The Audi A5 Cabriolet 35 TDI (163 hp) S tronic, produced from December 2019 through 2024, represents a compelling entry point into Audi’s premium open-top experience. This variant, part of the F5 generation A5 Cabriolet (which received a facelift in 2019), was positioned as a fuel-efficient and comfortable option within the A5 lineup, appealing to buyers prioritizing economy and relaxed cruising over outright performance. It slots below the more powerful 40 TDI and 45 TFSI models, offering a balance between cost and features. The A5 Cabriolet itself is built on the Volkswagen Group’s MLB platform (specifically the AHX variant), shared with models like the Audi A4, and the Q5.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (F5, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 35 TDI (163 Hp) S tronic |
| Start of production | December, 2019 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.6-5.1 l/100 km (51.1 – 46.1 US mpg, 61.4 – 55.4 UK mpg, 21.7 – 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7-4.2 l/100 km (63.6 – 56 US mpg, 76.3 – 67.3 UK mpg, 27 – 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.0-4.5 l/100 km (58.8 – 52.3 US mpg, 70.6 – 62.8 UK mpg, 25 – 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 106-118 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 222 km/h (137.94 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 96.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 225.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 3250-4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DEZE |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.2 l (12.89 US qt | 10.73 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1685 kg (3714.79 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2170 kg (4784.03 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank capacity | 12 l (3.17 US gal | 2.64 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load (brakes 8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (brakes 12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (no brakes) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4697 mm (184.92 in.) |
| Width | 1846 mm (72.68 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Height | 1384 mm (54.49 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2764 mm (108.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Rear track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Front overhang | 898 mm (35.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1035 mm (40.75 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | 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
The A5 Cabriolet 35 TDI utilizes the Volkswagen Group’s DEZE engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of the EA288 family, known for its robust construction and efficiency. The DEZE features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque, and employs a common rail direct fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery. The engine produces 163 horsepower at 3250-4200 rpm and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque between 1500-2750 rpm. This torque band provides good low-end responsiveness, suitable for everyday driving. The engine also incorporates a particulate filter to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6 standards. The S tronic transmission is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) known for its quick and smooth shifts. It offers both automatic and manual shift modes, providing drivers with control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 hp diesel engine paired with the 7-speed S tronic transmission delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 8.6 seconds, and top speed is limited to 137.94 mph. While not a sports car, the 35 TDI offers sufficient power for highway cruising and overtaking. The S tronic transmission contributes to smooth gear changes, enhancing the overall driving experience. Compared to the more powerful 45 TFSI variant, the 35 TDI prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, resulting in lower engine speeds at highway speeds. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides good traction in most conditions, but can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A5 Cabriolet 35 TDI typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features. These included Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a 7-inch display, three-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and front sport seats. Standard safety features included Audi pre sense basic, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a larger MMI touch display, Audi virtual cockpit, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered options for upgraded interior materials, exterior styling packages, and additional driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet features an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front suspension utilizes coil springs and stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension incorporates a spring suspension with a stabilizer bar. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, ensuring safe and controlled braking in various conditions. The steering system is an electric power steering rack and pinion, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A5 Cabriolet 35 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. It was seen as a practical and stylish option for buyers seeking an open-top experience without sacrificing economy. Compared to the 40 TDI and 45 TFSI variants, the 35 TDI offered a lower price point, making it more accessible to a wider range of buyers. However, some critics noted that the 163 hp engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Fuel economy figures were consistently praised, with combined fuel consumption ranging from 4.0 to 4.5 l/100 km.
Legacy
The DEZE engine, found in the A5 Cabriolet 35 TDI, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines have faced increased scrutiny in recent years, the EA288 family has a generally good reputation for longevity. The S tronic transmission is also known for its reliability, provided it is properly maintained. In the used car market, the A5 Cabriolet 35 TDI represents a good value proposition, offering a premium open-top experience at a relatively affordable price. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial to ensure the long-term reliability of this powertrain.
