The All New Audi TT Cabriolet

In the nine years or so that it was in production, the Audi Cabriolet acquired the status of a genuine classic. Now the time has finally come for its long-awaited successor. The new Audi has debuted at the IAA Frankfurt Motor. The production version will follow in Spring 2002.

The best got better

The exhibition model, which is 4.57 meters long and 1.77 meters wide, incorporates the classically elegant characteristics of the Audi Cabriolet in a new design, at the same time underlining the sporty image of the Audi brand.

One thing is already certain: the uncompromising dynamism of the V6 engines, developing up to 162 kW (220 bhp), and the aluminum suspension, coupled with the elegant simplicity of Audi design and exclusive equipment will also characterise the production version of the A4 Cabriolet - the perfect basis for a new kind of driving experience.

The double radiator grille, distinct, round wheel arches and the basic line of the silhouette identify the Cabriolet as a member of the A4 model family. Nonetheless, with its powerful proportions and the unique characteristics of the front and tail ends, it exudes an extremely individual aura. The windscreen frame with its brushed aluminum surface and the aluminum strip along the waistline additionally underline this individuality. There's no question about it: the new Cabriolet is the emotional spearhead of the sporty A4 model family.

Two powerful V6 engines provide the front-wheel-drive Audi A4 Cabriolet with the necessary propulsion: the new 162 kW (220 bhp) 3.0-litre unit with aluminum engine block and continuous camshaft adjustment and the 2.4-litre version boosted to 125 kW (170 bhp) will be available at market launch. With a peak torque of 300 or 230 Nm respectively, they make supreme traction from any speed as much fun as extremely swift acceleration from a standstill.

Four-link front suspension and trapezoidal-link rear suspension enable maximum steering precision and clearly defined handling with excellent cornering stability. Ride comfort also benefits from this ingenious axle design because a low unsprung mass also makes for a particularly sensitive response.

This concept is ideally complemented by the high torsional rigidity of the Cabriolet body. It is a full 112 percent more rigid than its predecessor - a quantum leap. This gain benefits both dynamic performance and comfort.

The car's safety also profits from the body's rigid structure. The Audi development engineers' objective was a level of stability and thus crash resistance that is equal in every way to that of the A4 saloon. This model has already demonstrated in impressive style just how effective its safety concept is in several crash tests, including the Euro NCAP test for which it was awarded four stars.

An active roll-over protection system provides additional safety if the car overturns. In this case, two protective bars, controlled by sensors, are triggered behind the rear seats within milliseconds. Together with the extremely rigid windscreen frame they help to preserve the necessary survival space both for the front and rear passengers if the car rolls over.

The Electronic Stability Program ESP with hydraulic brake assist provides for maximum active safety.

The Audi A4 Cabriolet has an electro-hydraulically operated hood with a heated glass rear window as standard equipment. Outstanding acoustic insulation and excellent suitability for winter conditions are attributes that can be taken for granted on the hood of an Audi Cabriolet.

The luggage compartment has also grown considerably compared with the previous model: thanks to its variable design it has a capacity of 315 litres when the hood is closed, and still a generous 246 litres with the roof down - a dimension that puts the Audi A4 Cabriolet streets ahead of key competitors.

The new Audi A4 Cabriolet also sets a benchmark in its class.