Audi S5 Cabriolet: Complete 2024 Review And Specs

The Audi S5 Cabriolet stands out as a premium drop-top that masterfully combines exhilarating acceleration, sophisticated styling, and everyday usability. Powered by a **3.0-liter twin-turbo V6** engine delivering 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, this convertible hits 0-60 mph in just 4.7-4.8 seconds, making it a true sports car with luxury credentials.

Striking Exterior Design and Engineering

Audi’s signature design language shines on the S5 Cabriolet, with its sculpted lines, aggressive front grille, and sleek profile that turns heads. Available in eye-catching colors like Chronos Gray Metallic or Arkona White, the car pairs beautifully with a black acoustic soft-top. The optional 20-inch 5-V-spoke star wheels and red brake calipers from the S Sport package enhance its sporty stance.

The power-folding soft-top is a highlight, operating in 15-18 seconds even at speeds up to 31 mph. Its three-layer insulation keeps wind and road noise minimal when closed, transforming the cabin into a quiet sanctuary. A stowable wind deflector in the trunk further refines open-top cruising.

Luxurious and Tech-Rich Interior

Step inside the S5 Cabriolet, and you’re enveloped in high-quality materials: perforated leather seats, carbon atlas inlays, and soft-touch surfaces. The sporty three-spoke steering wheel with paddle shifters and the 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit digital display provide an immersive driving experience. Graphics are crisp, and full-screen navigation integration remains a standout feature.

Prestige trims add three-zone climate control, wireless charging, and ambient LED lighting. While controls are intuitive, the dual-screen infotainment lacks the latest haptic interfaces in newer Audis but earns praise for logical placement and ease of use. Rear seats exist but are best for short trips due to limited space.

• Key Interior Features:
• 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit with customizable views
• Leather-upholstered seats with heating and ventilation
• MMI touchscreen navigation
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Premium Bang & Olufsen sound system (optional)

Dynamic Performance and Handling

At its core, the S5 Cabriolet is powered by a responsive twin-turbo V6 mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s renowned **quattro all-wheel drive**. This setup ensures confident grip in all conditions, with the optional S Sport package adding adaptive dampers, torque-vectoring rear differential, and sportier tires for sharper cornering.

Drive modes range from Comfort for smooth highway runs to Dynamic, which sharpens throttle response, firms the suspension, and deepens the exhaust note. Reviewers note its balance: quick yet composed, blending AWD traction with rear-drive-like agility. Braking is strong, and steering provides precise feedback with progressive weighting.

Comfort Meets Sportiness

Despite its performance focus, the S5 Cabriolet excels in refinement. The adaptive suspension soaks up bumps in Comfort mode while maintaining body control in Dynamic. Cabin noise is low, thanks to the acoustic top and solid insulation. It’s ideal for city driving, with light electric-assisted steering easing parking and urban maneuvers.

Open-top motoring feels pure joy, especially on twisty roads where the V6’s throaty growl shines. However, the ride can feel stiffer than non-S models, and wind buffeting is managed well with the deflector.

Safety and Advanced Driver Aids

For 2024, the S5 gains expanded standard safety tech, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and traffic jam assist. The Prestige package bundles more, like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Audi’s pre-sense system adds proactive safety by scanning for hazards.

Pricing and Trim Options

Starting around $63,000 for the base Premium Plus, prices climb to $75,000+ for Prestige with options. The convertible premium over the coupe is notable, but value shines in standard equipment like navigation and AWD. No free maintenance plan is a drawback compared to rivals.

Trim Comparison:

• Premium Plus: Base luxury, Virtual Cockpit, heated seats
• Prestige: Adds adaptive suspension, premium audio, advanced safety
• S Sport Package: Performance upgrades for enthusiasts

Rivals and Market Position

The S5 Cabriolet competes with the BMW 4 Series Convertible, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet, and Porsche 718 Boxster. It offers superior AWD usability and luxury but trails in raw power against some, like the BMW M440i. Its balance of comfort and sportiness sets it apart for year-round driving.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Potent V6 acceleration, excellent handling, quiet cabin, stunning looks, user-friendly tech
• Cons: Tight rear space, higher price for convertible, no manual option, stiffer ride

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Audi S5 Cabriolet worth buying used?

Pre-owned models from 2018+ offer great value, with reliable V6 power and open-top fun, but check for top maintenance. Expect 0-60 around 4.2-4.8s.

How quiet is the S5 Cabriolet with the top up?

Exceptionally quiet due to acoustic insulation, rivaling hardtops for highway comfort.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Around 19 city/28 highway mpg, solid for a performance convertible.

Does it have a manual transmission?

No, it’s 8-speed automatic only, prioritizing smooth shifts.

Can the top operate while driving?

Yes, up to 31 mph, opening in 15 seconds.

Ownership Experience and Reliability

Owners praise the S5’s blend of luxury and speed, with quattro excelling in wet conditions. Maintenance costs are premium, but the engine proves durable. Warranty covers 4 years/50,000 miles. For 2024 updates like new colors and tech enhance appeal.

In summary, the Audi S5 Cabriolet delivers a compelling package for those seeking a versatile grand tourer. Its poised dynamics, elegant cabin, and effortless top-down freedom make it a standout in the luxury convertible segment.