The New Audi Cabriolet

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An enjoyable and sporty driving experience, superior and complex technology, classic yet exciting styling and a level of luxury that even satisfies the demands made in the luxury class: Audi is presenting the new generation of a car that has become a classic – the Audi Cabriolet.

The advent of a new model generation is evident at first glance: the open-top four-seater now has the single-frame grille that typifies the brand. The newly-styled rear lights add a further visual touch. The car’s taut styling, clear surfaces and tension-packed shoulder line extending along the entire body are characteristic features of the Cabriolet.

The car’s technology lives up to the promise made by its new styling.

The Audi Cabriolet is being launched in Australia with two engines. FSI and turbo technology represent the most advanced state of the art for petrol engines. The sporty yet comfortable dynamic suspension converts the power delivered by these units into sheer driving pleasure – on every bend, on every mile of the journey.

Innovative and highly sophisticated technologies are an integral part of practically all vehicle areas and components: the optional xenon plus headlights with daytime running lights and dynamic adaptive light technology are proof of this, as are the continuously variable multitronic transmission, which is still unique.

The quality of materials and workmanship in the interior are of a standard that need not fear comparison with the luxury class. The architecture of the driver’s area, especially the cockpit – a perfect synthesis of design, ergonomics and function – is pioneering.

The design

The exterior

Unmistakeably Audi: the new generation of the Audi Cabriolet once again exhibits the brand’s typical design features. Their sports character is immediately visible at first glance.

The new styling elements are especially striking. They immediately draw attention at the front of the car: the striking single-frame grille and newly-styled clear-glass headlights with their curving, emotional line give the new Audi Cabriolet a completely new face.

The tubes of the main beam lights catch the eye behind the covers. They form the optical focus of the light units, framed to the side by the orange-coloured round indicator lights. Here, Audi’s design engineers have made technology visible.

The ratio of the large, clearly-shaped body surfaces to the flat, equally bold strip formed by the windows is significant. The Cabriolet’s utterly sporty but elegant design captivates the onlooker at very first glance. Clear lines, large surfaces and not a join too many: these are the characteristic features of the new Cabriolet’s timeless elegance. The high, rising shoulder line, which extends along the entire side of the body, additionally enhances the vehicle’s powerful overall impression.

Lights behind clear glass also catch the eye at the rear of the car, further emphasising the high-quality appearance of the Cabriolet. The prominent rear diffuser is flanked by two tailpipes.

The Audi Cabriolet always cuts a fine figure – with the top up or down. The electro-hydraulic hood is integrated harmoniously into the vehicle’s overall architecture, without the occupants having to accept any considerable compromises in terms of function.

The Audi Cabriolet remains a genuine four-seater which, thanks to its generously dimensioned luggage compartment, can accommodate four people and their luggage on holiday.

The interior

On a convertible with the top down, the interior is more an integral part of the exterior design than on any other type of vehicle. It is therefore important for the interior to take up the formal principles of the exterior design. Like the perfectly tailored suit. In the Audi Cabriolet, two apparent opposites are combined to produce an amazing synthesis of extraordinary ergonomics and subjective well-being.

The lines and surfaces of the new Cabriolet’s cockpit extend far into the region of the door panel and centre console, quite literally seeming to embrace the driver. This “wrap around” effect, to use the designers’ technical term, is accentuated additionally by the Cabriolet’s high, yet still gently rising waistline. This feature is something that many customers value very highly, in the main thanks to the remarkable sense of security that it imparts.

The architecture of the dashboard and centre console also provided the designers with scope for positioning a wide range of instruments and controls high up, ideally within the driver's field of vision. This is a basic ergonomic design that is adopted in every aircraft cockpit – and not without reason.

The lines of the driving area create a lively interplay of distinctly rounded, tangible shapes and graphically clear edges and notches. This area is thus divided up into clearly defined zones. These can be distinguished at a glance – a worthwhile ergonomic bonus that speeds up intuitive access to the individual information units and function groups. This process of locating involves both the visual and tactile senses: groups of controls and displays can also be identified by the materials used.

