The Audi A5 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI V6 quattro S tronic, produced between November 2008 and 2011, represents a compelling blend of performance and open-air luxury within the 8F7 generation A5 Cabriolet range. Positioned as a premium offering, this variant catered to drivers seeking a more spirited driving experience than the entry-level four-cylinder models, while providing a more refined and technologically advanced alternative to the diesel-powered options. It was a key component of Audi’s strategy to offer a diverse A5 Cabriolet lineup, appealing to a broad spectrum of customer preferences within the luxury compact convertible segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (8F7) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 FSI V6 (265 Hp) quattro S tronic |
| Start of production | November, 2008 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 219 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 148.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 184.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 330 Nm @ 3000-5000 rpm (243.4 lb.-ft. @ 3000-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CALA |
| Engine displacement | 3197 cm3 (195.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 85.5 mm (3.37 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1785 kg (3935.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2285 kg (5037.56 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 | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 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 permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| 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
At the heart of the A5 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI quattro lies the CALA engine, a 3.2-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI – Fuel Stratified Injection) to deliver precise fuel metering, enhancing both power and efficiency. The engine produces 265 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 243 lb-ft of torque between 3,000 and 5,000 rpm. The dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder contribute to its responsive nature. Paired with this engine is Audi’s seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. This transmission offers rapid, seamless gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.2 FSI V6 with the S tronic transmission delivers a noticeably more engaging driving experience compared to the base 1.8 TFSI or 2.0 TDI models. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.6 seconds, and the car feels confident at highway speeds. The S tronic transmission’s quick shifts and well-chosen gear ratios keep the engine in its optimal power band. While not as overtly sporty as the S5 Cabriolet, the 3.2 FSI offers a satisfying balance between performance and comfort. The quattro system provides a secure and planted feel, inspiring confidence in corners. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other A5 models, the S tronic prioritizes ease of use and smooth operation over outright driver involvement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.2 FSI quattro typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and parking sensors. Optional extras included navigation, advanced driver-assistance systems (such as adaptive cruise control), and upgraded interior trim packages. The A5 Cabriolet offered a range of customization options, allowing buyers to tailor the car to their individual preferences. The interior design was characterized by Audi’s typically high build quality and attention to detail, creating a refined and comfortable cabin environment.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear axles. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and handling, providing a composed ride even on less-than-perfect road surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the A5 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI for its refined engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. However, some noted that the fuel economy was relatively high compared to the four-cylinder and diesel alternatives. Compared to the 1.8 TFSI, the 3.2 FSI offered significantly more power and a more premium driving experience. Against the 2.0 TDI, it provided a smoother and more responsive engine, but at the cost of fuel efficiency. The 3.2 FSI positioned itself as a sweet spot for those prioritizing performance and refinement over outright economy.
Legacy
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI V6 quattro S tronic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the CALA engine generally considered robust. However, like all complex vehicles, it’s susceptible to age-related issues. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing chain inspection (though less frequent than some other engines), and monitoring of the S tronic transmission fluid levels. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, particularly those with a well-documented service history and low mileage. The combination of performance, luxury, and all-wheel-drive capability continues to make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a premium open-top experience.
