The Audi A5 is the German automaker’s first full-size coupe since the Audi 100, slotted somewhere between the A4 and A6 sedans. Considerably larger than the TT coupe, the A5 is marketed as a true four-seater. For the latest model year, the A5 comes with just one engine option: a 211 horsepower 2.0-liter DOHC engine with FSI direct-injection and a turbocharger, ditching the previous generations premium 265 hp 3.2-liter V6 with FSI direct-injection.
2011 Audi A5 Images
If you decide that the Audi A5 convertible is right for you, Audi offers a slightly different formula in the same attractive package. The A5 Cabriolet comes standard with front-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission. However, if you’re seeking the stability of Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive, you can add it to the A5 Cabriolet, along with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
No Audi A5 is short of power. Even the cheapest petrol model – with a 178bhp 2.0-litre engine – gives punchy performance, but you can also have a 208bhp 2.0-litre turbo, a 261bhp 3.2 V6 and a 349bhp 4.2-litre. Topping the range will be the RS5, which hits 60mph in just 4.5 seconds. The cheapest diesel is a flexible 168bhp 2.0-litre, while 187bhp 2.7 and 237bhp 3.0-litre units complete the line-up. You can also choose from manual and automatic transmissions, and front- or four-wheel drive.
The only thing we can think of is to de-top it. The best way to improve on the sensual 2011 Audi A5 Coupe is to turn it into an open-air Cabriolet, in our opinion. And given the choice, the convertible is the way we’d go when spending more than $40,000 on a luxury two-door from Audi.
