2003 Audi A4 Cabriolet
08/03/2003
Shahed Hussain
The Audi A4 has established itself as a sporty and stylish alternative to the BMW 3-Series. The new A4 Cabriolet is a handsome addition to the A4 lineup. The Cabriolet is available in a FWD model only, but includes an innovative CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) that is nearly as responsive as a manual transmission, but requires no clutch. A cleverly engineered power top stores unobtrusively underneath a tonneau cover, and preserves the clean lines of the Cabriolet.
Engine
* 3.0L V-6 has usable midrange torque
* Low RPM acceleration a little weak
* Muted exhaust rumble
* Smooth, linear throttle response
Transmission
* Innovative CVT provides seamless acceleration
* Downshifts are accompanied by less lurching than a comparable torque converter automatic.
* The CVT downshifts have less delay than conventional automatics
* The CVT has less "creep" at idle than normal automatics
* The CVT maintains constant RPM under acceleration. Engine RPM maintained by the CVT depends on throttle position. Full throttle acceleration causes engine rpm to climb to the power peak.
* Initial acceleration from idle similar to manual transmission, and can be somewhat abrupt.
* The CVT can be switched to manual mode to simulate a 6-speed sequential manual. However, the automatic mode is so effective that the manual mode is mostly unnecessary.
Exterior
* Handsome, understated styling with top down. Top-up styling maintains an attractive coupe-like profile.
* Plastic tonneau cover preserves clean lines of the A4 with the top down
* Fully power actuated black fabric convertible top works flawlessly. No leaks or excess wind noise.
* Fabric top is insulated to minimize wind and road noise.
* Wind noise from the top is relatively low at speeds up to 90 mph. Above 90 mph, wind roar is noticeably loud.
* Fabric top has glass rear window with defroster.
Interior
* Rear seat legroom is minimal. Seat width reduced to make room for convertible mechanism. Seat is usable for short trips by 2 adults.
* Front leather seats are firm and supportive. Side bolsters keep the driver in place during cornering maneuvers.
* Power seat controls allow extensive adjustments
* Bright, high contrast electroluminescent gauges are mounted in circular pods. Major gauges have white markings & red needles
* Most other switches illuminated in red. Red illumination makes switches harder to read at night.
* One-touch power window switch lowers and raises all windows simultaneously.
* HVAC controls use confusing pictograms. Difficult to decipher without consulting manual.
* Bose stereo sounds superb. Smooth, pleasing frequency response, without overemphasis of bass or treble
* Stereo has 6-disc in-dash CD changer
* High quality wood trim adorns doors, dashboard, & transmission console
* Round HVAC vents mimic Audi TT interior
* Doors shut with a solid "thunk". Overall structural integrity is excellent for a convertible, but is no match for the A4 sedan.
* Window lowers slightly when door is opened, and raises to seal after door is closed.
* Superb overall material and build quality.
Ride & Handling
* Brakes have good feel & are easy to modulate. ABS and traction control are standard.
* Soft springs and damping provide a comfortable ride, but do not encourage enthusiastic driving
* Body flex noticeable over cratered roads. Mostly felt as shudders through steering column
* High steering effort at low speed. Steering does not have much power assist.
* High steering ratio makes A4 Cabriolet slow to respond to steering inputs.
Audi has preserved the traditionally clean styling of the A4 with the Cabriolet variant. The A4 Cabriolet is a more luxurious cruiser than the BMW 3-Series convertible. The unusual CVT adds to the appeal of this convertible A4, without the performance penalties of a conventional automatic transmission.
