Wow, Audi's acoustic roof really makes this car quiet on the highway. It may be a bit odd, but I think the highlight of this convertible is the top. It's every bit as quiet as a folding hardtop convertible and you don't have to give up the entire trunk to retract the top. Aside from the potential security issues a soft top entails, why in the world would anyone choose an A5 coupe over the cabrio? I'd opt for the coupe if I were thinking of an S5, though.
Since it's possible to buy an A5 cabriolet with Quattro and the six-speed Tiptronic transmission, the cabrio even makes sense as a daily driver in the winter. The price premium for AWD and a transmission with real gears is a mere $2100 when compared with a similarly equipped front-wheel-drive model with a CVT. Either way you get the excellent 2.0 FSI engine, which is well matched to the A5's personality.
Our test car is almost completely loaded and commands $56,525 but a smartly optioned Premium trim level car will be plenty luxurious for $45,550, if you can live without navigation and Bang & Olufsen sound. At $45,550 the A5 cabriolet makes a lot of sense for those who place a premium on looks and luxury over all-out performance, though the A5 doesn't disappoint in the driving department.
Phil Floraday, Senior Online Editor
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