Best premium four-seat convertible 2009 BMW 3 Series Convertible *Est. $44550
Best premium roadster 2009 Porsche Boxster *Est. $46600
Bargain four-seat convertible 2009 Mini Cooper convertible *Est. $23900
Best roadster value 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata *Est. $21750

See All Convertibles

2008 Audi A4 Cabriolet

*Est. $39,750 to $47,900

Quality build and material
Capable handling
Safety features
Available quattro all-wheel drive system
Good fuel economy
Trunk space

Fabric roof
Cramped rear seat
Base engine's automatic transmission low-end response

Where to Buy

See All Stores

Our Analysis

One of the main competitors of the Audi A4 convertible is the BMW 3 Series convertible with a retractable hardtop (*est. $43,500 to $64,950). While reviews indicate that the Audi models can't match the BMW's top-rated performance, the Audi A4 is praised for its impeccable build quality, its impressive interior design and its competent handling. Most Audi models have commendable performance (especially the V-8s), though the base four-cylinder is reported to be sluggish when equipped with an automatic and all-wheel drive (AWD). Some reviewers who are disappointed that the A4 still offers a cloth top recommend the comparably priced Volkswagen Eos (*est. $28,990 to $38,100) and Volvo C70 (*est. $39,240), both of which have standard retractable hardtops.

Many reviews group the Audi A4 Cabriolet with its sedan and wagon counterparts, but a few sites give convertible-specific reviews. ConsumerGuide.com and Edmunds.com offer the best general reviews and include the Audi A4 convertible in their evaluations. ConsumerGuide.com rates the Audi A4 line among its Best Buys. Kelley Blue Book reviews the A4 Cabriolet and offers summaries of pros and cons, along with general impressions based on driving the car. Cars.com names the Audi A4 a Best Bet, while CNet.com has a road-test review of the 2007 Audi A4 Cabriolet that emphasizes its technological features.

The 2008 Audi A4 Cabriolet (*est. $39,750 to $47,900) and its performance variants, the S4 (*est. $56,775 to $57,975) and RS4 convertibles (*est. $81,900) are smartly styled and satisfying to drive, according to reviews. The 2008 A4 Cabriolet comes with two engine choices: a 200-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder and 255-horsepower V-6. The base model is front-wheel drive, while quattro all-wheel drive is optional or standard with the V-6. The quattro-equipped S4 and top-performing RS4 are powered by a 4.2-liter V-8 with 340 and 420 horsepower, respectively.

Where To Buy

Our Sources

1. ConsumerGuide.com

ConsumerGuide.com gives the Audi A4 a Best Buy rating and describes the model lineup as "solid, sophisticated premium compacts that match anything in their class." Testers, who achieve 16 mpg with mostly city driving, note that while the 3.2-liter V-6 is strong, its power delivery is non-linear.

Review: 2008 Audi A4 Full Review, Editors of ConsumerGuide.com, May 28, 2008

2. Edmunds.com

This comprehensive summary of the Audi A4 comments on all body styles, including the convertible. The A4 is commended for its price, interior, and "engaging personality," but editors say the 2.0T engine suffers from low torque while the 255-horsepower V-6 is "outclassed" by competitors with standard horsepower over 300. A separate review covers the Audi S4.

Review: 2008 Audi A4 Review, Editors of Edmunds.com

3. Kelley Blue Book

Though editors recommend the A4 Cabriolet as a "viable alternative to the omnipresent BMW 3 Series," the A4 does not earn a Recommended designation by Kelley Blue Book. Editors say the A4's styling and performance may not suit enthusiasts, who might opt for a rear-drive car instead.

Review: 2008 Audi A4 Two-door 2.0T Cabriolet Convertible Review, Editors of Kelley Blue Book

4. Car and Driver Details/Subscribe

Car and Driver's Buying Guide provides a "capsule review" of the Audi A4 with links to photos, prices, specs and more. Editors note that the convertible versions are heavier and slower than their sedan counterparts, and advise shoppers to "think twice before opting for the more thirsty and not much quicker V-6."

Review: 2008 Audi A4 Cabriolet, Editors of Car and Driver

5. Car and Driver Details/Subscribe

In this 2007 comprehensive comparison test, five near-luxury European convertibles are exhaustively reviewed. The first-place finisher is the BMW 328i, followed by the Audi A4 Cabriolet. With a zero to 60 mph time of 7.1 seconds from its 200-horsepower engine, the A4's acceleration is called "tepid," but the Audi is top rated on the skid pad and in the lane-change test.

Review: 2007 VW Eos vs. Audi A4, BMW 328i, Volvo C70, Saab 9-3, Tony Swan, July 2007

6. Cars.com

Cars.com includes the Audi A4 on its Best Bet list based on a summary of the car's pros and cons. The review claims the A4's available "ultrasmooth" continuously variable transmission (CVT) works "masterfully and subtly" but also notes its low-speed passing maneuvers "sometimes yield a shortfall of response."

Review: 2008 Audi A4 Review, Editors of Cars.com, Aug. 6, 2007

7. CNET

Although this test-drive review focuses on a 2007 Audi A4, there are no significant changes for the 2008 model. Writer Kevin Massey expresses disappointment with the A4's navigation system but is pleased with the car's performance and variable cargo bay.

Review: 2007 Audi A4 Cabriolet 2.0T Quattro, Kevin Massey, Aug. 30, 2007

8. ForbesAutos.com

This ForbesAutos.com article lists 10 convertibles that "present the fewest compromises to achieve top-down fun," according to writer Jim Gorzelany. The Audi A4/S4/RS4 convertibles are included and noted for their comfortable rear seats and cargo space.

Review: Top 10 Most Practical Convertibles, Jim Gorzelany, May 13, 2008

9. IntelliChoice.com

IntelliChoice.com bases its picks in large part on practical aspects like long-term costs and predicted resale value. In the Luxury Convertible category, the Audi A4 is chosen best overall value of the year.

Review: Best Overall Values of the Year for 2008: Convertible Class, Editors of IntelliChoice.com