The A5->ke1188 is among the first models in Audi's->ke14 plan to expand its line-up to 35 models by 2015. While the coupe version was launched in 2007, the Convertible followed in 2009 in both A5 and S5 versions. The A5 Cabriolet came as a replacement for the A4 Cabriolet, but it was more elegant and dynamic than the model it replaced. Now, the 2012 Audi Cabriolet is getting freshened up with a more dynamic design, improved engines, a brand new 1.8 TFSI four cylinder engine, quattro drive, and an infotainment system.

The 2012 A5 is being offered with both FSI and TDI engines combined to either a six-speed manual gearbox or the multitronic continuously variable transmission, but the biggest news for the 2012 MY is the addition of the new 1.8 TFSI four cylinder engine. This new engine will deliver a monumental fuel efficiency of 41 mpg, compared to the combined 25mpg of the 2.0 TFSI from last year. The full engine range is still available for customers wanting to dance between power and fuel efficiency, but now the options have just become a bit greener.

Hit the jump to get more details on the 2009-2012 Audi A5 Convertible.

2009 - 2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2009 - 2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet
  • Engine/Motor: TFSI four cylinder engine
  • Horsepower: 170
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

2009-2011 Audi A5 Convertible

The Audi A5 is simply eye-candy: it is elegant, sporty, and dynamic, giving it an excellent advantage when put up against its competitors. The model features a single-frame grille, right-angled headlights and large air inlets, and a V-shape engine bonnet.

The A5 is a tribute to the Ur-quattro and the Audi R8. The mighty trapezoidal C pillar remind us of the Ur-quattro model, as do the curving contours of the wheel arches. The rear is defined by powerfully styled tail lights, a rear spoiler, and rear diffuser highlighted by its contrasting paint finish and framed by the exhaust tailpipes.

2012 Audi A5 Convertible

For 2012, the Audi A5 Convertible has received a single-frame grille in high-gloss black, a new bumper featuring pronounced air inlets with massive struts, revamped grilles, and flat fog lights. The engine hood has received sharply chiseled edges that give it a three-dimensional look, while the entire front end appears flatter and wider.

The headlights have also been improved. Their lower edge forms a wave, while LED daytime running lights form a narrow, homogenous clasp framing the headlight. Xenon plus headlights are offered as an option. Customers interested can also get an adaptive light system with dynamic cornering light and turning light. The rear lights have also been redesigned and are optionally available with continuous LED light strips. The bumper includes a number of additional details.

Interior

2009-2011 Audi A5 Convertible

The A5's interior was specially design for the driver's needs. The instruments and center console are brought together in one unit integrating all display elements and controls. The seats are impressively comfortable and are covered in subtly shimmering Valcona leather.

Upon request, Audi is also offering sport seats with expendable thigh rests and electric lumbar support, and all-electric adjustment and heating, including heating for the back seats as a separate option.

2012 Audi A5 Convertible

The interior of the 2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet has also been updated with new colors and better quality materials, as well as new steering wheels. Optional features include a flattened ring, new steering column stalks, and with narrow chrome clasps framing the control elements.

Audi has also updated the ignition key, the selector lever for the automatic transmission, the button for the optional Audi drive select system, and the controls of the high-efficiency air conditioning and multifunction steering wheel. All displays are now illuminated in white.

The S line sport package will get a black interior with elegant applications. It adds a sport suspension that lowers the vehicle's body by 0.39" and will also get 18" wheels.

Engine line-up

2009-2011 Audi A5 Convertible

In 2009, the A5 was launched with three turbocharged gasoline engines (ranging from 211 hp to 354 hp) and two diesel engines for the European market. The 3.2 liter V6 delivered a total of 265 HP and 243.4 lb-ft at between 3,000 and 5,000 rpm. In this configuration the A5 sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds and was capable of hitting a top speed of 152 mph.

The 2.0 TFSI engine was offered in two versions: one with 180 hp and the other with 211 HP. European customers also recieved a V6 TDI engine with 240 hp, a 2.7-liter unit with 190 hp, and a 2.0 TDI with 170 HP.

2012 Audi A5 Convertible

For the 2012 model year, all of the engines are being offered with forced induction and direct injection, as well as a start-stop system and recuperation system. Customers will have the possibility to choose between three gasoline engines and four TDI units.

New for the 2012 model is the 1.8 TFSI four cylinder engine which will now be the base engine for the A5 line. Audi has updated the control of the valves and their lift, the thermal management concept, the injection system, the turbocharger, and the integration of the exhaust manifold to get an engine that can deliver a total of 170 HP and an impressive fuel economy of 41.27 US mpg. The 211 HP 2.0 TFSI engine remains unchanged, and the top models will receive a new 272 HP supercharged 3.0 TFSI V6.

The diesel line-up will include a 177 HP 2.0 TDI engine with a fuel consumption of 50.05 US mpg and three V6 diesel units with power ranging from 204 HP to 245 HP.

Prices

The 2011 Audi A5 Cabriolet is already out on the market, with prices beginning at $42,000 for the Premium model. The Premium Plus Audi A5 Cabriolet comes in at $45,700 and the Prestige is priced at $50,700. Of course, these base prices always comes with options that will shoot that price tag right up. Check out the tables provided for the tasty choices.

Packages

Price

Comfort Package

$2,400

Sport Package

$1,000

S-Line Package

$1,500

Audi Drive Select

$2,950


Options

Price

Dark Walnut Wood Dec Inlays

$350

Audi Adaptive Cruise Control

$2,100

Cinnamon Brown Milano Leather Seats

$1,000


Despite the fact that the Audi A5 has been significantly improved, Audi has announced that prices will remain almost identical to the 2011 model year. For the European market, Audi has announced an increase of only 200 euro ($280 at the current exchange rates). Prices for the US market will be announced at a later date.

Competition

The Audi A5 Convertible takes on models like the BMW 3-Series Convertible and the Lexus IS Convertible.

While the more powerful Audi S5 is usually put up against the BMW 335i model, the A5 Convertible fits in much better with BMW's 328i version on both performance and price. The 328i is powered by a 3.0-liter, inline 6-cylinder engine with 230 HP and is priced from $46,450. However, the A5 has the advantage of being a more elegant model and it also has more version to choose from.

The Lexus IS Convertible is offered in two different versions: IS250 and IS350. The IS250C is powered by a 2.5-liter V6 delivering 205 hp, while the IS350 is powered by a 3.6 liter V6 engine that delivers a total of 306 hp. Prices for the IS model start from $39,440.