The second-generation Audi A5 was unveiled in 2016, nearly ten years after the sporty coupe arrived on the market to replace the 90 model. Designed around the A4 sedan, which broke cover in 2015, the new A5 gained more angular body lines, a "Singleframe" grille that’s wider and flatter than before, a modern interior with Audi’s new "continuous air vent strip" design, and a revised engine lineup.

2015 was quite a busy year for Audi, with the Germans launching the Q7, A4 and R8, and 2016 turned out to be just as crowded, with at least as many new vehicles from the Ingolstadt-based company. One such model is the A5 Convertible, which broke cover in early November after many months of testing with camouflaged bodies. Overhauled in order to give the BMW 4 Series Convertible and the brand-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Convertible a run for their money, the A5 drop-top is almost identical to the coupe aside from the soft-top and additional chassis and body reinforcement.

Audi’s new design language, classy interiors, and updated drivetrains should at least make the new A5 a strong competitor in this crowded niche, while the lighter weight and underpinnings make the convertible quicker and more nimble than the previous model. Find out more about all that in my detailed review below.

Continue reading to learn more about the 2017 Audi A5 Convertible.

2017 Audi A5 Convertible

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2017 Audi A5 Convertible
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

Not surprisingly, the A5 Convertible is identical to its coupe sibling below the waist line. Up front, it sports the same "Singleframe" grille which is flatter and wider than before, while the hood has the same muscular lines and power dome. The headlamps and bumper also have the sharper lines we've seen for the first time on the latest-generation Q7 and A4. Xenon headlamps are standard, while LED and Matrix units with dynamic turn signals are optional.

The rear of the car is also sportier than ever before thanks to the horizontal lines that makes it seem wider despite being slightly narrower than the outgoing model, while the rear window is flatter. The revised taillights get LED technology as standard. Just like the coupe, the new convertible is longer than the outgoing model. With a length of 4,673 mm (15.3 feet), the new A5 Cabriolet gained 47 mm (1.9 inches) over its predecessor.

Side-by-side comparison: New A5 Convertible vs Old A5 Convertible

Compared to the competition, the new A5 Convertible is a fresh yet rather subdued proposition to the BMW 4 Series. It's also looks rather bland compared to the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Convertible, but Audi's simple styling cues and "same sausage, different length" strategy already has a solid fan base.

COMPETING DESIGNS

Currently the most popular choice in this niche, the BMW 4 Series Convertible came to be in 2013, when the company's two-door compacts adopted the 4 Series name over the 3 Series moniker. The German convertible was updated for the 2018 model year (left), but changes were kept to a minimum, with highlights including revised headlamps and slightly modified bumpers. Overall, the 4 Series drop-top retained the evolutionary, yet handsome style of the pre-facelift model, but gained a few sportier touches with an M-inspired front end and some extra options.

No German premium car comparison is complete without Mercedes-Benz, and in this case we need to look at the C-Class Cabriolet (right). Brand-new for 2017, it is based on the W205-generation sedan that was launched in 2014. Design-wise, the C-Class Cabriolet is the only car in this comparison that's significantly different than its predecessor. Not only the styling is rather revolutionary, the C-Class is also a more organic, muscular proposition that stands out next to both the 4 Series Convertible and A5 Convertible, but especially when compared to the Audi. The S-class-inspired design with the long and slender taillights and wide front stance also helps.

Exterior Dimensions

Mercedes C-Class Cabriolet

BMW 4 Series Convertible

Audi A5 Cabrio

Wheelbase (Inches)

111.8

110.6

108.3

Overall length (Inches)

184.5

182.6

182.1

Overall height (Inches)

55.5

54.5

54.4

Overall width (Inches)

71.3

71.9

79.5

Track front/rear (Inches)

61.5/60.9

60.8/62.8

62.6/62.1


Interior

Unlike the exterior, which has an evolutionary design, the interior has been redesigned from the ground up, ditching all of the dated cues of the outgoing model. As seen in the new A5 Coupe, the previous dashboard was replaced by a new unit with a continuous air-vent strip, while the new center console sports a cleaner look. Both give the cabin a more high-tech appearance and enhanced roominess. The cabriolet also received a new steering wheel with revised buttons, a larger, free-standing display for the infotainment system, and a new air conditioning unit.

