In the world of luxury convertibles, few matchups spark as much excitement as the Audi S5 Cabriolet versus the Infiniti G37 Convertible. Both vehicles promise thrilling open-air drives with potent V6 engines, premium features, and stylish designs aimed at enthusiasts who crave performance without sacrificing everyday usability. The Audi S5, with its supercharged 3.0-liter V6 and quattro all-wheel drive, represents German engineering precision. Meanwhile, the Infiniti G37 counters with a naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6, offering a rear-wheel-drive bias in a package loaded with standard luxury kit. This comparison dives deep into their engines, driving dynamics, interiors, practicality, and long-term ownership to determine which one delivers the superior grand touring experience.
Powertrains and Performance Breakdown
At the heart of each car lies a V6 powerhouse, but their approaches to delivering speed differ significantly. The Audi S5 Cabriolet boasts a supercharged 3.0-liter engine producing 333 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 325 lb-ft of torque at 2,900 rpm. Paired with a smooth dual-clutch S tronic transmission and standard quattro AWD, it achieves seamless power delivery across all conditions. EPA estimates peg it at 17 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined, with a highway range of 419 miles.
The Infiniti G37 Convertible’s 3.7-liter V6 generates 330 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 270 lb-ft at 5,200 rpm, typically mated to a seven-speed automatic and available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. It edges out in efficiency with 19/27/22 mpg ratings and a superior 540-mile highway range, making it more suitable for long hauls. In real-world tests, the S5’s supercharger provides instant low-end grunt, ideal for quick overtakes, while the G37’s higher-revving nature suits track days but demands more effort.
| Specification | Audi S5 Cabriolet | Infiniti G37 Convertible |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 333 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 330 hp @ 7,000 rpm |
| Torque | 325 lb-ft @ 2,900 rpm | 270 lb-ft @ 5,200 rpm |
| Transmission | Dual-clutch Automatic (AWD) | 7-speed Automatic (RWD/AWD) |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 20 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Power-to-Weight | 0.086 hp/lb | 0.091 hp/lb |
The Audi’s torque advantage translates to a more responsive feel, especially from a standstill, while the Infiniti’s lighter power-to-weight ratio hints at nimbler acceleration in straight lines.
Handling and Ride Quality
Driving dynamics separate these two most clearly. The Audi S5 Cabriolet shines with its quattro system, providing unshakable grip in corners and wet conditions. Its suspension balances sportiness and comfort, absorbing bumps without compromising body control. Reviewers praise its precise steering and confidence-inspiring poise, making it a joy on twisty roads or highways.
The Infiniti G37, while capable, falls short in refinement. Its rear-wheel-drive setup offers playful tail-happy moments, but the ride feels harsher over imperfections, and handling lacks the S5’s planted feel. The convertible’s chassis tuning struggles to match the Audi’s composure, particularly with the roof down. In high-altitude drag tests, both performed admirably, but the S5’s supercharged setup maintained consistency.
- Audi S5 Strengths: Superior traction, balanced chassis, refined ride.
- Infiniti G37 Strengths: Engaging RWD dynamics, lighter feel.
- Weaknesses: G37’s firmer ride and less predictable grip in the wet.
Interior Comfort and Luxury Features
Cabin quality is where the Audi pulls ahead decisively. The S5 Cabriolet’s interior exudes premium craftsmanship with high-grade leathers, soft-touch surfaces, and an intuitive MMI system. Front seats offer excellent support for long drives, and rear space accommodates adults reasonably well for a convertible. The fabric roof deploys in seconds, staying quiet and insulated at speed.
The G37’s cabin, though well-built, feels dated with harder plastics and less inspiring materials. It provides more front headroom and legroom (39.1 inches headroom, 41.3 inches legroom vs. S5’s figures), but rear seating is cramped, and cargo space suffers when the hardtop folds—leaving little room for luggage. Standard features like navigation and premium audio are generous, but they don’t match the Audi’s polish.
| Dimension | Audi S5 | Infiniti G37 |
|---|---|---|
| Front Headroom | 39.1 in | 39.1 in |
| Front Legroom | 41.3 in (approx) | 41.3 in |
| Rear Headroom | 36.0 in | 36.0 in (less) |
| Cargo Space | 12.2 cu ft | Lower with top down |
Overall interior volume favors the G37 slightly at 84.0 cu ft, but the S5 wins on perceived luxury and usability.
Design and Practicality
Styling is subjective: the S5’s understated elegance appeals to traditionalists, with subtle S-line cues enhancing its coupe-like profile even as a cabrio. The G37’s bolder lines divide opinions—aggressive yet polarizing, lacking the Audi’s timeless allure.
Practicality tilts toward the Audi. Its larger boot (12.2 cu ft) remains usable roof-up or down, unlike the G37 where the folded hardtop dominates space. Both seat four, but the S5 offers better rear legroom and shoulder room. Fuel efficiency gives the Infiniti an edge for cost-conscious buyers, but the S5’s smoother powerband makes it more engaging daily.
Ownership Costs and Value
Pricing was close historically—the S5 around £45,895 and G37 GT Premium similarly equipped. Today, used values reflect the Audi’s stronger residuals and brand prestige, holding value better despite higher emissions. The G37 depreciates faster, with running costs elevated by thirstier real-world consumption and pricier maintenance for its Nissan roots.
Reliability data from comprehensive analyses shows both solid, but Audi’s AWD complexity may raise service bills. The Infiniti offers better value in used markets for budget hunters, with lower entry prices for 1-5-year-old models.
Real-World Driving Impressions
Enthusiasts transitioning from G37 to S5 often cite the Audi’s superior steering feel, flat-bottom wheel, and richer materials as upgrades. Forum consensus positions the S5 as more GT-oriented, with better composure than the sportier-but-harsher G37. In group tests, the S5 outperforms in balanced dynamics, while the G37 excels as a value GT cruiser.
Pros and Cons Summary
- Audi S5 Cabriolet:
- Pros: Exceptional handling, luxurious interior, strong residuals, versatile AWD.
- Cons: Slightly lower MPG, premium pricing.
- Infiniti G37 Convertible:
- Pros: Better fuel range, spacious front, engaging RWD option.
- Cons: Dated cabin, poor residuals, compromised practicality.
- Audi S5 vs. Infiniti G37 Coupe — iSeeCars.com. Accessed 2026. https://www.iseecars.com/compare/audi-s5-vs-infiniti-g37_coupe
- Audi S5 Cabriolet vs Infiniti G37 — Auto Express. 2010 (historical review, relevant for model comparison). https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/car-reviews/14506/audi-s5-cabriolet-vs-infiniti-g37
- 2013 Infiniti G37 vs Audi S5 vs Volvo S60 0-60 MPH — TFLcar. 2012-11. https://tflcar.com/2012/11/2013-infiniti-g37-vs-audi-s5-vs-volvo-s60-0-60-mph-mile-high-mashup-review/
- Audi S5 Convertible vs Infiniti G37 Convertible — CarBuzz. Accessed 2026. https://carbuzz.com/compare/audi-s5-convertible-vs-infiniti-g37-convertible/
Who Wins?
The Audi S5 Cabriolet emerges victorious, earning top marks for its refined powertrain, superior dynamics, and upscale interior. It’s the smarter pick for those prioritizing driving pleasure and luxury. The Infiniti G37 appeals to bargain seekers wanting raw V6 character, but it can’t match the S5’s all-around excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which car is faster, Audi S5 or Infiniti G37?
The S5’s supercharged torque gives it an edge in real-world acceleration, though 0-60 times are close.
Is the Infiniti G37 more reliable than the Audi S5?
Both score well, but Audi’s build quality and data-driven reliability metrics favor it long-term.
How do their convertible tops compare?
Audi’s fabric roof is quicker, quieter, and preserves more boot space versus the G37’s bulkier hardtop.
What’s better for daily driving?
The S5’s ride comfort and AWD make it ideal for varied conditions.
Are used models a good buy?
G37 offers lower entry costs, but S5 retains value better.