The 2010 Audi S5 Cabriolet is by far the quietest softtop convertible I have ever driven. There was no howling wind noise or cold air coming through the tight seams; the S5 Cabriolet really drove like a fixed-roof vehicle. Surprisingly, the driver's rearward visibility isn't hindered by the top; the car has slightly larger blind spots at the C-pillars, but the lack of a B-pillar more than makes up for it. Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to lower the top while driving due to the sub-freezing temperatures outside, but unlike other convertibles on the market, the Audi S5 Cabriolet is still a stylish ride regardless of where the top is positioned, especially in this color scheme, with brilliant red paint and a black top.
The 7-speed dual-clutch S-tronic transmission is very refined and super smooth, although the S5 felt stubborn to go when I had the steering wheel locked to one side and then pressed the gas pedal. The transmission shuttered and the steering wheel shook as the Quattro all-wheel-drive tried to pull the car out of the tight situation.
Our test unit was not equipped with a sports rear differential; but even without it, it was still a blast to drive the Audi S5 sideways down snow-covered country roads. The car is simply amazing.
Mike Ofiara, Road Test Coordinator
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