Audi A4 Cabriolet S4 quattro Cabriolet

Advantages: Acceleration (V6, S4), Automatic-transmission performance (CVT), Steering/handling, Ride (base suspension), Interior materials, Available AWD
Disadvantages: Rear-seat room

...The vast majority of A4s are sold with quattro. Quattro A4s with 4 cyl and automatic transmission feel slightly underpowered. Manual-transmission quattro 1.8Ts are lively enough, while manual-transmission V6 quattros are satisfyingly quick. Lighter front-drive models feel spry with any transmission, though CVT versions are lazy from a stop. Test 1.8T CVT sedan did 8.6 sec 0-60 mph; test V6 CVT Cabriolet did 7.8. Seamless CVT acts much like conventional automatic, but requires use of manual mode for best performance. Manual transmissions controlled by precise shifters. S4's V8 strong at all speeds; test sedan did 5.6 sec 0-60. Averages for manual-transmission test models: 1.8T sedan, 24.8 mpg; 1.8T Avant, 21.5; V6 quattro sedans,18.3-21; S4 sedan, 15.6; S4 Avant, 15.9; S4 Cabriolet, 14.1. Audi says CVT is 10 percent more fuel efficient... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Terrific 'build quality', image
Disadvantages: Actual build quality, ride, seats, dealer, importer

...me no recompense. In short, this was the worst new car we have ever owned in terms of reliability and importer / dealer service. However, when you look at Audi sales figures in the UK you can see why. The dealers have a long line of punters (most improved sales in 2006 of any importer) desperate to buy into the brand, and service facilities from the last millenium, so they concentrate on the bottom line - shifting the metal from the showroom - and once you have the vehicle, well.......! Mercedes have been through this syndrome a few years ago, and are now very much improved. The Audi went, to be replaced by a Merc cabriolet, what an improvement ! Decent dealership, good after sales, and a car with comfortable seats and decent ride quality. So far only 6,000 miles, but compared to the Audi - it is wonderful. Audi good points... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Fun to drive - a genuine 4 seater convertable
Disadvantages: visibility

...Owned a 2.0 deisel cabriolet S-line for 3 months now and it is great fun and economical - in excess of 40 mpg. Acceleration is quick for a deisel due to the excellent manual gearbox - better than the 1.8 petrol automatic version. It will seat 4 adults easily and, with the hood up, will carry almost as much luggage as a standard A4. With the hood down about 50% of the boot space is taken up. The S-line gives many extras including leather seats, and sports suspension as standard. It is a worthwhile package. The hood operating mechanism works smoothly and efficiently with a manual override if necessary. One small grouse is the lack of choice of dashboard trim. Walnut/birch etc inlay is not available even as an extra, the only choices being brush aluminium or 'piano' (black plastic).... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful