Road Test

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Audi A5 3.0 TDI Quattro S Line

Test date 01 August 2009 Price as tested £41,265

For Classy image, effortless performance, brilliant cabin, good practicality

AgainstOverly firm ride, hefty kerb weight, too expensive, shallow boot

Another sodden summer means this is hardly the most propitious time to be bringing a new rag-top to market. But as Audi continues its seemingly relentless expansion into new areas, it’s refreshing to find at least one new model from the brand that is entirely predictable.

The A5 Cabriolet is an open-top version of the existing A5 coupé and, despite its numerically enhanced moniker, is a direct replacement for the previous A4 Cabriolet. Which means it’s got a tough act to follow.

The A4 Cabriolet was a sales success throughout its long life, and its appeal was reflected in its rock-solid residual values.

It’s therefore no surprise that Audi has kept the fundamentals unchanged, with the A5 using a folding fabric hood instead of one of the increasingly fashionable retractable hard-tops.

The big question is whether it will be good enough to carry on where its handsome predecessor left off.

We’re testing it with a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel under the bonnet, mated to a seven-speed DSG automatic and Audi’s quattro four-wheel drive.