Introduction

Audi didn’t need to radically reinvent its A4 Cabriolet to produce the first generation A5 Cabriolet model it first launched in 2009. A few tweaks and updates on the existing theme were always going to be sufficient to establish this drop top A5’s position at or near the top of the premium drop-top sector. It’s based on the A5 Coupe rather than the A4 saloon, with the extra wheelbase being put to good use in boosting practicality. A hood that lowers in 15s, a 380-litre boot and a range of impressive engines are the highlights.

What You Get

The styling of the MK1 model A5 Cabriolet is clearly derived from the classy MK1 model A5 Coupe. The understated bodywork hangs together with assured elegance and looks the part whether the hood is up or down. There’s room for a couple of fully-sized adults in the back, though six-footers won’t want to join you for longer trips.

At the wheel, there’s the usual classy Audi cabin, in this case enhanced by lovely touches like the ‘belt butler’ that passes the seat belt over your shoulder to you once you’re comfortably seated. As for the roof itself, it offers virtually all the refinement you’d get with a metal-folding top, thanks to sound-deadening foam encased within the inner and outer layers.

What To Look For

Audi has been making Cabriolet models for long enough to have ironed out most common convertible issues by the time this A5 Cabrio model was launched. Sure enough, most owners we found in our survey were very satisfied. We couldn’t find any reported instances of issues with the electric roof or examples of water ingress from it.

As for mechanical stuff, well, we found one owner who reported an oil light issue and a handful who had reported brake grinding issues. Corrosion is simply not an issue with Audis and another reason why resale values are high. Look for a fully stamped up service history and check for uneven tyre wear on the more powerful models.

Overall

Audi’s A4 Cabriolets have been highly successful for the brand down the years. With the MK1 A5 Cabriolet, the recipe is much the same, Audi’s cool brand image, stylish design language and slick interiors coupled with an expertly engineered fabric hood and a range of thrusting engines. Most A5 Cabriolet customers will have decided they want one long before they take a seat behind the wheel. You can see why.