Audi is playing it safe with the new A4 Cabriolet, making its world debut at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show. Externally, the only significant differences between the new car and the old are around the new single frame front grille and shapely headlights, as used on the A4 saloon. At the rear, the only changes are to the style of the lights, though their outline remains the same.

Most of the changes lie under the modestly updated skin. Four engines are available at launch, three of which are new to the Cabriolet range, including the 2-litre turbo unit from the Golf GTi (197bhp), the charismatic 3.2-litre V6 petrol engine (251bhp) and Audi's superb 3-litre V6 TDI engine, itself not short of a few ponies at 229bhp and 396lb.ft of torque. The familiar 1.8-litre turbocharged four-pot sits at the start of the range, but the most promising is certainly the diesel variant. At least until an RS4 Cabriolet is announced...

It appears that the Quattro four-wheel drive system can be specified with any of the engines, and the line-up of gearboxes is extensive, with five and six speed manuals joined by a continuously variable transmission (with seven speeds while in manual mode) and a six-speed automatic. Elsewhere, the Cabriolet's four-link front and self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension has been extensively modified to include new elements, claimed to deliver a more sporting drive. To this end, the steering has also been reworked and the brakes uprated over the outgoing model.

First glance suggests that the Cabriolet should be good value for money, with alloy wheels, a power hood, electric windows all round and electronic climate control standard on all models. Audi has decided against going for the trendy coupe-cabriolet layout and instead makes do with its proven electro-hydraulically operated hood. The options list includes an acoustic hood, made from denser materials for sound absorption, which Audi claims reduces cabin noise to levels found in its saloon. Prices will be available closer to the car's November launch in the UK.

Shane O' Donoghue - 8 Sep 2005