The Audi A5 Cabriolet 8F7, particularly the facelifted version produced from 2011 to 2016, represented Audi’s entry into the premium mid-size convertible market. The 1.8 TFSI (177 hp) Multitronic variant, produced from 2015-2016, served as a compelling option for buyers seeking a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability within the A5 Cabriolet range. This model occupied a mid-range position in the lineup, slotting below the more powerful 2.0 TFSI and 3.2 FSI models, and above any base engine offerings in other markets. It was designed to appeal to drivers prioritizing a comfortable open-top experience without the higher running costs associated with larger engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (8F7, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 TFSI (177 Hp) Multitronic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.3-7.8 l/100 km (32.2 – 30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2-6 l/100 km (45.2 – 39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6-6.7 l/100 km (39.2 – 35.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 139-154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 214 km/h (132.97 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 4000-6200 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1400-3850 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJEE |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.1 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1655 kg (3648.65 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2155 kg (4750.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 320 l (11.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 750 l (26.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4626 mm (182.13 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1383 mm (54.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2751 mm (108.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Rear track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Front overhang | 861 mm (33.9 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1014 mm (39.92 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Multitronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 8F7, launched in 2009 and facelifted in 2011, brought Audi’s design language and engineering prowess to the open-top mid-size segment. The 1.8 TFSI Multitronic variant, available from 2015-2016, was a key component of the A5 Cabriolet’s appeal. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s PL46 platform (internally known as the B8 platform, and shared with the Audi A4), the A5 Cabriolet offered a sophisticated alternative to rivals like the BMW 3 Series Convertible and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet. The 1.8 TFSI engine, coupled with Audi’s Multitronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), aimed to deliver a refined driving experience with reasonable fuel economy.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A5 Cabriolet is the EA888 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, specifically the CJEE engine code. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) combined with multi-point manifold injection, optimizing both power and efficiency. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a significant boost in power output. The Multitronic transmission is a continuously variable transmission (CVT) offering smooth, stepless gear changes. It features seven pre-set ratios that can be manually selected, though it primarily operates in automatic mode. This transmission was chosen for its efficiency and comfort, rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8 TFSI Multitronic A5 Cabriolet delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. With 177 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 8.5 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. While not a sports car, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The Multitronic transmission contributes to smooth acceleration and minimizes gearshift shock. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TFSI variant, the 1.8 TFSI feels less urgent, but offers better fuel economy. The CVT transmission, while smooth, lacks the engaging feel of a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but doesn’t offer the same level of grip as the quattro all-wheel-drive system available on other A5 models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 TFSI Multitronic A5 Cabriolet typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and an Audi Concert audio system. Optional extras included Audi’s MMI navigation system, heated seats, a wind deflector (to reduce wind buffeting with the top down), and various driver assistance systems like parking sensors and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that added cosmetic enhancements, upgraded audio systems, and additional convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet’s chassis features an independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. A transverse stabilizer bar is fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.8 TFSI Multitronic A5 Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined engine, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the CVT transmission lacked the engagement of a traditional automatic, and that the engine, while adequate, wasn’t particularly exciting. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI variant, the 1.8 TFSI offered a more affordable entry point into the A5 Cabriolet range, but at the expense of performance. Fuel economy figures of 39.2-35.1 US mpg combined were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The 1.8 TFSI engine, in various iterations, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant. The Multitronic transmission, however, has a reputation for requiring more frequent maintenance than traditional automatic transmissions, particularly fluid changes. In the used car market, the 1.8 TFSI A5 Cabriolet represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish and comfortable open-top experience. Regular maintenance, particularly of the Multitronic transmission, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The A5 Cabriolet, in general, has maintained a strong reputation for build quality and refinement, making it a desirable used car option.
