Audi S5 Cabriolet quattro 2dr Car Review - April 2012

This is probably the weakest area of the S5’s performance, with the steering being a particular problem which isn’t stable or as responsive as you might expect, and you can feel a shudder when cornering. There is also a lot of movement in the suspension which is unsettled even on smooth surfaces, but it does offer plenty of grip and traction even in poor weather conditions. The driving position is very good, with plenty of adjustment in the steering wheel and the seat, and visibility is good even when the roof is in place.

Engine performance from the 3.0 litre engine is excellent and will be an attractive feature for many people, with the acceleration from 0-62mph achieved in only 5.4 seconds. The engine has ample pace but is electronically limited to 155mph, but getting up to these speeds will be particularly noisy and can also involve a lot of buffeting if you have the roof down.

The S5 is certainly an attractive cabriolet which has all the hallmarks of a German design, with the narrow headlight clusters and smooth lines along the body being clean and unfussy. The chrome detailing around the windscreen and the grille adds a touch of class to the vehicle and the back end is tidy with the tail light cluster split over the body and the boot lid. Inside, the cabin is classy and stylish, although having some buttons below the gear lever may make it difficult to reach while driving.

The level of equipment included with the S5 is very good, with the key features of alloy wheels and leather seats both included as standard with the car. Climate control helps to keep the cabin comfortable when the fabric roof is up, and the CD stereo comes with an MP3 input for those who carry their music in a portable player.

The practicality of cabriolet cars is always a contentious issue, but the S5 is able to deliver four seats, although those who squeeze into the back of the car may find the space to be a little limited. The boot isn’t huge either, but is larger than many rivals who have had to compromise to include a metal roof. Audi hasn’t had a great reputation for reliability over recent years, but the S5 has received average reviews for its reliability from drivers.

There is plenty of safety equipment included with the car, with airbags to protect those in the front of the car in an accident. There is also a sensor system that will see metal bars pop up from behind the rear seats to provide extra protection if it senses that the car may roll over. It comes supplied with stability control too.

With a list price of £45,895 many people may find that it is a lot to pay for such a cabriolet. In reality, the top A5 cabriolet models are cheaper and less expensive to run while not being too far behind in terms of performance.

The running costs of the S5 are also quite hefty, with the 3.0 litre engine opting for performance over efficiency, delivering an average 32mpg. The high insurance group means that premiums are also going to be very high, but one positive aspect is that its desirability means it should hold its value well. The S5 is supplied with a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty, and also comes with a three year subscription to the RAC roadside breakdown service.