The larger exterior dimensions also translate into a roomier interior. With the wheelbase having gained an extra 14 mm (0.6 inches) and the seats being more compact, shoulder room in the front row of seats has increased by 26 mm (1.0 inches), while knee room in the rear was enhanced by 18 mm (0.7 inches).

On the tech side of things, the drop-top is loaded with Audi’s latest gadgets. A 12.3-inch TFT screen replaces the dated instrument cluster, while an seven-inch tablet screen (8.3-inch optionally) sits atop the dash. A rotary button on the center tunnel and a touchpad enable the driver to browse through the infotainment functions.

Drivetrain

Customers also have access to a MMI Navigation Plus package, which includes an onboard SIM card that provides free web access for up to three years. The new Wi-Fi hotspot provides connectivity for up to eight devices. Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a USB device charger are all standard. The lengthy options list include inductive smartphone charging and a high-end Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Practicality isn't the A5 Convertible's strong spot, but the car does benefit from 380 liters (13.4 cu feet) of luggage space with the soft-top up. Speaking of the top, the revised canvas roof has new insulation for a quieter interior. Opening and closing is done with just a quick pull of the switch and takes only 15 and 18 seconds, respectively. The roof can be operated while driving up to 31 mph (50 km/h).

COMPETING PERFORMANCE

BMW's interior designs have always been attractive and modern, despite not being on the flamboyant side. The same applies for the 4 Series Convertible (left), despite the lack of major design updates in the mid-cycle facelift. The dashboard layout is simple and intuitive, with the A/C vents and controls placed in the center stack and the infotainment screen sitting above. The asymmetric, driver-oriented dash features high-end materials and soft-touch surfaces, while the sport steering wheel is wrapped in leather. The front seats provide solid lateral support and come wrapped in double-stitching upholstery for a premium look. New features include high-gloss black finish for the center stack and electroplated trim on the air vents, armrest controls, and center tunnel. An infotainment system update added new navigation and instrumentation displays, and a tile-based interface similar to that of a smartphone. There's also Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices, USB ports, BMW's Connected Services, and optional Apple CarPlay.

Often described as the premium compact with the best looking interior, the C-Class Cabriolet (right) sports an S-Class-inspired dashboard with a clean and simple layout, organic cues, and the trademark round A/C vents in the center stack and the "floating" infotainment screen above. Comfort is not an issue in the front seats, which can also provide optimum support for spirited driving. There are 13 different upholstery variants and seven trim levels available, with materials including aluminum, carbon fiber, silver fiber glass, and open-pore wood in either brown or black. The optional Comand Online system adds an 8.4-inch display, navigation, and Wi-Fi hotspot. The AirScarf neck heater, a feature you can't get from the competition, keeps you warm while driving with the top down. There's also the electric AirCap system, which reduces air turbulence inside the cabin.

As far as passenger and luggage room goes, the A5 Convertible is the least spacious vehicle. Although it provides more headroom front and rear than the C-Class, it's not as roomy as the 4 Series. The Audi is inferior to its competitors in both legroom and shoulder room department. On the other hand, it wins the battle when it comes to cargo space with the roof folded inside the trunk. The A5 can swallow 10.2 cubic feet of luggage, 1.4 more than the C-Class and a whopping 2.4 more than the 4 Series.