As far as the instruments are concerned, the most important information elements are located under a dome-shaped cover. The dial graphics of the large round instruments dispense with all fashionable gimmicks. Together with the standard central display, the white instrument lighting ensures optimum readability.

The most important controls for the occupants’ well-being are located in the centre console including deluxe automatic air conditioning, the audio system and the optional navigation system plus. The air conditioning controls on left and right are within easy reach of both driver and front passenger. There are, however, more benefits to the interior design than sheer practicality. The design of the self-contained function zones also creates a basis for a wide range of combination options for materials and colours. From the designers’ viewpoint this opens up entirely new horizons, and for Cabriolet drivers it provides scope for an unprecedented degree of customisation.

The customer’s tastes and imagination are almost unrestricted when it comes to the choice of equipment and trim. The fact that the finish and quality of all upholstery materials are of a standard you would expect to find on a luxury car is a fitting reflection of how Audi perceives itself.

Comfort and space on all seats

The micro-engaging mechanism for adjusting the front seats adds a new dimension to finding the ideal seated position which will benefit all occupants, not just the taller ones. Their fore/aft position can be adjusted virtually infinitely, in increments of three millimetres.

The seat surface, which is longer than the norm in this vehicle class, provides an outstanding thigh support. This applies in particular to the sports seats which, in addition to an adjustable lumbar support, come with a thigh support that can be adjusted horizontally to suit individual requirements.

The rear seats offer plenty of space, even for tall occupants – which is something that cannot be said of every four-seater convertible.

There is also more room than average for luggage in the Audi Cabriolet: with a capacity of 315 litres with the roof closed, the smooth-floored luggage compartment is also well equipped for large quantities of luggage. The standard load-through hatch with ski bag for four pairs of skis or two snowboards can also be used to transport bulky items.

The body

The body of the new Audi Cabriolet is noted for its very high torsional rigidity, reducing body twist to a minimum. This not only increases safety, but also boosts ride comfort. Additional measures increase rigidity still further: these include tube-reinforced side panels and an extremely rigid and robust windscreen frame. It goes without saying therefore that the new Audi Cabriolet meets the most stringent crash test requirements without any trouble.

Audi is one of the pioneers of lightweight design. On the Cabriolet, various materials such as steel and aluminium have been combined in such a way that it was possible to keep the vehicle weight down without reducing body rigidity and safety. This includes the expansive use of high-strength and very high-strength sheet panels. These special panels are used primarily in the front end of the new Cabriolet, in order to absorb impact energy as effectively as possible in a frontal crash.

As a protective cage, the occupant cell must also make sure that deformations and intrusions are minimised in a crash. Part of this task is performed by three large tailored blanks incorporated into the floor area. The wall thickness of each of these blanks varies. They are joined together by laser weld seams. The advantage of this special technology is that the generally large-format tailored blanks can be structured in such a way that high wall thicknesses are only used in areas subjected to particularly high loads. The result is a highly rigid structure which weighs less.

For the passenger cell, the tailored blanks form a stable, homogeneous bond with the forward and rearward structure via a bifurcated system of support members. Audi’s development engineers optimised profiles, wall thicknesses and material grades in extensive crash simulations.

In the rearward structure, the vehicle’s longitudinal member – which has to absorb much of the impact energy in a rear-end impact – is made using tailored blanks of varying wall thicknesses and materials.

The use of tailored blanks at specific points around the doors also helps to save weight. Energy-absorbing aluminium plates are used in the doors for impact protection.

The hood

The new Audi Cabriolet has a soft top which can now be opened electro-hydraulically at the press of a button in just 21 seconds – an improvement of more than five seconds on its predecessor. As well as aesthetic advantages, especially when the roof is closed, it also offers numerous practical benefits compared with other roof concepts. For example, Cabriolet drivers still have ample space to stow their luggage – even when the hood is open.

The Audi Cabriolet is a car for all seasons, whatever the weather: the soft top is noted for its outstanding acoustic and thermal insulation. The glass rear window is heated and therefore clears quickly in winter.

