2016 Audi S5 Cabriolet 3.0L TFSI quattro 8AT AWD (354 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Audi introduced the second generation of the A5 lineup in 2016 and waited until 2017 to reveal the S5 lineup, which included the five-door (Sportback), the coupe, and the convertible versions.

Competing against the better-known M3/M4 lineup wasn’t easy for Audi, but at least it kept the model’s nameplate and used the same S letter for the performance versions of the A5. Furthermore, the addition of the open-top version, which could really carry four adults on board, was considered a massive advantage by the four-ringed automaker. For the second generation of the nameplate, it used the same platform as the four-door/station-wagon sibling, the A4. As a result, it benefited from many advanced systems that helped customers decide if the car was worth the trouble of spending a steep price on it. And it was worth it. Starting with 2017, all versions of the S5 shared the same engine, while before that, the two-door versions had a turbocharged V6, while a naturally-aspirated V8 powered the four and five-door versions.

Even if the car’s platform remained the same, Audi considered and convinced its customers that it was an entirely new generation in the same way that it did with the A4 B8 and B9, respectively. Nevertheless, the 2017 S5 Cabriolet looked slightly different than its predecessor. It featured a bolder front fascia with an emphasis on the single-frame grille that sported chromed vertical slats. Moreover, the U.S. models didn’t have the horizontal bar that supported the license plate. In addition, the sharp-looking headlights sported LED daytime running lights inside them, while the lower side scoops from the apron housed the fog lamps. Furthermore, the hood showed new creases on it and was made out of aluminum to help with the weight distribution. From its profile, the Cabriolet revealed its rag-top roof that could disappear in 15 seconds at the touch of a button, at speeds of up to 31 MPH (50 kph). Like any other S product, the car boasted silver door mirror caps and A-pillars. From behind, the four oval exhausts flanked the rear diffuser, and they were not fake.

The cabin boasted a high level of luxury with leather-wrapped seats and door cards. Moreover, Audi offered the option for tall front seatbacks with integrated headrests embroidered with the S5 logo. In front of the driver, Audi installed a 12.3” digital instrument cluster known as the Audi virtual cockpit, which could show not just the speedometer and tachometer but also data from the infotainment system, including the map for the navigation unit. Furthermore, an 8.3” touchscreen for the infotainment system sat atop the center stack in a free-floating position. In the back, the automaker installed a bench for two passengers, separated by a center console with two cup holders.

Under the skin, the S5 Cabriolet featured a twin-scroll turbocharged V6 that sent 349 HP (353 PS) in all corners via an eight-speed automatic (torque-converter) gearbox. The all-wheel-drive system sent up to 40% of the torque to the front axle and 60% to the rear one to create an RWD-biased feeling for the driver, even though the mass distribution was not exactly ideal.