Audi S5 Cabriolet

Sun-seeking S model ushers in a new personality

- Louis Cordony

AS THE earth tilts to a more favourable axis Aussies will start warming to the idea of an Audi S5 without a roof. After all, Igolstadt’s white coats worked magic on the S5 Cabriolet’s donor vehicle, infusing a medium luxury coupe with dazzling dynamics and sizzling straight-line stonk.

We’re told the wheelbase has been extended, slightly, for more legroom. It’s 47mm longer. There’s high-strength steel padding the chassis, and the end result is a car 40kg lighter and 40 per cent stiffer than the old car, albeit 225kg heavier than its hard-top sibling.

In the metal its sleek and muscular, like if Heidi Klum was on Ninja Warrior, thanks to that ‘Tornado’ character line and bulging bonnet. Stowing away the roof, in 15 seconds, makes it twice as pretty, while neck heaters and wind blockers make it less chilly.