Used Audi A4 Cabriolet 2005 - 2009 review

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.

Keeping an Audi 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.

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.

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