The new A4 Cabriolet makes its world public debut in Frankfurt. Sharing new engines and extensive chassis revisions with the recently upgraded A4 Saloon and Avant models it will stand alongside at the International Motor Show, the latest Audi soft-top will be available to order in the UK from November for first deliveries in the first quarter of 2006. The single frame front grille that symbolises the new Audi family look brings the new A4 Cabriolet into line with its fixed roof relatives, while a subtle redesign of the rear lights and bumper and new alloy wheel designs completes the update.

Of the four engines available from launch, three are new to the A4 Cabriolet - the four-cylinder turbo petrol 2.0 T FSI with 200PS, the 3.2 V6 FSI with 255PS and the 3.0 V6 TDI, now upgraded from 204PS to 233PS. The proven 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol with 163PS also features in the initial line-up.

The latest A4 Cabriolet’s four-link front and self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension has been extensively modified to include new elements such as shock absorbers, mountings, trapezoidal links and track rods adopted from the new A6 and the S4 quattro. Revised spring and shock absorber settings and a thorough rework of the steering configuration also help to give the driver greater precision, but also better feedback from the road when cruising. Servotronic speed-sensitive power steering is a new standard feature of the 2.0 T FSI, 3.2 V6 FSI and 3.0 TDI versions.

As before, the new A4 Cabriolet features an electro-hydraulically operated hood with a heated glass rear window as standard across the range. Its sound insulation can be further improved in the latest model by an optional acoustic hood, which through the use of new fabrics with a greater density reduces cabin noise to a level that virtually matches the fixed head A4 Saloon.

In addition to the power hood, standard equipment for the latest A4 Cabriolet also includes 16-inch, 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels (depending on version), electric front and rear windows and mirrors, electronic climate control, a Concert audio system with CD player and an automatic roll-over protection system. UK pricing and detailed specification for the new A4 Cabriolet will be announced nearer to its November UK on sale date.

Text: Classic Driver
Photos: Audi