AUDI A4 Cabriolet Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

The third generation of the Audi A4 was launched in late 2004 and it was a heavily revised version of its previous generation. Some parts were unchanged, but it was assigned a new internal code, as a B7.

In mid 2000, Audi started to renew its lineup and the A4 was one of its biggest contenders in the compact-premium segment. The BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class were already facelifted, so the Ingolstadt-based car-maker decided that the 2004 A4 was a new generation instead of a refresh. The new Euro 4 norms were on the role for all the engines since the beginning of 2005, so along with the new engines, came new aesthetic changes.

The B7 Audi A4 was based on the same PL46 Volkswagen Group platform. It featured new headlights and taillights and the new, singleframe, grille. The car was offered as a sedan and station-wagon since 2004, and as a cabriolet since 2005.

The interior featured a new steering wheel and room for four adults. The rear seats had to be moved forward to make room for the soft-top compartment. That led to smaller leg-room for the rear passengers. The good thing was that the car could have been open and closed at a touch of a button, with speeds up to 30 kph (18.6 mph).

The A4 Cabriolet was available with a choice of gasoline and diesel engines, with a front or all-wheel-drive system. Depending on the version, it was fitted as standard with a 5- or 6-speed manual. A choice of automatic transmissions was offered and a CVT was on the options list for specific engines.

Sometimes, a car just poses a fast car even if it doesn't deliver, and sometimes it is just sexy. It was the case of the 2002 Audi A4 convertible, a car that looked good with the top up or down.

The A4 convertible came to replace the Audi 80 convertible that was taken out of the production line in 2000. It had some design inspiration taken from the Audi TT and also from the bigger Audi A6. But shared only a few body panel with the Audi A4 sedan and, since there was not A4 coupe, it was a loner in its family,

The headlights design was the same with its 4-door sibling, but the rear taillights were designed exclusively for the convertible version. It had a chromed rim around the four horizontal lines of the grille to emphasize a luxurious look. A thicker A-pillar also served as a security arch in the event of a roll-over crash.

Inside, the 2.6 meters (104.5") wheelbase offered enough room for four passengers. The care featured a straight dashboard to give the sensation of a wide car even if it wasn't. It had the same features as the A4 sedan, apart from the soft-top. That was electro-hydraulically operated, and it took 30 seconds to fold down or cover the cabin.

Under the hood, there were few engine options, including a turbodiesel, which was an unusual choice for a convertible.