The Audi A5 Cabriolet, specifically the 8F7 facelift model produced from 2011-2017, represented Audi’s entry into the premium mid-size convertible market. The 2.0 TFSI variant with 220 horsepower and the Tiptronic automatic transmission, introduced in June 2013, occupied a significant position within the A5 Cabriolet lineup, offering a balance between performance, comfort, and technology. This model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a sophisticated open-top experience without sacrificing the refinement associated with the Audi brand. It was positioned as a step up from the base 1.8 TFSI models, offering more power and the added capability of Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system, while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance S5 Cabriolet.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (8F7, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI (220 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | June, 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 11.2-11.8 l/100 km (21 – 19.9 US mpg, 25.2 – 23.9 UK mpg, 8.9 – 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 8.1-8.4 l/100 km (29 – 28 US mpg, 34.9 – 33.6 UK mpg, 12.3 – 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 9.8-10.2 l/100 km (24 – 23.1 US mpg, 28.8 – 27.7 UK mpg, 10.2 – 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | ULEV II |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 119.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 190.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 220 Hp @ 4450-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 110.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-4300 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CAED, CPMB |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 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) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1835 kg (4045.48 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 320 l (11.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 750 l (26.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4626 mm (182.13 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 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.) |
| Front overhang | 861 mm (33.9 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1014 mm (39.92 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| 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 | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 300 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/40 R18; 255/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19; 9J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 8F7, facelifted in 2011, built upon the success of the original A5 introduced in 2007. This iteration brought styling refinements, updated technology, and improved efficiency. The 2.0 TFSI 220 hp quattro Tiptronic model, launched in 2013, was a key component of the A5 Cabriolet range. It leveraged the benefits of Audi’s direct-injection turbocharged engine technology and the security of the quattro all-wheel-drive system, packaged within a luxurious and well-appointed convertible body style. This variant aimed to provide a compelling alternative to rivals like the BMW 3 Series Convertible and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic lies the EA888 engine, specifically the CAED or CPMB code variants. This 1984cc (121.07 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver 220 horsepower at 4450-6000 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-4300 rpm. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The turbocharger provides a significant boost in power and torque compared to naturally aspirated engines, while direct injection ensures precise fuel delivery for optimal combustion efficiency.
The “Tiptronic” transmission is an 8-speed automatic gearbox developed by ZF. It offers both fully automatic operation and the ability for the driver to manually select gears via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness, contributing to a refined driving experience. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The system utilizes a multi-plate clutch to vary the torque split, prioritizing rear-wheel drive for a more engaging driving feel when appropriate.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TFSI 220 hp quattro Tiptronic A5 Cabriolet delivers a balanced driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 6.6 seconds, and the electronically limited top speed is 130.49 mph (210 km/h). While not as overtly sporty as the S5 Cabriolet, the 2.0 TFSI provides ample power for comfortable cruising and spirited driving. The Tiptronic transmission offers quick and smooth gear changes, and the quattro system provides excellent grip and stability. Compared to the 1.8 TFSI models, the 2.0 TFSI offers noticeably more power and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and more confident overtaking. However, it doesn’t quite match the performance of the higher-output engines found in the S5. The gear ratios are tuned for a blend of performance and fuel efficiency, with taller gears for highway cruising and shorter gears for quicker acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a central display screen. Standard safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included features like navigation, a premium sound system (Bang & Olufsen), heated seats, and advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered options for upgraded interior materials, exterior styling enhancements, and additional technology features.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet features a sophisticated chassis designed to provide a comfortable and controlled ride. The front suspension utilizes a coil spring and independent multi-link setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs an independent trapezoidal lever design, also with a transverse stabilizer bar. This configuration minimizes body roll and provides precise handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front (320mm) and solid discs at the rear (300mm), coupled with ABS and electronic stability control. The quattro all-wheel-drive system further enhances braking performance by distributing braking force optimally between the wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, refined interior, comfortable ride, and capable performance. The combination of the turbocharged engine, automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive was seen as a strong selling point. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a vehicle in this class, with combined figures ranging from 24-23.1 US mpg. Compared to the 1.8 TFSI models, the 2.0 TFSI offered a noticeable performance upgrade, justifying the higher price. However, some critics noted that the 2.0 TFSI didn’t quite offer the same level of excitement as the S5 Cabriolet. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and electrical components.
Legacy
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The EA888 engine is known for its durability, and the Tiptronic transmission is generally robust. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial for long-term reliability. Today, these vehicles represent a good value for buyers seeking a stylish and well-equipped convertible with the added security of all-wheel drive. The A5 Cabriolet continues to be a popular choice among enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of luxury, performance, and practicality.