BMW 430i Convertible

BMW 430i xDrive Convertible

BMW 440i Convertible

BMW 440i xDrive Convertible

Mercedes C300 Convertible

Mercedes-AMG C43 Convertible

Engine

38.8/35.6

40.4/37.1

40.0/36.3

Horsepower

42.0/32.0

42.2/33.1

41.3/31.9

Transmission

54.8/51.7

55.3/49.8

54.3/46.8

Acceleration 0–60 mph

8.8

7.8

10.2


Suspension and Chassis

Naturally, the convertible shares its engines with the coupe, but at first, only three drivetrains will be offered. The drop-top will go on sale with a 2.0-liter TFSI rated at 252 horsepower, a 2.0-liter TDI with 190 horses, and a 3.0-liter TDI with 218 horsepower. Following the market introduction, Audi will also offer a 2.0 TFSI with 190 hp and a 3.0 TDI with 286 hp. Compared to the previous model, the revised engines offer up to 17 percent more power, while consuming as much as 22 percent less fuel.

In the transmission department, there's a six-speed manual transmission, seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox, and an eight-speed tiptronic. The drive is provided as standard via the front wheels, while Quattro all-wheel drive with Ultra technology and permanent AWD are available as options. The latter comes as standard for the 286-horsepower 3.0 TDI.

Performance figures are not yet available, but the new-generation model should be quicker thanks to the extra power and reduced total weight. The new cabriolet is, depending on drivetrain and specification, lighter by up to 40 kg (88.2 pounds). For instance, the front-wheel-drive A5 Cabriolet with the 190-horsepower 2.0-liter TDI tips the scales at 1,690 kg (3725.8 pounds).

The performance-oriented S5 Cabriolet also gained a new engine. The turbocharged, 3.0-liter V-6 produced 354 horsepower, 21 more than the uni tin the previous model.

Find out more about the Chevrolet Corvette Convertible here.

Learn more about the Ford Mustang Convertible here.

2.0-liter four-cylinder

2.0-liter four-cylinder

3.0-liter six-cylinder

3.0 TFSI® quattro AWD

Updated 07/18/2016:

252 HP @ 5,000-6,000 RPM

190 HP

216 HP

354 HP @ 5,400-6,400 RPM

Updated 06/13/2016:

273 LB-FT @ 1,600-4,400 RPM

TBA

TBA

369 LB-FT @ 1,370-4,500 RPM

Updated 06/09/2016:

six-speed manual

six-speed manual

six-speed manual

Eight-speed Tiptronic


July 18, 2016 - Audi A5 Convertible caught testing in Spain

Much like the A5 Convertible, the 4 Series Convertible comes to the U.S. with significantly fewer drivetrains compared to those available in Europe. Specifically, customers will get to choose between the 430i and 440i variants. The 430i gets its juice from BMW's familiar 2.0-liter four-cylinder powerplant. The turbocharged four-banger cranks out 252 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which puts it on par with the A5's 252-horsepower 2.0-liter TFSI. Next up is the 440i, using a turbocharged, 3.0-liter V-6 good for 326 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of twist. Both drivetrains can be had with xDrive all-wheel-drive. In Europe, the 4 Series also gets a 184-horsepower version of the 2.0-liter as well as a diesel four-cylinder that generates either 190 or 224 horsepower.

Unlike its competitors, Mercedes-Benz offers just one non-AMG drivetrain in the U.S.. Specifically, the C300 model comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is optional. If you want enough oomph to compete against the range-topping 4 Series or the S5, you need to go with the AMG C43 version. Powered by an AMG-enhanced, 3.0-liter V-6, the C43 benefits from 362 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This model comes standard with AWD.

BMW 430i Convertible

BMW 430i xDrive Convertible

BMW 440i Convertible

BMW 440i xDrive Convertible

Mercedes C300 Convertible

Mercedes-AMG C43 Convertible

Learn more about the Ford Mustang Convertible here.

