As the A5 Convertible's more sport-oriented brother, the S5 Convertible is designed to straddle the line between sensuous style and track-tuned performance. Based on the same platform that underpins the more plebeian A4 sedan and wagon, as well as the marginally more butch Q5, the S5 Convertible serves as the hedonist's flagship of the lineup. Essentially an open-top version of the S5 Coupe that was introduced for 2008, the S5 Convertible shares most of the hardtop's styling inside and out, not to mention its powertrains.

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Powered by a detuned version of the 4.2-liter V8 that also sees duty in the R8, the S5 Convertible puts out the same 354 horsepower and 325 lb-ft. of torque as the S5 Coupe.

Like the coupe, the S5 features its engine mounted further back in the engine bay -- behind the front wheels -- than is normally seen in Audis. Designed to help aid weight distribution, it also provides a more neutral handling feel.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard, as is Audi's latest quattro all-wheel-drive, while a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddles shows up on the options list.

Like all of Audi's "S" models, the S5 features a full complement of suspension and styling modifications designed to impart a more sporting look and feel. Unique front and rear fascias help the look outside, while the interior gets carbon fiber trim, special seats and a unique steering wheel. Larger brakes and a tightened and lowered suspension help the Z-rated tires deliver the uprated power to the street.

Unlike many competitors, the S5 Convertible gets a light-weight, insulated cloth folding top rather than a more complex, but more coupe-like, folding metal hardtop.

The S5 Cabriolet features active roll bars behind the seats, front airbags, knee airbags, seat-mounted side head/chest airbags, and ESP stability control. The S5 can also be ordered with an available head-level heating system built into the seats, enabling passengers to drive with the top down in less-than-ideal weather.

Sirius Satellite Radio connectivity comes standard, as does the 3G MMI (Multi Media Interface), which features 3D map graphics, traffic information, and a joystick-based user interface.

A performance-oriented Sports Rear Differential package with torque vectoring is available as an option.