’ll need to look at the S5 model which produces 349 hp and comes with quattro four wheel drive. It will hit 62 mph in 5.1 seconds and then continue onto a limited top speed of 155 mph. If the S5 is a bit out of your reach, then the 249 hp 2.0 litre TFSI available in the A5 should fit the bill. Priced from £43,980 on the Sport trim, this engine offers a 0-62 sprint time of 6.6 seconds with a top speed of 149 mph.
There are also two diesels available; a 2.0 litre which produces 187hp and a 3.0 litre V6 which produces 215 hp. Those seeking economy should opt for the 2.0 litre unit, which is able to give 62.8 mpg when offered in two wheel drive and 60.1 mpg with the quattro system. The 3.0 litre has performance on its side, offering a 0-62 of 6.8 seconds and a top speed 149 mph.
What Else?
The cabriolets receive an exclusive colour option that is not available on other A5/S5 models, which is a crystal effect Tofana White. Speaking of colours, the fabric hoods will be available in red, black, dark grey and brown, so there should be something for everyone. As you would expect from an Audi, there will be a good level of kit including heated front seats, which are standard across the range, as well as adaptive cruise control, leather seats, alloy wheels and parking sensors front and rear.
Other options available for the new model include Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, which gives the driver a gorgeous digital display with key information on it, plus you can also choose options such as a Bang & Olufsen sound system and Matrix LED headlights. Just be cautious with the options list though, as it’s very easy for the starting price to climb rather dramatically!
If you do fancy getting your hands on one, you can do so now and you can expect to have it time for the summer.
