Audi S5 Cabriolet 2017 Review | Driver's Seat

Audi has launched its drop-top version of the two-door A5 Coupe to take on topless rivals from Mercedes and BMW

The all-new second-generation A5 Cabriolet is 55kg lighter, 50mm longer, has a 14mm extended wheelbase but is 8mm slimmer than the model it replaces.

Each model gets Audi’s singleframe grille, narrow headlights, smooth body surfaces which feature a defined crease along the flanks and a pronounced boot lip.

The cabriolet gets a flush cover for when the fabric roof is open which is stored behind the rear seats, while with the top up, it retains an elegant profile.

A new roof opening mechanism can be operated by a one-touch button, taking just 15 seconds to open and 18 seconds to close at speeds up to 31mph.

The roof consists of three layers of acoustic fabric and the car features seatbelt microphones.

There are three engines at launch to choose from, two petrol and one diesel.

The entry-level petrol is a 2.0-litre TFSI 190PS developing 187bhp and 236lb ft of torque. It'll get to 62mph in 7.9 seconds. When fitted with the S Tronic automatic gearbox it'll return 50.4mpg (47.9 manual) and emit 127g/km (136 manual) of CO2.

The diesel range starts with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel which develops 187bhp and 295lb ft of torque, will return 62.8mpg and emit from 118g/km of CO2.

The S5 Cabriolet with its Quattro all-wheel drive and is even faster, yet more efficient than before.

It gets a new 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 TFSI petrol engine, which develops 349bhp and 369lb ft of torque from 1370 to 4500rpm.

From standstill to 62mph takes 5.1 seconds and it has a limited top speed of 155mph.

Depending on the engine you opt for, available transmissions include a six-speed manual, seven-speed S Tronic and an eight-speed Tiptronic. All models are current fitted with Quattro all-wheel drive.

The new A5 is available in SE, Sport, S Line and S5 trim.

SE models get Xenon headlamps, Audi MMI radio with 7.0in display, Bluetooth, heated front seats, twin leather, 40/20/40 rear seat split, LED daytime running lights; Xenon headlights, three-zone climate control and an electric boot lid.

Sport adds; 18in alloys; sports suspension; MMI satellite navigation; front and rear LED lights; electrically adjustable front sport seats in leather/Alcantara; and LED interior lighting pack.

S line models get a bodykit; 18in alloy wheels; sports suspension; front sport seats in leather/Alcantara; and LED front and rear lights.

At the top of the range, the S5 gets unique styling including; quad oval tailpipes; aluminium-effect door mirror housings; 19in alloy wheels and aluminium trim around the rear diffuser; air inlets and radiator grille. It also gets sports suspension and specially tuned brakes.

Inside, the S5 comes with Nappa leather; front sports seats which combine lumbar support, pneumatic adjustment and a massage function and MMI satellite navigation.

Prices start from £35,235 for the 2.0 TFSI in SE trim while the range-topping S5 costs £51,835.

We grabbed the keys to the S5 to take it for a test.