The Audi A5 Cabriolet (F5) 3.0 TDI quattro tiptronic represents a sophisticated blend of performance, luxury, and open-air driving enjoyment. Produced between 2017 and 2018, this variant occupied a premium position within the A5 Cabriolet range, offering a powerful diesel engine paired with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system and a smooth-shifting eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. It was part of the F5 generation, which brought significant advancements in technology, design, and driving dynamics to the A5 line.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (F5) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI (286 Hp) quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6-6.8 l/100 km (35.6 – 34.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1-5.4 l/100 km (46.1 – 43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7-5.9 l/100 km (41.3 – 39.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 148-154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 152.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 329.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 286 Hp @ 3750-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DCPC |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2380 kg (5247 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4673 mm (183.98 in.) |
| Width | 1846 mm (72.68 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Height | 1383 mm (54.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2765 mm (108.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Front overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1030 mm (40.55 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A5 Cabriolet 3.0 TDI quattro tiptronic lies the 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine, designated as the DCPC engine code. This engine is a member of Audi’s modular engine family, known for its robust construction and refined performance. It features a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chambers at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine also incorporates a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The V6 configuration provides inherent smoothness and balance, contributing to a refined driving experience. The eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission is a torque-converter type, offering both fully automatic operation and the ability for the driver to manually select gears via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. This transmission is known for its quick and seamless shifts, contributing to both performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 TDI engine delivers a substantial 620 Nm (457.29 lb-ft) of torque, available from a low 1500 rpm. This provides effortless acceleration and strong pulling power in virtually any gear. The quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5.4 seconds, making it a genuinely quick convertible. Compared to the base 1.8 TFSI or 2.0 TDI models, the 3.0 TDI offers a significantly more powerful and refined driving experience. While the lower-powered variants prioritize fuel economy, the 3.0 TDI focuses on providing a blend of performance and efficiency. The tiptronic transmission’s gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s torque curve, providing responsive acceleration and comfortable cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 TDI quattro tiptronic typically came equipped with a high level of standard features. These included leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a central display screen, and a premium sound system. Standard safety features included multiple airbags, ABS, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Optional extras included features like adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and upgraded interior trim materials. The A5 Cabriolet’s interior was designed with a focus on quality and comfort, offering a luxurious and refined environment for both driver and passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet features a sophisticated chassis design, with independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining precise handling. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a responsive and accurate feel. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. The suspension tuning is geared towards providing a balance between comfort and sporty handling, making it suitable for both everyday driving and spirited excursions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 3.0 TDI quattro tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined driving dynamics, and luxurious interior. Fuel economy was also considered to be respectable for a vehicle of its size and performance. Compared to competitors like the BMW 4 Series Convertible and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet, the A5 offered a compelling combination of features and performance. Some critics noted that the diesel engine could be slightly noisy compared to gasoline alternatives, but this was generally considered a minor drawback.
Legacy
The 3.0 TDI engine in the F5 A5 Cabriolet has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines have faced increased scrutiny in recent years, this particular engine has a good reputation for longevity, provided it has been properly maintained. In the used car market, the A5 Cabriolet 3.0 TDI quattro tiptronic remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a stylish and capable convertible with strong performance and good fuel economy. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain.
