The Audi A5 Cabriolet (8F7) 2.7 TDI V6, produced from November 2008 to 2011, represented a sophisticated blend of open-air motoring and diesel efficiency within the Audi lineup. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the A5 Cabriolet range, it slotted between the more economical 2.0 TDI models and the performance-oriented 3.0 TDI variants. This model capitalized on the growing demand for premium convertibles while offering the fuel economy benefits associated with a modern diesel engine. It was built on the Audi B8 platform, shared with the A4, and aimed at buyers seeking a stylish and comfortable grand tourer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (8F7) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 TDI V6 (190 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2008 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 108 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 227.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 3500-4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1400-3250 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CGKA |
| Engine displacement | 2698 cm3 (164.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.1 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1760 kg (3880.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2260 kg (4982.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 320 l (11.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 750 l (26.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4625 mm (182.09 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Height | 1383 mm (54.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2751 mm (108.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A5 Cabriolet 2.7 TDI was the CGKA engine, a 2.7-liter V6 diesel. This engine was a member of Audi’s well-regarded family of V6 TDI powerplants. It featured a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine employed a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The valvetrain utilized a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and overall performance. The engine’s robust construction and advanced technologies allowed it to produce 190 horsepower and a substantial 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque, readily available from as low as 1400 rpm. This broad torque curve provided strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine was longitudinally mounted, driving the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7 TDI-equipped A5 Cabriolet offered a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine’s ample torque provided brisk acceleration, with 0-60 mph times around 8.2 seconds. The six-speed manual transmission allowed for precise control, although the gear ratios were tuned more for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising than outright performance. Compared to the more powerful 3.0 TDI, the 2.7 TDI felt less urgent, but it offered a more accessible and economical driving experience. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, and the well-tuned suspension absorbed bumps effectively, contributing to a comfortable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.7 TDI Cabriolet typically came well-equipped, reflecting Audi’s premium positioning. Standard features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and an Audi Concert audio system. Optional extras included navigation, upgraded sound systems (Bang & Olufsen), sport seats, and various driver assistance systems. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, the 2.7 TDI sat in the middle of the range, offering a good balance of features and price. Interior materials were of high quality, and the dashboard layout was clean and functional.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet’s chassis was based on the Audi B8 platform, known for its rigidity and balanced handling. The front suspension utilized an independent multi-link setup, while the rear featured an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for enhanced safety. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 2.7 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and fuel-efficient engine. Compared to the 2.0 TDI, the 2.7 TDI offered significantly more power and refinement. However, it was more expensive and slightly less fuel-efficient. Against the 3.0 TDI, it offered a more affordable entry point into the A5 Cabriolet range, albeit with less performance. The combination of a diesel engine and a convertible body style appealed to buyers seeking a practical and stylish grand tourer.
Legacy
The CGKA 2.7 TDI engine, when properly maintained, has proven to be a relatively reliable powerplant. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), particularly on vehicles primarily used for short journeys. In the used car market, the A5 Cabriolet 2.7 TDI represents a good value proposition, offering a premium convertible experience at a reasonable price. Its blend of style, comfort, and fuel efficiency continues to appeal to buyers seeking a sophisticated open-air vehicle.
