Audi has unveiled the first images and information on the new A5 Cabriolet, which will debut in spring 2009, and will be closely followed by the S5 Cabriolet flagship. Among the features are the lightweight soft-top and the extended wheelbase.

Chosen in preference to heavy and complex folding metal roof systems, the lightweight soft-top in the new A5 Cabriolet features a heated glass rear window, and in just 15 seconds retracts into a compartment within the boot that automatically lowers to accommodate it.

It also raises again in only 17 seconds, and can complete both operations at speeds of up to 31mph. When in place the three-layer roof very effectively insulates occupants from external noise.

An optional acoustic hood is also available to reduce sound intrusion to virtually the same level as the A5 Coupe.

Roof up or down, the A5 Cabriolet can transport up to four adults in comfort thanks to its extended wheelbase, which helps to maximize cabin space.

The luggage compartment has a capacity that ranges from 320 to 380 liters.

The range of engines includes three directly injected unit - the turbo charged 2.0-litre TFSI (211 hp), the 3.2-litre naturally aspirated V6 FSI (265 hp) and the 3.0-litre V6 TDI with 240PS.

2.0-litre TFSI and 3.2-litre FSI units are initially offered in conjunction with front-wheel-drive, while the 3.0-litre TDI is linked exclusively to the quattro four-wheel-drive system with 40% / 60% front-to-rear torque distribution.

A six-speed manual transmission carries engine power to the wheels in 2.0 TFSI models, while 3.2 FSI and 3.0 TDI versions feature two automatics – the multitronic continuously variable transmission in the 3.2 FSI and the new seven speed S tronic twin-clutch gearbox, developed specifically for longitudinal ‘north-south’ engine installations, in the 3.0 TDI quattro.

This all-new transmission will also be a standard feature of the S5 Cabriolet.

Further engine variants and additional quattro models will be phased in during 2009, and the automatic transmission options will also become more widely available.

The all-new chassis with repositioned front axle allowed to achieve an optimum weight distribution, while the new differential technology enables the quattro system to not only transfer torque between the front and rear axles to counter traction losses, but also between the rear wheels.

In addition to Audi drive select, the options list for the new A5 and S5 Cabriolets also offers driving assistants including adaptive cruise control, the side assist blind spot alert system and the lane assist lane departure warning system.

It also includes a 505-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system and a new third generation version of the Multi Media Interface infotainment control system.

Audi S5 Cabriolet

Scheduled to debut soon after the A5 Cabriolet models, the new S5 Cabriolet will be powered by the latest supercharged V6 TFSI engine, which combines a 333 hp power output, giving 5.6-second 0-62mph potential, with a reduced fuel consumption of up to 29.4mpg possible (provisional figure, combined cycle).

The S tronic twin-clutch transmission and quattro four-wheel-drive are standard features, the latter offering the option of the sports differential for maximum driving pleasure.

The S5 will ride lower than standard versions on specially tailored ‘S’ sports suspension and 19-inch ‘S’ design alloy wheels.

Among the distinguishing features are aluminium-look door mirrors, Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, rear LED lamps, special ‘S’ front and rear styling treatments and black painted brake callipers bearing the S5 logo.

(Source: Audi)