On the flip side, or rather the convertible top side comes a welcomed upgrade to the folding soft top. The fully automatic hydro-electric "hood" now
has the ability to open and close at speeds up to 18.6 mph (30 km/h), something that'll prove to be invaluable when stoplights go green before the top finishes dropping into place. As an option, the thermal-insulated roof can be upgraded to the new 'acoustic roof' which uses denser fabrics to further dampen noise. Audi claims that with this roof the car is as quiet on the inside as the A4 sedan or Avant, even at fast highway speeds.
Like the already facelifted A4s the Cabriolet gains similar changes, the biggest of which is the option of a DVD system governed by Audi's simple MMI logic system. Using the same intuitive menu architecture as the A6 and A8, it provides a clever interface with many controls, freeing up space and reducing unnecessary buttons. Also optional is a rain/light sensor that is used to operate the headlamps and windshield wipers automatically. All A4 Cabriolets will receive dual-zone
digital climate control, power mirrors and windows, central keyless locking, as well as front and side airbags. Minor differences on the dashboard, such as chrome-ringed circular air vents remain present with the update.
With interior ambience being one of Audi's hallmarks, the new A4 Convertible will surely impress. A total of thirteen exterior colors are available, five of which are new. To ensure that perfect color coordination exists, four different fabric top colors are also available. Interior trim and colors are nearly as numerous, and include such combinations as cloth, cloth and leather, leather, and Alcantara and leather, with accent trims consisting of fine polished wood, various metals and lacquer trims. Further customization includes a variety of wheel and tire packages, including 18-inch wheels from quattro GmbH on S-Line models.
Interestingly enough, while Audis competitors have added all-wheel drive to their midsize and compact sedans and wagons, all-wheel drive open-topped convertibles remain Audi's domain. The sharper styling, revised drivetrain, and chassis, better convertible tops plus that ever-useful quattro all-wheel drive system makes the A4 Cabriolet one of the only convertibles in the world suitable for true all-season use. Look for a North American introduction later this year, and for it to be in showrooms just in time for next spring.
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| As an option, the thermal-insulated roof can be upgraded to the new 'acoustic roof' which uses denser fabrics to further dampen noise. (Photo: Audi of America) |
Like the already facelifted A4s the Cabriolet gains similar changes, the biggest of which is the option of a DVD system governed by Audi's simple MMI logic system. Using the same intuitive menu architecture as the A6 and A8, it provides a clever interface with many controls, freeing up space and reducing unnecessary buttons. Also optional is a rain/light sensor that is used to operate the headlamps and windshield wipers automatically. All A4 Cabriolets will receive dual-zone
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| Further customization includes a variety of wheel and tire packages, including 18-inch wheels from quattro GmbH on S-Line models. (Photo: Audi of America) |
With interior ambience being one of Audi's hallmarks, the new A4 Convertible will surely impress. A total of thirteen exterior colors are available, five of which are new. To ensure that perfect color coordination exists, four different fabric top colors are also available. Interior trim and colors are nearly as numerous, and include such combinations as cloth, cloth and leather, leather, and Alcantara and leather, with accent trims consisting of fine polished wood, various metals and lacquer trims. Further customization includes a variety of wheel and tire packages, including 18-inch wheels from quattro GmbH on S-Line models.
Interestingly enough, while Audis competitors have added all-wheel drive to their midsize and compact sedans and wagons, all-wheel drive open-topped convertibles remain Audi's domain. The sharper styling, revised drivetrain, and chassis, better convertible tops plus that ever-useful quattro all-wheel drive system makes the A4 Cabriolet one of the only convertibles in the world suitable for true all-season use. Look for a North American introduction later this year, and for it to be in showrooms just in time for next spring.
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