Auto Shows

2001 Frankfurt Auto Show

 

Advertisement

More in Auto Shows

Auto Shows Main Page
Frankfurt Main Landing
2001 Frankfurt Landing
Straightline from Frankfurt
2001 Frankfurt Photo Gallery
Auto Shows Site Map

Pictures

Subtle changes to the Cabriolet's front styling differentiate the sportiest of A4s from the sedan and wagon.
The richly-trimmed cabin is designed using themes from the A4 and the TT.
The top folds into a well behind the rear seat, leaving a smooth rear deck elegantly trimmed with aluminum.
The triple-layer top raises and lowers in about 30 seconds and comes only in black, blue or red.

2002 Audi A4 Cabriolet

STORY TOOLS
Print thisPrint this Save thisSave this Digg this storyDigg this
Email thisEmail this Most PopularMost popular del.icio.usdel.icio.us

What is it?
2002 Audi A4 Cabriolet 3.0

What's special about it?
Essentially a replacement for the old 90-based Cabriolet last sold in America in 1998, the A4 Cabriolet is a credible competitor for the BMW 3 Series Convertible.

Two versions are available, both powered by a 220-horsepower aluminum-block 3.0-liter V6. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is available on front-wheel-drive models, while quattro versions get the traditional five-speed Tiptronic automanual. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and when equipped with the row 'em yourself gearbox, the A4 Cabriolet 3.0 can reach 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds.

Audi lowered the aluminum four-link front and trapezoidal-link independent rear suspension by 20 mm for superior handling, and revised steering provides improved response and feel over the A4 sedan and wagon. Sixteen-inch wheels are standard, shod in 215/55 tires.

The A4 Cabriolet gets a unique interior treatment, with round gauge housings and cylindrical air vents. Call it a mix of standard A4 and Audi TT. With decent rear legroom and an 11.2 cubic-foot trunk that can even swallow a set of golf clubs thanks to a wide rear-seat pass-through, the newest droptop Audi can honestly carry four adults for a weekend getaway.

An active rollover protection system, which deploys from behind the rear-seat headrests, will save occupants' melons if the weekend fun goes overboard. Other safety equipment includes Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), as well as side airbags that deploy from the sides of the front seats but are designed to protect the head also. ISO-FIX child seat anchors in all three rear seat positions make it safe to bring the kids along for the ride.

A glass rear window with defroster makes it easier to see rearward in cold or inclement weather, the only times the fully automatic fabric roof should be erected. The triple-layer top, which rises and drops in about 30 seconds, comes in black, blue or red ... odd that a tan or caramel isn't offered.

The A4 Cabriolet 3.0 comes well equipped with automatic climate control, power front seats, a driver information system and electric windows that can be operated using a single control. Options include xenon headlights, a wind deflector and 17-inch wheels with 235/45 tires. Leather or leather and Alcantara upholstery are available.

Why should you care?
Ubiquitous could describe the state of BMW 3 Series convertible ownership in Beverly Hills and Boca Raton. If Audi's TT Roadster, with just two seats, and the Mercedes-Benz CLK weren't viable alternatives, and the slow-selling Volvo C70 doesn't twist your crank, maybe the A4 Cabriolet is just what the fun doctor ordered. — Christian Wardlaw