Audi S5 Cabriolet

If you’ve listened to the radio in recent weeks, you’ve probably heard a number of hits from Ed Sheeran’s latest album. One of them, New Man, describes someone who apparently spent £500 on jeans, goes to the gym at least six times a week and wears boat shoes with no socks on his feet.

Whenever the song is played (and I fail to change station in time), I always picture Mr New Man driving something like an Audi S5 Cabriolet. It’s a car that, since it arrived in 2010, has suited those who want to be seen in something achingly attractive, while also having the power to beat lesser drivers away from the lights. Naturally, it’s been a success for Audi despite, being a niche model.

Seven years later, the Audi S5 Cabriolet has been given a revamp. Is it 2017’s ‘must have’ – or last year’s fashion accessory?

First impressions

At first glance, it’s easy to accuse Audi of giving its S5 Cabriolet a quick facelift and attempting to pass it off as a new model. But it’s based on an entirely new ‘MLB Evo’ platform, with a 14mm longer wheelbase and 47mm longer overall length – resulting in more space inside. This means two adults will fit comfortably in the rear, while the 380 litres of boot capacity is plenty for most buyers.

While nothing ground-breaking, the S5’s sharp lines, sculpted bonnet and aggressive stance ...