Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (8F7) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 TFSI (160 Hp) Multitronic |
| Start of production | September, 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 174 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 152 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 4500-6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CDHB |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.1 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1645 kg (3626.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2145 kg (4728.92 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 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) | 0.30 |
| 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 | automatic transmission Multitronic |
| 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 | 225/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 8F7, produced from 2009 to 2011, marked Audi’s entry into the premium mid-size convertible market. The 1.8 TFSI variant, equipped with the Multitronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), served as a more accessible and fuel-efficient option within the A5 Cabriolet range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it bridged the gap between the base 1.8 TFSI manual and the more powerful 2.0 TFSI and 3.2 FSI models. This variant aimed to provide a balance of performance, comfort, and affordability for buyers seeking an open-top luxury experience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A5 Cabriolet 1.8 TFSI Multitronic is the CDHB engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The engine’s architecture features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The Multitronic transmission is a continuously variable transmission (CVT) offering smooth, stepless gear changes. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the Multitronic uses a chain-driven system to provide an infinite number of ratios within its range, optimizing engine efficiency and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.8 TFSI engine, coupled with the Multitronic transmission, resulted in a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 9 seconds, and top speed was limited to 130 mph. While not as brisk as the higher-powered variants, the 1.8 TFSI offered sufficient power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The Multitronic transmission contributed to smooth acceleration and minimized shift shock. However, some drivers found the transmission lacked the engaging feel of a traditional manual gearbox. The CVT’s programming prioritized fuel efficiency, sometimes resulting in a slight delay in response during aggressive acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 TFSI Multitronic Cabriolet typically came standard with features such as leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and an Audi Concert audio system. Optional extras included features like navigation system, heated front seats, parking sensors, and a wind deflector to reduce turbulence in the cabin when the top was down. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that added cosmetic enhancements and additional convenience features. The interior design was characterized by Audi’s signature clean lines and high-quality materials, creating a premium and comfortable cabin environment.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet 8F7 featured a fully independent suspension system, with a multi-link setup at both the front and rear axles. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front suspension incorporated stabilizer bars to reduce body roll during cornering. 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 system was a rack-and-pinion type with electric power assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 1.8 TFSI Multitronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its larger counterparts. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI variant, the 1.8 TFSI offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. The Multitronic transmission was appreciated for its smoothness but criticized by some for its lack of driver engagement. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 31.4 US mpg, making it a more economical choice than the higher-powered models.
Legacy
The 1.8 TFSI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant. The Multitronic transmission, however, has a more mixed reputation. While generally smooth, it can be prone to issues if not properly maintained, particularly regarding fluid changes. Today, the A5 Cabriolet 1.8 TFSI Multitronic represents an affordable entry point into the Audi convertible market. Well-maintained examples continue to offer a stylish and comfortable open-top driving experience. Regular maintenance, especially concerning the Multitronic transmission, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability.
