Audi enthusiasts rejoice, the second-generation 2018 Audi A5 and S5 Cabriolet have arrived.
The new A5 and S5 Cabriolet models feature a new look with a sharp design mixed with classic sports coupe proportions.
In a win for the engineering department, a 40 per cent increase in torsional rigidity has also been complemented by a 25kg weight loss over the previous A5 Cabriolet model.
The A5 Cabriolet also features a lightweight soft-top, capable of opening in 15 seconds and closing in 18, operates at speeds not exceeding 50 km/h. To allow for easier conversation with the wind roaring through one's hair, microphones have been integrated into the seatbelt.
Safety features found on the A5 Cabriolet include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), exit warning, side assist, parking system plus with rear view camera and rear cross traffic alert.
Other standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, Audi virtual cockpit, MMI Navigation plus (with 10GB media storage and 2x SDHC slots), Audi connect with Audi smartphone interface (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), DAB+ digital radio, convenience key and the 180w Audi sound system. Quattro models include additional standard features with option packages also catering to specific requirements.
Under the bonnet three drivetrain options can be found. The smallest, but by no means least, is a 2.0 TFSI S tronic driving the front wheels only which is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission which replaces the multitronic CVT arrangement. Capable of 140kW of power and 320Nm of torque, this represents a significant increase in performance for the entry-level option.
Moving up to the 2.0 TFSI engine bring an increase to 185kW/370Nm output. This is matched to a quattro all-wheel drive arrangement with seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission as standard.
The S5 Cabriolet ups the ante with a brand new 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine. It offers 260kW of power and 500Nm of torque. The engine itself is also 14kg lighter than the previous powerplant. This is mated with a fast-shifting eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. An optional sport differential on the rear axle is also available.
Paul Sansom, Managing Director of Audi Australia said of the S5 Cabriolet: "The addition of the S5 Cabriolet goes one step further, adding potent engine sound and performance, plus a visually arresting S model design, to the exceptional feeling of open-top motoring. Even as the engine starts, this vehicle comes alive, connecting the driver and road in one seamless experience of outdoor freedom."
Both the A5 and S5 models have adopted the new five-link front and rear suspension which complements the quattro system. Optional adaptive dampers on the A5, which are standard on the S5, offer further adjustments to the ride.
The all-new Audi A5 and S5 Cabriolet range is on-sale now.
2018 Audi A5 and S5 Cabriolet Pricing (excludes on-road costs):
A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI S tronic - $83,400
A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic - $95,000
S5 Cabriolet 3.0 TFSI quattro tiptronic - $119,111
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