2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder

2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder

3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder

3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder

2.0-liter inline-4 turbo

3.0-liter V6 biturbo

Horsepower

248 HP @ 5,200 RPM

248 HP @ 5,200 RPM

320 HP @ 5,500 RPM

320 HP @ 5,500 RPM

241 HP @ 5,550 RPM

362 HP @ 5,500-6,000 RPM

Torque

258 LB-FT @ 1,450–4,800 RPM

258 LB-FT @ 1,450–4,800 RPM

330 LB-FT @ 1,380–5,000 RPM

330 LB-FT @ 1,380–5,000 RPM

273 LB-FT @ 1,300-4,000 RPM

384 LB-FT @ 2,000-4,200 RPM

Updated 06/09/2016:

8-speed Sport Automatic

8-speed Sport Automatic

8-speed Sport Automatic

8-speed Sport Automatic

9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic

AMG-enhanced 9G-TRONIC

Acceleration 0–60 mph

6.0 seconds

6.1 seconds

5.1 seconds

5.1 seconds

6.3 seconds

4.7 seconds

Top speed

130 mph

130 mph

130 mph

130 mph

130 mph

155 mph

Fuel economy city/highway/combined

23/34/27

22/32/26

21/29/24

20/30/24

23/31

19/26

Curb Weight

4,050 Lbs

4,211 Lbs

4,169 Lbs

4,330 Lbs

3,836 Lbs

4,145 Lbs


Suspension and Chassis

The A5 Convertible gained an updated five-link suspension at the front axle and a five-link construction instead of the trapezoidal-link suspension at the rear. Audi also offers adaptive dampers, which are incorporated into the standard Audi drive select dynamic handling system, as an option. This feature allows the driver to choose between a highly dynamic or comfortable driving experience. The newly developed electromechanical power steering offers greater steering precision. The optional dynamic steering builds on that by changing its gear ratio depending on the speed and steering angle.

Safety

Several improvements were made in the safety department too. First up, Audi added additional struts in the body and reinforced sills to make up for the missing fixed roof. In the event of a crash and rollover, head-thorax side airbags and automatically extending aluminum pylons ensure the occupants’ safety. The drop-top also features collision avoidance assist, which activates if the car needs to drive around an obstacle to avoid an accident. Based on data gathered from the front camera and radar sensors, it creates a recommended driving line within a fraction of a second. Other assistance systems include turn assist, park assist, rear cross traffic assist, exit warning, camera-based recognition of traffic signs, Audi active lane assist, and Audi side assist.

The optional Audi connect and safety & service package adds auto emergency call, online roadside assistance, and Audi service request, as well as remote features through the MMI connect app, which allows smartphones, smart watches, and even Apple TV users to lock and unlock doors, start the engine, check the vehicle status, and locate the vehicle.

Prices

U.S. pricing for the new A5 Convertible is not yet available, but it should be only a bit more expensive than the current model. The outgoing drop-top was priced from $47,900 in base trim and from $50,200 in the Premium Plus version. Production of the redesigned A5 should begin toward the end of 2016. In Europe, where the car will arrive in dealerships in March 2017, the A5 Cabriolet starts from €49,350.

COMPETING PRICES

Pricing for U.S. models of the updated 4 Series has yet to be released, but should remain around $51,000 for the 430i and $58,000 for the 440i. Add an extra $2,000 to those sums if you want AWD grip. As for the C-Class Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz is asking $50,900 for the base C300 model, while the all-wheel-drive version retails from $52,900. The AMG C43 retails from $60,400, which is similar to what BMW is asking for the 440i.

BMW 430i Convertible

$50,300

BMW 430i xDrive Convertible

$52,300

BMW 440i Convertible

$57,300

BMW 440i xDrive Convertible

$59,300

Mercedes C300 Cabriolet

$50,900

Mercedes C300 4Matic Cabriolet

$52,900

Mercedes-AMG C43

$60,400

Audi A5 Convertible

TBA


The All-American Options

While the premium compact coupe market offers plenty of options to the A5, 4 Series, and C-Class Coupe, including the Lexus RC and Cadillac ATS Coupe, the convertible niche is pretty limited because most automakers don't offer drop-top versions of their two-doors. As a result, we need to look into other markets for more propositions.

Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

Although not a traditional competitor for the German cars mentioned above, the Camaro suffered a significant transformation in recent years. Slightly smaller, sportier, and lighter, the pony car morphed into a full-fledged sports coupe, while the increasingly better materials that Chevy added inside moved it closer to the premium market. The sixth-generation Camaro Convertible arrived in 2015 with a new design, a modern, electro-hydraulic power roof, and a stiffer, lighter structure. The Camaro also embraced a turbo four-cylinder engine for the first time in decades, thus giving customers access to a more fuel efficient model. Speaking of which, the 2.0-liter turbo-four cranks out 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the more traditional 3.6-liter V-6 was upgraded to 335 horses and 248 pound-feet of twist. Finally, the 6.2-liter V-8 generates 455 horsepower and 455 pound-feet. There is some bad news though, as the Camaro isn't available with all-wheel-drive. On the flipside, the Camaro is significantly more affordable than the German compacts above. The base four-cylinder model starts from $33,595, the V-6 retails from $35,090, while the V-8 comes in at $43,900 before options.

Find out more about the Chevrolet Corvette Convertible here.

Ford Mustang Convertible

Now that I've brought the Camaro into this comparison, I also have to talk about the its main rival, the iconic Ford Mustang. Redesigned in 2013, the Mustang also made huge steps toward the sports car market by gaining a more modern design and, for the very first time, an independent rear suspension. Also turned into a global vehicle available on pretty much all continents, the Mustang can also give the A5, 4 Series, and C-Class Coupe a run for their money in Europe. The sixth-gen pony was most recently updated for the 2018 model year, when Ford revised the body word and added new technology insde the cockpit. Previously available with a base V-6 engine, the Mustang is now a two-engine model, featuring a turbocharged four-cylinder and a naturally aspirated V-8. The new output figures aren't yet available, but the revised 2.3-liter EcoBoost is expected to deliver more than the current 310 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Also, look for the 5.0-liter "Coyote" V-8 to send more than 435 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of twist to the rear wheels. Just like the Camaro, the Mustang doesn't have all-wheel-drive, but its nowhere near as expensive as the German convertibles. Specifically, pricing should start from around $36,000 for the EcoBoost model and about $43,000 for the V-8-powered GT.

Learn more about the Ford Mustang Convertible here.

Conclusion

Launched in 2007, the previous-generation A5 was already long in the tooth when BMW and Mercedes-Benz introduced the latest 4 Series and C-Class. The German branded struggled to keep sales afloat since 2013 and the last couple of years can be described as a big stretch for the nameplate. Granted, the new A5 isn't a significant departure in terms of styling, but improvements are dramatic when it comes to interior design, drivetrains, and technology. The new A5 Convertible may be a bit late to the party, but it should help Audi get back on track in this tough niche.

Updated History

Updated 07/18/2016: While the coupe version was already unveiled, the A5 Convertible is still in its testing phase. Our spy photographers caught it during some hot weather testing in Spain.

Updated 06/13/2016: While waiting for Audi to also launched the A5 Cabriolet, we decided to create a rendering to help you make an idea on how the convertible version of the new A5 will look like. Let us know what do you think about it in the comments section bellow.

Updated 06/09/2016: Now that Audi unveiled the A5 Coupe, we decided its time to speculate a little on the upcoming convertible version. Continue reading to see what it will bring new and what it will have similar to the coupe.

Updated 02/01/2016: Our spy photographers caught the upcoming A5 Convertible out for a new testing session, on the public roads of Germany. Production for the 2017 Audi A5 convertible will begin in late 2016 or early 2017.

Spy Shots

July 18, 2016 - Audi A5 Convertible caught testing in Spain


February 2, 2016 - Audi A5 Convertible caught testing on public roads in Germany


November 2, 2015 - Audi A5 Convertible caught on the German roads


Rendering