The electro-hydraulic hood opens fully automatically as a standard feature. It can be opened and closed at the press of a button. The fully automatic hood can be operated when driving up to a speed of 30 km/h. This is a particularly convenient feature, especially in the city where it is not always possible to stop suddenly, or just before parking the car, when approaching the garage, for example.

Audi is setting a new standard for soft tops with its optional acoustic hood. By using new fabrics with a higher material density as well as an additional padded layer around the C-posts, the noise level inside is reduced to a level that scarcely differs from that in the Audi A4 saloon.The new roof also improves the thermal insulation properties. This increases driving pleasure and comfort considerably when driving with the hood up.

Engines and transmissions

The new Audi Cabriolet is being launched with a choice of two engine versions, both of which are longitudinally-installed. The two highly modern petrol engines include an FSI petrol direct injection with 188 kW. The 3.2 V6 achieves high performance with a spontaneous response to every movement of the accelerator pedal and a peak-torque range at a high level. The 1.8 T, highly successful and proven in the previous generation model, develops 120 kW of seamless enjoyment.

The revolutionary Audi ‘multitronic’ transmission technology is available for both front-wheel-drive versions of the new Cabriolet.

The petrol engines

A new six-cylinder engine is being offered for the Cabriolet for the first time. The 3.2 V6 FSI has all the features of an ultramodern petrol engine: FSI petrol direct injection with demand-controlled fuel supply, four valves per cylinder, a variable intake manifold and continuous camshaft adjustment on both the inlet and exhaust side.

This V6 engine delivers its maximum output of 188 kW (255 bhp) at 6,500 rpm; its peak torque of 330 Nm is available at just 3,250 rpm. The Cabriolet 3.2 FSI quattro accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. Its top speed is governed to 250 km/h.

More than 90 percent of the engine’s peak torque is available in the wide range between 1,900 and 5,900 rpm – a unique characteristic for a naturally-aspirated V6. As far as the driver is concerned, this means a dynamic and forceful response to every movement of the accelerator pedal plus a broad usable speed range up to 7,200 rpm, hefty torque and excellent fuel economy: an average consumption of .7 litres of PULP per 100 km is the best evidence of this engine’s efficiency and the special abilities of FSI technology.

The 3.2-litre V6 has been designed with maximum space efficiency in mind. Measuring just 360 millimetres in length and 430 millimetres in width, this aluminium engine weighs a mere 169.5 kilograms – which means substantial benefits in terms of driving dynamics.

As on Audi’s new V-configuration engines in general, the cylinders are arranged at an angle of 90 degrees, and the distance between cylinders is 90 millimetres. The cylinder bore of 84.5 millimetres and cylinder stroke of 92.8 mm add up to an overall engine capacity of 3,123 cc.

The term “petrol direct injection” underlines the central feature of FSI technology: unlike an engine with indirect injection, fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber. An injection system with a newly developed single-piston high-pressure pump operating on demand ensures exactly the right supply of fuel, delivering precisely the volume required for building up operating pressure between 30 and 110 bar.

In the intake tract, also comprising the two-stage variable intake manifold, moving charge-movement flaps provide the necessary tumble effect, swirling the induced air around depending on operating point. To reach the high specific power and torque figures, a new FSI combustion process was developed – with potential for worldwide use and designed to run on 95/91 octane (RON) fuel.

The camshafts, oil pump and balancing shaft are all driven by a four-piece chain drive of the same type as in the 4.2-litre eight-cylinder unit.

Fine-tuning of the exhaust system offers the driver yet another bonus: the distinctly sporty but never intrusive sound of a genuine six-cylinder unit, making the qualities of the engine a truly sensory experience.

The 1.8 T

A successful engine version carried over from the previous model is also included in the range: the 1.8 T four-cylinder which delivers 120 kW (163 bhp). This is an outstanding example of how a modern turbocharged four-cylinder engine can combine high power output with excellent refinement.

