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There was a time during his career when Australian cricketer Mark ‘Junior’ Waugh was issued the moniker ‘Audi’ after scoring four consecutive ducks (think ‘emblem’ and you’ll get the joke!). As clever as the nickname may have been, it was a surprising feat for a cricketer universally recognised as one of the most graceful batsmen to play the game. In fact everything Mark did on the cricket field was elegant and effortless. What is even more surprising then is that he wasn’t referred to as Audi his entire career.
After driving the Audi A5 cabriolet for a week I want to rename it the Audi Junior, for this car does everything perfectly and with ease. But it’s not just the ease; it’s the unpretentious manner in which it goes about its business.
It all starts when you are first introduced to the A5. It has a presence way beyond its size. I found myself staring at it every time I got out; a lingering glimpse over my shoulder as I walked away. This Audi was doing something for me but I couldn’t quite pick it. Until…
Even if you’re not in the market for a two-door cabriolet, do yourself a favour and simply look at an A5. I want to draw your attention to the line that runs from the top of the tail light to the top of the headlight. Pure artistry, as if drawn by someone who has spent years sketching nudes. The whole construction of this car emanates perfectly from this single flowing seam. It gives the entire body proportion.
So what’s it like to drive? About as well as Mark Waugh or the Tiger of old if I’m compelled to use a golfing analogy. There is nothing exaggerated or egotistical about the way the A5 handles, as if it has been to the ‘keep it simple’ school of motoring. Turning is precise at any speed and the suspension is firm enough to offer an enjoyable drive.
There were numerous qualities that didn’t stop impressing me. Very, very quiet by any standard, let alone a convertible. Even with the top down - and what a delight that is - you don’t have to make much of an adjustment to the volume control. When you fold the roof back and head off down the highway it is bliss.
Just on that, many soft tops look spectacular sans roof only to resemble someone in a cheap wig when it’s up. Audi have been able to maintain the integrity of the car’s shape and there is little difference between the cabriolet and hard top model. I didn’t time it but it couldn’t have been more than 10 seconds to pop the roof off or on; and infinitely more fun popping it off.
The engine was another surprise. I thought a two-litre might have been a tad too small for a traditionally heavy soft top, but no. The acceleration again enhances the unpretentious qualities of the A5. When you give it a squirt there’s no jolt from dropping gears or roars of increased revs; it just goes faster. While you’re waiting for the expected bravado, the Audi has nonchalantly gone from 0-100Kph in less than 9 seconds.
Did I mention that line that runs down the side? It’s lovely.
I do have to say this, as it is one of my recent bugbears. Whether I’m sitting in a large or small car I regularly find that the instrument panel, specifically the speedo, is obscured in part by the steering wheel. Not in the Audi A5. There it was, 0 – 8000RPM on the left and 0-280kmh on the right. Hoorah!
Now a little word of advice for all golfers thinking about taking the A5 Cabriolet down to the golf club. Don’t.
I can give you two reasons and the first is rather practical; the clubs won’t fit. The second is far more sensible. You’ll probably have much more fun driving the Audi around for four-and-a-half hours than you will spending the equivalent time on the golf course. And you will still be able to enjoy the fresh air, you’ll drive more accurately and if you do go over a hundred, you will absolutely love it.
If I didn’t write for this magazine I’d advise you to give up golf and buy one of these, but then I’d be out of a job. Better idea, buy one for the other half and hope they let you drive it every now and again.
By Greg Norlens.
at a glance
A5 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI multitronic
Engine: Inline four-cylinder spark-ignition engine with exhaust turbocharger and intercooled DOHC
Torque: 320Nm@ 3900rpm
0-100kph: 8.9 secs
Max speed: 219km/h
Fuel tank: 65 litres
Fuel economy: 7.4 litres/100km
Gross Vehicle Weight: 2155kg
Overall length: 4625mm
Wheel base: 2751mm
MLP: $80,900. As tested, $87,820 with extra options
comfort key ($1,400), Navigation package ($4,550) and CD changer ($970). For more information, visit
www.audi.com.au
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