The Audi A5 Cabriolet, specifically the 3.0 TFSI V6 (272 hp) quattro S tronic variant produced from 2011 to 2014, represents a significant iteration of Audi’s popular luxury open-top model. This version, part of the 8F7 facelift series, combined a potent supercharged V6 engine with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system and a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. Positioned as a premium offering within the A5 Cabriolet range, it catered to buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and open-air driving enjoyment. It built upon the foundation of the original A5 Cabriolet (introduced in 2009), addressing some initial criticisms and refining the overall driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Cabriolet (8F7, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TFSI V6 (272 Hp) quattro S tronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 199 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 272 Hp @ 4780-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 90.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2150-4780 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 2150-4780 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CMUA |
| Engine displacement | 2995 cm3 (182.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 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 | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 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 | 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 | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE to all wheels |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| 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 | 245/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A5 Cabriolet 3.0 TFSI quattro S tronic lies the CMUA engine, a 2,995 cc naturally aspirated V6. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is augmented by a mechanically driven supercharger, providing instant boost and eliminating turbo lag. The supercharger is integrated with an intercooler to manage intake air temperatures. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased power output. The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission delivers rapid and smooth gear changes, enhancing both performance and efficiency. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, providing excellent traction in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 272 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 3.0 TFSI engine, combined with the quick-shifting S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, resulted in a responsive and engaging driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in around 6 seconds, making it one of the quicker A5 Cabriolet variants. The supercharger provided immediate power delivery, unlike turbocharged engines which can exhibit some lag. The S tronic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for both acceleration and cruising efficiency. Compared to the base 1.8 TFSI models, the 3.0 TFSI offered significantly more power and a more refined driving experience. While not as raw or focused as the S5 Cabriolet, it provided a compelling balance of performance and comfort.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 TFSI quattro S tronic variant typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and Audi’s Multi Media Interface (MMI) infotainment system. Optional extras included navigation, advanced driver-assistance systems (such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring), and various cosmetic enhancements. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to brushed aluminum accents. The Cabriolet’s soft top was fully automatic and could be raised or lowered in a matter of seconds, even while driving at moderate speeds.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Cabriolet featured an independent multi-link suspension at all four corners, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. The front suspension utilized coil springs and shock absorbers, while the rear suspension employed a trapezoidal link design. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted to all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system worked in conjunction with the ABS anti-lock braking system to maintain control in challenging driving situations. The chassis was reinforced to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, ensuring structural rigidity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A5 Cabriolet 3.0 TFSI quattro S tronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined driving dynamics, and luxurious interior. Fuel economy, while respectable for a V6-powered convertible, was not its strongest suit, averaging around 27.7 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the 2.0 TFSI models, the 3.0 TFSI offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and the convertible top mechanism.
Legacy
The 3.0 TFSI engine proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. The S tronic transmission, while requiring more diligent maintenance than a traditional automatic, also demonstrated good long-term reliability when properly serviced. Today, the 2011-2014 A5 Cabriolet 3.0 TFSI quattro S tronic remains a desirable used car, offering a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and open-air driving enjoyment. Maintenance costs are moderate, typical for a premium European vehicle of this age. The CMUA engine is known for its robust construction and relatively straightforward maintenance procedures, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