Instead of priming its small, very responsive exhaust turbocharger for a peak output value, Audi has placed the emphasis on achieving a substantial, ideally accessible torque curve across a wide range.

It encourages the driver to move up the gears earlier on, so that a more economical higher gear can be used more frequently and for longer periods. All this is fully compatible with ample driving enjoyment.

Peak torque of 225 Nm is reached at an engine speed of just 1,950 rpm. This torque remains constant up to 4,700 rpm. This means that maximum torque is always available in the predominantly used driving/engine-speed range.

The Cabriolet 1.8 T with front-wheel drive consumes just 8.6 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres. 163 horsepower accelerate the Cabriolet to a top speed of 226 km/h, and from 0-100 km/h in a mere 9.3 seconds.

Transmissions

The supreme fuel economy and dynamic performance offered by the new Audi Cabriolet also results from the standard usage of the new generation of continuously variable multitronic transmission, now with seven predefined transmission ratios that can be preselected as an alternative.

Continuously variable multitronic

After making its production debut successfully in the year 2000, Audi’s continuously variable multitronic automatic transmission is again offering its superior qualities in the new Cabriolet, combining the benefits of a manual gearbox with those of a geared automatic transmission. Fortes typical of multitronic are smooth but very dynamic acceleration as well as convenient operation and the efficient transmission of power.

The high standard of operating convenience offered by multitronic exceeds that of a conventional converter-type automatic transmission, while in terms of dynamic performance and economy, multitronic can by all means be compared with a manual gearbox. If the driver wishes to actively choose the appropriate transmission ratio, he/she is able to do so at the gear lever or using the optional shift paddles on the steering wheel, now providing no fewer than seven predefined gear ratios.

Numerous reinforcements and adjustments, as well as optimised cooling, serve to significantly enhance the performance of Audi’s continuously variable automatic transmission. The multitronic is now even able to convey torque levels of up to 330 Nm, thus qualifying as an ideal partner even for the most powerful V6 engine in the range, the 3.2 FSI which develops an output of 255 bhp and 330 Nm of torque.

Modified for the new Audi Cabriolet, the multitronic variator spans an even wider range of gear ratios: the overall ratio between the largest and the smallest gear transmission ratio is 6.25, virtually ideal for such a transmission. This on the one hand permits dynamic, sports-style acceleration using the largest possible ratio, while on the other hand the engine’s fuel-saving potential is fully exploited using the smallest ratio.

A further special feature is the ability of the electronics to emulate the functions of a manual gearbox. For the latest multitronic version, Audi has opted for no fewer than seven forward gears which the driver can activate using the one-touch function in the second shift gate or by pressing the shift paddles on the steering wheel (optional extra).

These seven gearshift stages are memorised by the system as fixed shift programs.

Depending on which gear the driver selects, the controller is supplied with the ratio as a set point, which it establishes and maintains. Even these manually prompted gearshifts take place smoothly and jolt-free, satisfying the desire for sports performance.

Dynamic suspension

Dynamics and comfort, easy handling and active safety at the very highest level: on the basis of these strengths, Audi is demonstrating its proverbial “Vorsprung durch Technik” with the new Cabriolet’s dynamic suspension. Agility and ride comfort are equally impressive.

This road behaviour is the result of extensive modifications both in the area of elastokinematics as well as to the spring and shock absorber settings.

The predecessor’s tried-and-tested basic geometry has been adopted at both front and rear: four-link front suspension and the highly complex self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension. Both consist primarily of light-alloy components resulting in a low unsprung mass.

All versions of the Audi Cabriolet have disc brakes at the front and rear; the front discs are ventilated. Their dimensions have been adapted to the increased performance potential of the new generation of engines. Excellent controllability, spontaneous response and above all considerably reduced braking distances are the result.

The front suspension

On the four-link front suspension layout, each wheel is located by four aluminium control arms. Large-volume rubber components are used as the damper mounts on the new suspension design. This helps to effectively isolate the shock absorbers acoustically.

