8 February 2011
Road test review: Top down, bottoms up
From the very moment you start the engine and push the folding roof button your world has instantly become a little more special. It's a wonder to behold the precision engineering involved as the roof folds back effortlessly, quietly and tidily back into its recess. The windows instantly and cleverly drop about 10cm at the start and raise back to the original position at the end, all ensuring it's unhindered progress.
Whilst this is impressive, certainly, I'm more interested in the smile it puts on your face as you think, hey this is a little bit 'flash'. Okay so this novelty may wear off over time, I think the halo effect of driving an Audi with the roof down will remain. It's always going to have a positive effect on both driver and passengers - so prepare to smile a bit more.
The last topless Audi experience I had was in central London in an A4. This however was a curiously different affair, as it seemed to induce spontaneous and unsolicited comments from cabbies, pedestrians, cyclists and the like. About 50% of these were 'nice car' and the other 50% are unrepeatable here. So if driving a cabriolet through town you need to be prepared for a bit of verbal from people around you - it goes with the territory.
The car itself is immensely competent with the 1.8L turbo-charged 118kW engine providing decent forward motivation. The auto gearbox was not the preferred and renowned DSG version but in fact something called S-tronic, which was okay but did not add to the driving experience. Cabin was typical Audi black trim, brushed aluminium with Alcantara and red night-time illuminations. Comfortable, sound, well made and efficient.
Design wise I think the high 'slab-sided' look with smaller windows and lower roofline presents a sleek and uniquely enticing vista. The S-line version providing additional touches, such as 18" wheels, sports suspension, front and rear bumper design, sports seats and a smattering of S-line trimmings.
All this adds to the smile and 'get noticed' factor. It induces a feel of success and achievement, which makes you think seriously about toasting the same when you arrive at any destination. So, cheers to Audi and bottoms-up to their top-down model.
Price as tested: $69,900
Test drive warnings
- Pack your sun cream and hat
- Be prepared for a bit of banter with onlookers
- No i-pod connectivity so bring CDs
- Letterbox boot entrance will challenge your shopping