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Audi is a brand that sets the standard for interior quality, and this, combined with its vast and ever-growing model line-up, has helped it become one of the ‘big three’ German prestige car makers, along with BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The A3 hatchback, A4 executive saloon and Q7 SUV are all common - yet upmarket - sights on UK roads.

At least some of Audi's success over the past 30 years can be attributed to the growth in sales of vehicles with four-wheel drive; the company arguably led the way in bringing 4x4 technology into the mainstream, with its Quattro coupé in the early 1980s.

Today, most Audis are available with at least the option of four-wheel drive, while the list of SUVs from the brand includes the Q2, Q3, Q5 and Q7.

AUDI

The Audi is a sophisticated soft-top, but it's not cheap to run, and not the best to drive.

Used Audi A4 Cabriolet 2005 - 2009

Keeping an <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/audi">Audi</a> A4 Cabriolet on the road is not something that can be done on a tight budget. The two smaller petrol models have an official average of 34mpg, while the 3.2-litre falls to 29.4mpg and the 4.2-litre a meagre 20.5mpg. The diesels manage 44.1mpg and 35.8mpg.

CO2 emissions are high, with the petrol models ranging from 199g/km to 331g/km. The diesels emit 173g/km to 209g/km.

Servicing costs are only average for this type of car, but you could try an independent specialist once a car's out of warranty to save some money.

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The Audi is a sophisticated soft-top, but it's not cheap to run, and not the best to drive.

The 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol model produces 161bhp, but it's no more efficient than the 197bhp 2.0 TFSI engine. The more powerful engine gives the A4 a good turn of speed - taking it from 0-60mph in 8.1 seconds. The 252bhp 3.2 V6 comes in four-wheel-drive form as standard, while the 4.2 V8 S4 is incredibly fast, but extremely thirsty.

Diesel fans should choose the 138bhp 2.0 TDI, which copes well with the weight of the car. The 230bhp 3.0TDI is significantly faster, but also significantly more expensive to run.

All A4 Cabriolets get plenty of kit, including an electrically powered hood, climate control, foglights, alloys and a CD player. Sport trim comes with firmer suspension, upgraded alloys and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. The high-end S Line comes with 18-inch alloys, leather upholstery, extra body and cabin trim, plus an upgraded stereo.

The CVT automatic gearbox option is reasonable, but the six-speed manual gearbox is more satisfying to use - and will help get more miles to the gallon. Avoid non-metallic paint colours, because they're worth noticeably less on the used market, but try to find a car with the upgraded BOSE stereo system.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter <a href="https://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a>

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What we're looking for:<ul><li>Wind-in-the-hair excitement</li> <li>Roof that’s quick and easy to raise and lower</li> <li>Comfortable seating for four adults</li> <li>Sufficient practicality for everyday use</li> <li>Little wind buffeting</li> <li>Quietness, whether the roof is up or down</li> <li>Minimal shaking and shimmying over bumps</li></ul>

Despite the British weather, UK car buyers are among the biggest enthusiasts for wind-in-your-hair motoring, so convertibles have always been surprisingly popular here. It’s best to be able to react to the fickle climate, though, so a roof that opens (and closes) quickly is every bit as important as good top-down cruising refinement.

There are precious few bespoke drop-tops these days, so your choice of models is generally limited to soft-top versions of existing models. But there are still some fantastic options out there.

Convertible

As with the previous A4 Cabriolet that it's based on, this generation of car is generally reliable, but there are some things to be aware of.

The electrics and ventilation systems are the most vulnerable, so make sure all switches and controls work correctly, and that the climate control blows cold as well as hot air.

You need to make sure that the roof is in good condition, because repairs can prove costly. Make sure there are no tears in the fabric, and look for signs of water leaks with the roof up and down. Older fabric hoods will require cleaning and re-waterproofing to stay at their best.

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After five years on sale, the Audi A4 cabriolet was given a comprehensive update in 2005.

Audi's convertibles have always possessed an understated elegance, and the A4 Cabrio is no different. Unlike the pre-facelift car, though, it had the large front grille found on modern Audis, meaning it looks a lot more contemporary.

The A4 is one of the most refined convertibles available, with little wind-, road- or engine noise (with the roof up). There's decent space in the front for passengers, and all but the very tallest should be comfortable in the back. The boot is small, however, and there's a general shortage of storage space throughout the cabin.

There's decent grip with both front- and four-wheel-drive models, and the steering is informative. The ride is on the firm side, though.

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Used Audi A4 Cabriolet 2005 - 2009 reliability

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Used Audi A4 Cabriolet 2005 - 2009 review

As with the previous A4 Cabriolet that it's based on, this generation of car is generally reliable, but there are some things to be aware of.,The electrics and ventilation systems are the most vulnerable, so make sure all switches and controls work correctly, and that the climate control blows cold as well as hot air.,You need to make sure that the roof is in good condition, because repairs can prove costly. Make sure there are no tears in the fabric, and look for signs of water leaks with the roof up and down. Older fabric hoods will require cleaning and re-waterproofing to stay at their best. 

What to look for when buying a Audi A4 2005 - 2009, covering common problems to check for and overall vehicle reliability.

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