The Audi A5 hasn’t been crash tested yet, but the A4 – with which it shares many components – was awarded the maximum five stars in the more stringent Euro NCAP crash test criteria, introduced in 2009. All A5 models have electronic stability control (ESP) and front and side airbags as standard. Quattro all-wheel drive available on top versions can also help stability in slippery conditions.
The benefit of offering a fabric hood as opposed to a metal roof is that it takes up far less room when folded in the boot. This means the A5 Cabriolet offers 360 litres of boot space – identical to the Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabriolet – and considerably more than a BMW 3-Series Convertible. It’s easily big enough for a couple of suitcases plus the rear seats can be folded forward increasing space available for those odd occasions when more cargo volume may be needed.
Usefully, the roof can be folded up or down on the move at speeds of up to 30mph – far quicker than most other convertibles with a similar system – and means you don’t have to pull over if you caught in a sudden downpour. Instead of a standard handbrake, there’s an electric parking brake, operated by a button next to the gear lever.
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