Several mounts as well as the considerably stiffer track rods on the front suspension have been adopted from the high-performance S4. The mounts for the control arm originate from the new Audi A6.

Together with the new shock absorber settings, this results in a particularly sensitive response to steering movements and even more precise feedback from the road. In other words, extremely dynamic behaviour which is isolated almost completely from front-wheel-drive influences.

High-tech rear suspension

The new Audi Cabriolet comes with one of the most complex, but also most efficient, rear suspension layouts around.

The trapezoidal-link rear suspension makes for top-quality ride comfort on all models, coupled with dynamic behaviour that will amaze the driver of many a competing model.

The trapezoidal link is made from hollow-section aluminium. This torsionally and flexurally rigid link absorbs a large portion of the forces acting on the wheel. Together with the track rod located behind it, it thus determines the elastokinematic behaviour of the axle.

This design is notable for its low weight as well as its outstanding space efficiency. The compact design permits a low load floor in the luggage compartment on all versions.

All wheel control elements pivot on the resiliently mounted subframe via rubber-metal mounts which isolate axle vibration very effectively from the body. Moulded rubber mountings are also used for the suspension springs between the trapezoidal link and the body’s longitudinal member. Here again, the material chosen provides excellent acoustic insulation.

The twin-tube gas-filled shock absorber is connected to the wheel carrier, so that a direct-ratio effect is obtained. Combined with the separately mounted spring, this ensures a particularly sensitive response from the shock absorber.

The trapezoidal links and wheel carriers on the Audi Cabriolet now also originate from the S4, a car whose suspension has demonstrated its all-round superiority in numerous individual and comparative tests conducted by the trade press. However, several mounts and the shock absorbers, which are considerably larger than on the previous model, have been adopted again from the A6.

Thanks to the precision work that has gone into modifying the rear suspension set-up, the dynamic qualities of this basic structure are demonstrated even more effectively. This all adds up to agility and excellent directional stability, outstanding straight-line running and a high level of comfort without any disturbing movements of the body.

The steering: precision and lightness

The new Audi Cabriolet has hydraulically assisted rack-and-pinion steering bolted rigidly to the suspension-strut cross member.

Audi’s developers have achieved an optimum steering layout in terms of safety for the Cabriolet. Because the steering column is mounted in two universal joints, it can be telescopically disengaged in the event of a crash, to isolate it from the steering gear and protect it against bulkhead intrusion.

The dictates of lightweight design even extend as far as the design of the steering wheels for the Audi Cabriolet: for reasons of weight, the single-section skeletons are die-cast in magnesium.

The new Audi Cabriolet models come as standard with hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering, featuring servotronic speed-dependent power assistance. The development goal here was to provide the highest conceivable standard of sporty steering precision and improved steering comfort.

The refined servotronic system enables the driver to manoeuvre into parking spaces with a minimum of steering effort and maximum accuracy, as well as providing a clear response from the road at higher speeds. The system also offers a high level of sensitivity around the straight-ahead position and even more comfortable initial response behaviour.

Road behaviour: a policy of neutrality

An excellent standard of comfort and superb traction when coming out of even the tightest of curves, neutral, clearly defined self-steering characteristics and, finally, maximum agility. These were the requirements to be met by those whose task it was to develop the new suspension.

Such targets can only be attained by coordinating all new and modified elements to a high standard of precision. The role of the new self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension in the overall package is of course particularly significant. Its elastokinematic properties ensure above all the desired precision of response, while significantly pushing back the handling limits.

On the circular test pad, the most revealing gauge of behaviour close to these limits, the Audi Cabriolet needs only a slight increase in the steering wheel angle to remain on course at moderate to high lateral acceleration.

From the driver’s standpoint, the effect is clear enough: the Audi Cabriolet remains unruffled even when close to the adhesion limits, and stays on the chosen line with controllable and strictly neutral behaviour.

At the same time, body movements even in S-bends remain moderate, without any of the loss of comfort that might be expected from this dynamically firm layout. A positive effect that is preserved even in a wide variety of load conditions.

