The Audi A5 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI V6 with the Multitronic transmission, produced between November 2008 and 2011, represents a sophisticated blend of performance and open-air luxury within the 8F7 generation A5 Cabriolet range. Positioned as a premium offering, this variant catered to buyers seeking a more powerful and refined driving experience compared to the base 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TDI models. It occupied the top echelon of the A5 Cabriolet lineup until the introduction of the S5 Cabriolet. This model combined a naturally aspirated 3.2-liter V6 engine with Audi’s continuously variable Multitronic transmission, offering a smooth and responsive driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (8F7) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.2 FSI V6 (265 Hp) Multitronic |
| Start of production | November, 2008 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 US mpg, 23.3 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 199 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 246 km/h (152.86 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 155 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 330 Nm @ 3000-5000 rpm (243.4 lb.-ft. @ 3000-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CALA |
| Engine displacement | 3197 cm3 (195.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 85.5 mm (3.37 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1710 kg (3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2210 kg (4872.22 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 | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4625 mm (182.09 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Height | 1383 mm (54.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2751 mm (108.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.309 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Multitronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A5 Cabriolet is the 3.2-liter CALA engine, a naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilizes FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) direct injection technology, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved efficiency and power output. The engine boasts a 12.5:1 compression ratio and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s power delivery is characterized by a broad torque curve, peaking at 330 Nm (243.4 lb-ft) between 3000 and 5000 rpm. Paired with this engine is Audi’s Multitronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the Multitronic utilizes a chain-driven system to provide a virtually infinite number of gear ratios, optimizing engine efficiency and providing seamless acceleration. The Multitronic transmission featured a Tiptronic mode, allowing drivers to manually select gear ratios for a more engaging driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.2 FSI V6 with Multitronic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the four-cylinder variants. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 6.6 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 152.86 mph. The Multitronic transmission contributed to smooth and refined acceleration, eliminating the shift shock often associated with traditional automatics. While not as overtly sporty as the S5 Cabriolet, the 3.2 FSI provided ample power for comfortable highway cruising and spirited driving. The CVT’s programming prioritized fuel efficiency, but the Tiptronic mode allowed drivers to access the engine’s full potential when desired. The front-wheel-drive configuration, while providing good traction in most conditions, didn’t offer the same level of handling balance as the quattro all-wheel-drive system available on other A5 models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.2 FSI V6 Cabriolet typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Optional extras included navigation system, heated seats, a wind deflector (to reduce wind buffeting with the top down), and advanced driver-assistance systems. Interior trim options included various wood and aluminum inlays. The dashboard layout was typical of Audi’s design language at the time, characterized by a clean and minimalist aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI utilized an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front suspension featured stabilizer bars to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the A5 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI for its refined driving experience, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. The Multitronic transmission received mixed reviews, with some appreciating its smoothness and efficiency, while others found it lacked the engagement of a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. Compared to the 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TDI models, the 3.2 FSI offered significantly more performance but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The 3.2 FSI was positioned as a competitor to other premium cabriolets, such as the BMW 3 Series Convertible and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet.
Legacy
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 3.2 FSI V6 with Multitronic, while not the most common variant, remains a desirable option for enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and open-air driving enjoyment. The CALA engine is generally considered reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial. The Multitronic transmission, however, can be prone to issues if not properly serviced, with potential for chain wear and valve body failures. Today, well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market, appealing to buyers who appreciate the unique combination of power and refinement offered by this variant.
