New BMW 4 Series Convertible vs Audi A5 Cabriolet: verdict
Audi and BMW are old hands at making classy four-seat convertibles that are refined enough to use all year round. Let’s see if BMW’s latest 4 Series drop-top can upstage its toughest rival...
Our verdict
While soft-top convertibles are generally easier to recommend than folding hard-tops, they still tend to be significantly less enjoyable to drive than the coupés on which they’re based. But the BMW 4 Series Convertible is an exception.
Like the class-leading BMW 4 Series Coupé, it blends agile, balanced handling with impressive comfort, plus it’s refined with the roof up or down and surprisingly practical for a car of this sort.
The Audi A5 Cabriolet continues to set the standard for interior quality, and it’s the better-equipped car in the form we’re testing. However, it’s also very expensive, while compromised dynamics mean you can’t make the most of its extra power.
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1st – BMW 4 Series Convertible
For Agile handling; comfy ride; user-friendly infotainment; cheaper to buy and run
Against Adjustable lumbar costs extra; some visibility issues; rear seats don’t split
Recommended options Technology Pack (£1700), wind deflector (£350), adjustable lumbar support (£195)
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
Read our full BMW 4 Series Convertible review >>
Find BMW 4 Series Convertible deals >>
2nd – Audi A5 Cabriolet
For Stronger engine; slightly classier interior; better standard stereo; very well equipped
Against Imprecise steering; less forgiving suspension; high list price and PCP bills
Recommended options Wind deflector (£360)
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full Audi A5 Cabriolet review >>
Specifications: BMW 4 Series Convertible
Engine 4cyl, 1998cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 181bhp at 5000-6000rpm
Peak torque 221Ib ft at 1350-4000rpm
Gearbox 8-spd automatic
0-60mph 7.7sec
30-70mph 8.0sec
Top speed 147mph
30-0mph 7.7m
70-0mph 45.6m
Noise at 30mph 63.9db
Noise at 70mph 67.8db
Kerb weight 1765kg
Tyre size (std) 225/40 R19 (f), 255/35 R19 (r)
Fuel tank 59 litres
CO2 emissions 154g/km
Specifications: Audi A5 Cabriolet
Engine 4cyl, 1984cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 201bhp at 4475-6000rpm
Peak torque 236Ib ft at 1450-4475rpm
Gearbox 7-spd dual-clutch automatic
0-60mph 7.4sec
30-70mph 6.8sec
Top speed 147mph
30-0mph 8.3m
70-0mph 41.9m
Noise at 30mph 61.9db
Noise at 70mph 67.9db
Kerb weight 1670kg
Tyre size (std) 265/30 R20
Fuel tank 54 litres
CO2 emissions 165g/km
Test weather conditions Dry
Cars pictured
BMW 4 Series Convertible 420i M Sport with Sanremo Green metallic paint (£695) and Anthracite Silver Fleck roof (£270), Technology Plus Pack (£2350), M Sport Pro Package (£2300), Visibility Pack (£1500), Comfort Pack (£1280) and adjustable lumbar support (£195)
Audi A5 Cabriolet 40 TFSI Vorsprung S tronic with Daytona Grey pearl-effect paint (£675) and red roof (no-cost option), wind deflector (£360) and Storage Pack (£195)
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