Safety as standard: new ESP generation

All new Audi Cabriolet models come with the latest-generation electronic stabilisation program, ESP 8. This system comprises the anti-lock braking system ABS with electronic brake-force distribution EBD and hydraulic brake assist, which automatically increases brake power in panic-braking situations. Together with the yawing moment controller, the traction control system ASR and the electronic differential lock EDL provide the foundation for ESP safety.

The system has been developed to an even higher standard in terms of both electronics and hydraulics. New pressure control ensures even more precise intervention of the ESP stabilising functions in accordance with the given situation, particularly when the car is understeering. In the event of excessive understeer, all four wheels are braked if necessary so that the vehicle can be returned to its original course.

Yet another new feature is the brake disc wiping function integrated into ESP. This helps to keep the brake discs largely dry on wet roads, even if the driver has not braked for a long time. To provide this effect, the brake linings are pressed against the discs under low hydraulic pressure at regular intervals, ensuring even more spontaneous brake response under wet conditions, too. This process goes unnoticed by the driver.

For the first time, the new Audi Cabriolet is equipped with a two-stage ESP deactivation button. A brief press of the button deactivates the ASR traction control system only. This is sometimes necessary in order to be able to pull away in deep snow or on gravel. Even then, however, the EDL and ABS functions remain operative.

Wheels and tyres

In Australia, both Cabriolet versions are fitted as standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, shod with size 235/45 R17. A full sized spare tyre is also a standard feature.

Systematic safety

The new Audi Cabriolet remains faithful to the manufacturer’s best tradition of safety. A rigid body structure and meticulously calculated deformation properties, in conjunction with ultra-modern restraint systems – such as the new two-stage front airbags – and, last but not least, outstanding technical concepts such as roll-over bars projected behind the rear seats if the car turns over, create an outstanding level of occupant safety.

The floor assembly, where large-volume sills with an internal aluminium profile and sturdy cross-members direct and absorb the impact energy, provides a sound basis.

In a side impact, the occupants are protected by additional energy-absorbing side members in the doors as well as tube-reinforced side panels in combination with the side airbags.

The driver’s airbag is triggered in two stages depending on impact speed. An extensive system of crash sensors ensures that the front and side airbags are ignited at exactly the right moment. In addition to the upfront sensors, the triggering system comprises several remote satellite sensors at the sides.

The front airbag on the passenger’s side can be deactivated by key. This is an important function, particularly if a child is to travel on the passenger’s seat in a child car seat. All Audi Cabriolet models have provisions for mounting Isofix child seats on the rear seats. A seat belt reminder function for the driver is also part of the standard specification on all new Audi Cabriolet models.

One of the biggest safety risks for the passengers of a convertible is if the car rolls over. Audi has taken account of this with an extremely rigid windscreen frame and active roll-over bars. The bars are located in cassettes behind the rear seats, and shoot up within fractions of a second if necessary.

The seats also make a valuable contribution towards occupant protection. The front seats are integral steel structures with extremely rigid cross-bracing. They thus largely retain their shape in a side-on crash. This is of crucial benefit in keeping the survival zone intact.

Individuality and more

The new Audi Cabriolet is positioned in the top segment of the midsize class. It stands out for a range of standard equipment with quality and comfort attributes that would not be out of place in the luxury class. The scope for every owner to customise his or her own car is equally important. Personal style and the desire for an unmistakable touch of individuality, specifically in the car’s interior, play an even greater role for the Cabriolet than for the Audi A4 saloon or the A4 Avant.

Even the standard version of the new Audi Cabriolet leaves practically nothing wanting. And it offers the driver a broad range of possibilities for fulfilling his or her very own idea of contemporary, stylish mobility.

Appearance made to measure

Customers can choose from 13 exterior colours, five of which are being offered for the first time for the Audi Cabriolet. The range also includes four hood colours and three different tones for the headlining.

All components are colour-coordinated, with the result that every configuration creates a harmonious overall appearance.

