Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (8F7, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 (245 Hp) quattro S tronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 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) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 127.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 260.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 4000-4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1400-3250 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1400-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CDUC, CKVB, CKVC |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.4 mm (3.6 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 | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2345 kg (5169.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 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%) | 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 | 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 | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
The Audi A5 Cabriolet, specifically the 8F7 facelift model produced from 2011 to 2015, represented a compelling blend of open-air motoring and sophisticated engineering. Within the A5 Cabriolet range, the 3.0 TDI V6 variant, equipped with the quattro all-wheel drive system and a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, occupied a premium position. This model offered a significant step up in performance and refinement compared to the lower-powered four-cylinder options, targeting buyers who desired a luxurious and capable grand tourer. It served as a direct competitor to other premium drop-top vehicles like the BMW 3 Series Convertible and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A5 Cabriolet is the 3.0-liter TDI V6 engine, identified by engine codes CDUC, CKVB, or CKVC. This engine is a common-rail direct injection diesel, utilizing piezo injectors for precise fuel delivery. The engine features a single turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The V6 configuration provides inherent smoothness and balance, contributing to a refined driving experience. The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission offers rapid and seamless gear changes, enhancing both acceleration and fuel economy. This transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, providing excellent traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 245 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 3.0 TDI engine provide brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 6 seconds, making it a genuinely quick convertible. The S tronic transmission contributes to this performance, providing near-instantaneous shifts. Compared to the base 1.8 TFSI models, the TDI offers significantly more torque, resulting in stronger mid-range acceleration and effortless cruising. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-output S5 Cabriolet, the 3.0 TDI strikes a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The gear ratios are tuned for both acceleration and highway cruising, providing a comfortable and relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 TDI quattro S tronic typically came well-equipped. Standard features included leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a color display. Optional extras included navigation, a premium sound system (Bang & Olufsen), heated and ventilated front seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Interior trim options ranged from brushed aluminum to wood veneers, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their taste.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet’s chassis is based on the Audi A4 platform, featuring a sophisticated independent suspension system. The front suspension utilizes a multi-link setup, while the rear employs a trapezoidal link design. This configuration provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic stability control. The weight distribution is well-balanced, contributing to the car’s neutral handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0 TDI quattro S tronic A5 Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with combined figures around 40 mpg. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI models, the TDI offered superior torque and a more relaxed driving experience, albeit at a higher price point. Reliability was generally good, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues could occur with infrequent long-distance driving.
Legacy
The 3.0 TDI engine has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant when properly maintained. The S tronic transmission, while complex, has also demonstrated good longevity. On the used car market, these A5 Cabriolets hold their value reasonably well, particularly those with a full service history and low mileage. The combination of performance, luxury, and fuel efficiency continues to make this variant a desirable choice for buyers seeking a premium open-top experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential costs associated with maintaining a diesel vehicle, including DPF maintenance and AdBlue refills.
