The Audi A5 Cabriolet, specifically the 8F7 facelift model produced from 2015 to 2016, represents a compelling blend of open-air motoring and Audi’s renowned engineering. This variant, equipped with the 2.0 TFSI engine producing 230 horsepower and paired with the quattro all-wheel-drive system and a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, occupied a sweet spot in the A5 Cabriolet lineup, offering a significant step up in performance from the base models while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance S5 variant. It was positioned as a premium, sporty convertible aimed at buyers seeking a refined driving experience with all-weather capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (8F7, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI (230 Hp) quattro S tronic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6-9.3 l/100 km (27.4 – 25.3 US mpg, 32.8 – 30.4 UK mpg, 11.6 – 10.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9-6.6 l/100 km (39.9 – 35.6 US mpg, 47.9 – 42.8 UK mpg, 16.9 – 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9-7.6 l/100 km (34.1 – 30.9 US mpg, 40.9 – 37.2 UK mpg, 14.5 – 13.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 160-175 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 241 km/h (149.75 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 132.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 230 Hp @ 4700-6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 115.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-4600 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CNCE |
| 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 and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2235 kg (4927.33 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 | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| 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) | 0.31 |
| 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, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever, Transverse 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; 245/40 R18; 255/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19; 9J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2015-2016 Audi A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic represents the culmination of the first-generation A5 (8F) series, benefitting from the facelift introduced in 2011. This update brought revised styling, improved efficiency, and updated technology. Built on the Audi’s versatile B8 platform (internally designated 8F7 for the Cabriolet), the A5 Cabriolet aimed to deliver a premium open-top experience. The 2.0 TFSI engine, a mainstay of the Audi lineup, provided a balance of performance and fuel economy, while the quattro all-wheel-drive system ensured confident handling in various conditions. The S tronic dual-clutch transmission offered quick and smooth gear changes, enhancing the driving experience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this A5 Cabriolet lies the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, specifically the CNCE variant. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) combined with multi-point injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, boosts power output to 230 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. The S tronic 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is a key component, offering incredibly fast shifts and contributing to the car’s overall efficiency. This transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and the quattro system’s integration necessitate a more complex drivetrain layout compared to front-wheel-drive counterparts.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic A5 Cabriolet delivers a refined and engaging driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the S5, it provides ample power for comfortable cruising and spirited driving. The S tronic transmission ensures quick acceleration, with the car reaching 60 mph in approximately 6.8 seconds. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in wet or slippery conditions. The gear ratios are well-tuned for both everyday driving and highway passing maneuvers. Compared to the 1.8 TFSI variants, the 2.0 TFSI offers a noticeable increase in power and torque, resulting in more responsive acceleration. The automatic transmission, while convenient, doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual gearbox, but its speed and smoothness are undeniable advantages.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and an Audi Concert audio system. Optional extras were plentiful, including navigation, premium sound systems (Bang & Olufsen), heated seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together. The interior design was typically understated and elegant, reflecting Audi’s commitment to quality and refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet’s chassis is based on the Audi B8 platform, featuring a multi-link front suspension and an independent trapezoidal-link rear suspension. Both ends are equipped with transverse stabilizers to reduce body roll. The 2.0 TFSI model typically came with ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension tuning prioritized comfort and stability, providing a smooth ride without sacrificing handling precision. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, refined interior, and engaging driving experience. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a performance-oriented convertible, averaging around 34 mpg combined. Compared to the 1.8 TFSI models, the 2.0 TFSI offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying the higher price tag for many buyers. The S tronic transmission was also lauded for its smoothness and speed. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors.
Legacy
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic has proven to be a relatively reliable and desirable used car. The EA888 engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is crucial. The S tronic transmission, while sophisticated, can be expensive to repair if issues arise. Today, these cars offer a compelling combination of style, performance, and practicality at a reasonable price point. They remain popular among enthusiasts seeking a premium open-top experience with the added security of all-wheel drive. The 8F generation A5 Cabriolet laid the groundwork for the subsequent A5 models, solidifying Audi’s position as a leader in the premium convertible segment.
