The Audi A5 Cabriolet, specifically the 8F7 facelift model produced from 2011 to 2015, represented Audi’s entry into the premium mid-size convertible market. The 2.0 TDI variant, producing 177 horsepower, occupied a significant position within the A5 Cabriolet range, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and a comparatively accessible price point. This model was primarily aimed at European markets where diesel engines were favored, and represented a practical choice for buyers seeking a stylish open-top car for both daily commuting and longer journeys. It sat in the mid-range of the A5 Cabriolet lineup, positioned below the more powerful 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TDI models, and above any base-level engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (8F7, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (177 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 127 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 222 km/h (137.94 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CGLC |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 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%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 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 (Back) 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 (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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| 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 variant is the CGLC engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and widespread use across various models. The CGLC utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to increase power output and improve torque delivery. The engine also features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and overall performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. The engine’s longitudinal mounting allowed for efficient packaging within the front-wheel-drive layout.
Driving Characteristics
The 177 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque offered by the 2.0 TDI engine provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for the A5 Cabriolet. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.4 seconds, and top speed was around 138 mph. The engine’s peak torque, available from 1750-2500 rpm, meant that the car felt responsive in everyday driving situations, offering good pulling power for overtaking and merging. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TFSI petrol engine, the TDI lacked the immediate responsiveness and high-end power, but it compensated with significantly better fuel economy. The manual transmission, while engaging, had relatively long throws. The front-wheel-drive configuration, while contributing to fuel efficiency, could exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI A5 Cabriolet typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, an Audi Concert audio system, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, though leather options were available as upgrades. Optional extras included Audi’s MMI navigation system, heated seats, parking sensors, and a premium sound system. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that added cosmetic enhancements, such as different wheel designs and interior trim materials. The focus was on providing a comfortable and well-equipped driving experience without the premium price tag of the higher-spec models.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet’s chassis featured an independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal lever suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering strong stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, making it well-suited for long-distance cruising. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 TDI A5 Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and stylish convertible. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, particularly in Europe, where diesel fuel was often cheaper than petrol. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI, the TDI offered significantly better fuel efficiency, but at the expense of some performance. Reliability was generally good, although, like all modern diesel engines, it was susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. The manual transmission was praised for its smooth operation, but some reviewers found it to be a bit notchy.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDI engine in the A5 Cabriolet has proven to be a relatively durable and reliable powertrain. However, as with any diesel engine, proper maintenance is crucial, particularly regarding the DPF and fuel injectors. On the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish and fuel-efficient convertible. While not as sought-after as the higher-performance variants, the 2.0 TDI A5 Cabriolet remains a popular choice for those prioritizing practicality and running costs over outright speed. The engine’s longevity and the A5 Cabriolet’s overall build quality contribute to its continued appeal in the used car market.
