Audi A4 Cabriolet

Our verdict

The Audi A4 Cabriolet is a stylish but understated four-seat cabrio. Suddenly chopping the roof off the A4 makes a boring car a little bit more cheeky– it’s the better for it.

Comfort

An A4 that rides. So, so much better than A4s of old, the new car is quiet, comfy and composed - especially on long motorway hauls. And the fabric roof is a wonder when it comes to insulation from both noise and cold - the triple-layer design is as good as a folding hardtop.

Performance

Most people will opt for the company credit 2.0-litre TDI with 140bhp and that's a reasonably quick car with 0-62mph in 9.4 seconds and a 134mph top end. The 1.8-litre TFSI petrol turbo is quicker but thirstier. The engine that really stands out is the 3.0-litre V6 with Quattro-fast and relatively cheap to run.

Cool

Certainly, as long as you're a girl.

Quality

As with all Audi product recently the quality is high and the finish superlative.

Handling

The A4 hasn't lost much when it comes to the driving - steering is accurate but anaesthetised, the ride is firm but keeps the body nicely in check. No sign of scuttle shake.

Practicality

Remarkably practical for a cabrio. The roof folds neatly, there's still a decent boot when you do have the roof off and there's plenty of space for four people. Not much lost in the pursuit of a tanned forehead then.

Running costs

Low-ish company car tax brackets for the smaller-engined petrol 1.8TFSi and the 2.0-litre diesel, with the diesel achieving 51.4mpg. Then again, the A4 is a good value buy as long as you stay off the tempting options list.