Deliberately Adopting a Soft Top

The Audi A5 is a model whose appeal lies in its blend of elegance and a sharp, masculine atmosphere, setting it apart from other vehicles. The A5 Cabriolet, launched by Audi Japan on August 25, 2009, is a lifestyle vehicle that combines the individuality of the coupe with the added charm of an electric soft top.

The model introduced to Japan is a single grade, combining a 3.2-liter V6 engine that meets the 2010 fuel economy standards with the quattro system.

A key feature of the Audi A5 Cabriolet is that it is a full four-seater, meaning it can accommodate four adults in an open-top configuration. While this format is popular in Europe, the A5 Cabriolet's deliberate choice of a soft top is noteworthy. In recent years, electric retractable metal tops have become mainstream, but Audi explains its decision to opt for an electric soft top by stating it "reduces weight and lowers the center of gravity, enhancing handling stability during cornering and other maneuvers."

The drivetrain has been selected with high-speed driving performance in mind. The engine is a 3.2-liter V6, which, along with its direct fuel injection system, incorporates Audi Valvelift System. This mechanism switches the lift of the intake valves to achieve a balance between fuel efficiency at low speeds and acceleration when the throttle is pressed. The maximum output is 265 ps, and the maximum torque is 33.7 kgm.

Japan Specification: Audi S tronic + quattro Only

The transmission is the 7-speed dual-clutch system, "Audi S tronic." The full-time four-wheel-drive quattro system typically distributes 60% of torque to the rear, aiming for sporty driving dynamics.

Environmental consideration is another characteristic of the A5 Cabriolet. In addition to meeting the 2010 fuel economy standards, it features an energy recovery system. This system generates energy during coasting or braking and stores it in the battery. One of its benefits is reduced load on the alternator.

The A5 Cabriolet's soft top has a three-layer structure with a maximum thickness of 15mm. Because it can be stowed compactly, the A5 Cabriolet offers a trunk space of 380 liters with the top up, giving it an advantage of 100 liters compared to rivals with retractable hardtops. Opening the top takes 15 seconds, and it can be operated while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h.

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BRAND HISTORY
The Audi emblem is the "Four Rings." As you may know, each ring represents one of the automotive manufacturers: Audi, DKW (de:ka:ve:), Horch, and Wanderer. All were based in Saxony and were leading brands in the German automotive industry at the beginning of the 20th century. However, facing the impact of the Great Depression after World War I, the four companies, in a bid for survival, formed Auto Union in 1932. DKW specialized in motorcycles and small cars, Wanderer in mid-size cars, Audi in premium mid-size cars, and Horch in luxury cars.

However, following Germany's defeat in World War II, Saxony in East Germany fell under Soviet occupation, and Auto Union ceased to exist. Anticipating this, the new Auto Union was established in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, in West Germany. Unlike BMW and Mercedes-Benz, Auto Union faced a challenging start without factories, but it gradually gained strength through the production of vehicles like the DKW delivery van.

Auto Union, acquired by Volkswagen at the end of 1964, soon introduced new models bearing the Audi name. In 1969, it merged with NSU (known for its development of the Wankel engine), based in Neckarsulm, becoming Audi NSU Auto Union. From 1985 onwards, it has continued as Audi to the present day. Audi's popularity is driven by its technology, including quattro, its dynamic performance backed by motorsport activities, elegant design, and high-quality finish.