The interior consequently satisfies virtually every design requirement. The materials used are without exception of the highest quality – a characteristic that is conveyed not only visually, but also by their feel. The top-of-the-range Pearl Nappa upholstery is a standard feature of Australian-specifications models.

Brushed aluminium inlays on the dashboard and doors, and door sill trims with aluminium inserts are all part of the standard specification. Wood inlays in Walnut brown or Fine grain birch wood grey or beige are available as options.

The standard equipment

The perfect climate can be enjoyed in the new Audi Cabriolet thanks to the deluxe automatic air conditioning. The standard version of this system, which also includes a sun sensor, allows the temperature to be adjusted separately for the driver and front-passenger sides. This system, which is equally important to comfort and safety, is part of the standard equipment specification of all new Cabriolet models.

The newly designed four-spoke steering wheel with single-frame design feature can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally. The 3.2 FSI model also features paddle shifts on the steering wheel.

The driver’s and front passenger’s seats have electrically-adjustable lumbar support whilst the V6 model boasts fully-electric front seats.

The safety equipment featured as standard in the new-generation Cabriolet is equally impressive. In the event of a collision, the car’s occupants are effectively protected by the robust structure of the body with predefined deformation and a highly stable passenger cell. And in conjunction with seat belt tensioners and belt-force limiters, the full-size front airbags and front side airbags offer the driver and passengers a high level of protection. The driver’s airbag is triggered in two stages depending on the severity of the accident.

Active safety benefits from the latest-generation electronic stabilisation program ESP 8.0complete with hydraulic brake assist, anti-lock brake system ABS, electronic brake-force distribution EBD, the traction control system ASR and the electronic differential lock EDL.

The brake-disc cleaning function is also an integral part of ESP. In wet conditions, this removes the film of water from the discs at predefined intervals, thus helping to reduce the vehicle’s braking distance considerably.

The motorway indicator function improves safety when overtaking: if the indicator lever is pushed up or down to just before its detent position and then released, the indicators flash three times.

Electric windows at front and rear – with finger protection – and electrically adjusted door mirrors optimise operating convenience.

The central locking is equipped with radio remote control, allowing the car to be locked and unlocked from quite some distance away. The car can easily be identified for example on a large, anonymous car park by unlocking it with the remote control; its indicator lights then flash making it easy to locate.

The instrument cluster's central display shows for instance the distance remaining on the fuel in the tank, the outside temperature and the distance remaining to the next service.

Good visibility is guaranteed by the standard clear-glass headlights with free-form technology. High-performance halogen fog lights integrated into the bumper are also part of the standard specification. The storage package can accommodate numerous personal items. It comprises drawers under both front seats and luggage nets on the back of the front seats. The standard specification also includes a load-through hatch with ski bag.

The automatic hood also provides maximum convenience. It can be opened and closed extremely quickly at the press of a button. This can be carried out at a speed of up to 30 km/h – in slow-moving city traffic, for example. The rear window is made of glass and can be heated – a further indication of the Cabriolet’s suitability for all-season use.

At a glance: The new Audi Cabriolet

• Newly designed body with emphatically sporty styling
• Dimensions: length 4,573 mm, height 1,391 mm, wheelbase 2,650 mm. Luggage compartment: 315 litres (246 litres with the hood open)
• Engines (longitudinally installed):
• 3.2 FSI V6 developing 188 kW (255 bhp), 330 Nm, 0-100 km/h:
• 6.8 s, top speed: 250 km/h (governed)
• 1.8 T developing 120 kW (163 bhp), 225 Nm, 0-100 km/h: 9.4 s, top speed: 226 km/h
• continuously variable 7-speed multitronic automatic transmission (in combination with front-wheel drive)
• Front-wheel drive
• Dynamic suspension: optimised four-link front suspension and self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension for precise, agile handling, brake system with improved performance, latest-generation ESP
• New: adaptive light (dynamic cornering lights)

Audi Cabriolet 1.8T Technical Data

Audi Cabriolet 3.2 Technical Data