Boulevard bully - Audi's RS 5 Cabrio

Published Sep 6, 2012

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Whether you simply can't resist the thought of dropping the roof to hear Audi's high-revving V8 in all its glory, or you're just after a boulevard cruiser with bahnstorming mood swing potential, you're likely to agree that the new Audi RS 5 Cabriolet is a tantalising addition to the range.

Just like the RS 5 Coupé we know, the Cabriolet is shoved along by Audi's high-revving 4.2-litre FSI naturally aspirated V8 engine, credited with 331kW at a screaming 8250rpm and 430Nm of twisting force between 4000 and 6000rpm.

That's good enough, says Audi, to get it to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds and on to 280km/h if you specify Audi's more liberal electronic speed nanny.

The official combined fuel consumption number is 10.9 l/100km and you're about as likely to achieve this in the real world as Julius is of keeping his trap closed.

All the usual RS 5 paraphernalia is in place here, including a seven-speed S tronic gearbox with launch control, quattro all-wheel drive that's capable of sending up to 85 percent of the drive to the rear, torque vectoring control, drive select (with three settings for the exhaust, throttle, gearbox and steering) as well as 20mm-lower suspension. Buyers can also opt for a sport differential that actively distributes power between the rear wheels via two superposition gears and Audi's Dynamic Ride Control is available too.

19-inch rims are standard, but those with a 20-inch craving can opt for one of three designs in that size.

THE CABRIO STUFF

No surprises here - the RS 5 Cabriolet offers a classic soft top that, at the push of a button, can open in 15 seconds and close in 17 seconds and can operate at speeds of up to 50km/h if the heavens open up on you all of a sudden.

Those that don't pack too light can be grateful that the fabric top doesn't eat up too much luggage space. When folded away it takes just 60 litres of the boot's 380 litre capacity.

This hardcore Cabrio will go on sale in Europe early next year and we'll let you know when it's coming to South Africa as soon as we hear from Audi SA.

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