Audi A5 Cabriolet 3.0 TDI SE multitronic 2dr Car Review - January 2012

The Audi A5 3.0 TDI SE multitronic is an 8-speed multitronic automatic transmission open car powered by a V6-cylinder, 24-valve engine. With an acceleration rate of 7.6 seconds from 0- 62 mph, this car is fast. Its combined mpg of 54.3 and a top speed of 143 mph rate this car as good for both town and out of town drives.

The 2967cc engine has the power of 206 bhp at 3500 to 4500 rpm and a torque of 295 ft-lb at 1250 to 3500 rpm. Grip is alright though the A5 is nose-heavy. The steering is not consistent that vibrations can be felt through the car’s wheel. The suspension is a bit rigid making for an unsettling ride. The powerful yet quiet engine seems wasted because of the jittery ride and shifty steering. The acoustic fabric roof has extra insulation but road noise is only slightly muted.

A5’s platform may be new but its architecture is traditional. The front axle’s position has been moved forward making the A5’s mass and weight evenly distributed across the two axles. The A5 is definitely a looker with its interior immaculate and fresh, with seats that are comfortable. However, the driving position has some niggles such as off-centre pedals. The fully-electric fabric roof is neater to fold than a metal version.

As with all Audis, this 2-seater has a well-appointed interior and the front seats have ample space. Electronic climate control is available across the range. Standards are electric parking brake, electrically adjustable and heated mirrors, leather trim, wind deflector, automatic headlights, rain sensitive wipers, 3-zone climate control and parking sensors to name a few. Available as options are cruise control, sat nav, reversing camera, lane departure warning, hands-free phone kit and heated seats. SE models have more kits.

The A5 has more room than most of its rivals. Since the fabric roofing neatly folds into a small space, the boot is not fully filled when it is lowered. Boot space is 380 litres for luggage and about 750 litres when the roof is up and the back seats are folded. Though this 2-door sports car can sit 4 grown-ups, tall people would not want to be stuck at the back longer than necessary due to restricted headroom.

The A5 Cabriolet 3.0 TDI has not been tested and rated by Euro NCAP. Based on past performances of Audis, the A5 will most probably rate high too as the A4, which shares similarities with the A5 has a 5/5 NCAP rating. All versions of the A5 have been fitted with ESP or electronic stability control, air bags and standard safety kits. The cloth roof is not as safe as the metal version. CO2 emission rating is 138g/km. Warranty is 3 years/60,000.

An Audi A5 is expensive than a Mazda MX-5 Open but is cheaper than a BMW 3 Series. Overall, both rival brands are better than an Audi A5 in more aspects. Though standards on this car are acceptable, the resale value would be better if options such as sat nav are installed.

Diesel-fed and with a 54.3 mpg, this model should be frugal. Depreciation of the A5 should be modest with the running cost of diesel-engines lower than petrol models. Repairs and maintenance services offered by Audi dealers are not cheap. It falls under insurance group 33 with an estimated typical insurance of £865. Road Tax group is E.