What's New for 2014

Introduction

Audi has turned its A, S, and RS lineups into the automotive equivalent of new iPhone introductions: Every year, you can expect a little more from a new model. For the 2014 Audi RS 5, this means a new soft-top convertible model that joins the existing coupe.

Like the coupe, the RS 5 convertible features a 4.2-liter V8 engine making 450 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. That power is transferred to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission.

Audi says the RS 5 Cabriolet will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, about a half-second slower than the coupe. That's not bad, considering that the convertible weighs nearly 400 pounds more than the coupe. Audi claims fuel economy of 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined.

The convertible doesn't require much practical sacrifice either. Its soft top opens in 15 seconds and closes in 17 seconds at speeds of up to 30 mph. The 50/50 split-folding rear seats offer a trunk pass-through, and with 11.3 cubic feet of trunk volume with the top down, the convertible only gives up about 1 cubic foot to the coupe (and actually offers more -- 13.4 cubes -- with the top raised). Outside, the RS 5 uses adaptive xenon headlights with surrounding LED light strips and black honeycomb grilles for a purposeful stance and style.

The 2014 Audi RS 5 Cabriolet goes on sale this spring. Audi hasn't announced pricing, but we expect the convertible to command at least a $10,000 premium over the coupe, which starts at around $70,000. Check back for a full review of the RS 5 Cabriolet, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it becomes available.