A powerful, attractive-sounding eight-cylinder engine generating 253 kW (344 bhp) and 410 Newton-metres, the latest generation of quattro permanent four-wheel drive and a design that creates an air of restrained dynamism: these are the hallmark characteristics of the new- Audi S4 Cabriolet. The open-top four-seater crosses the genes of an open sports car with those of an elegant cruiser – a car that offers fascination for all the senses. The front end, with the single-frame radiator grille, is visible evidence of the new generation of the S4 Cabriolet. Like the S4 saloon, the Cabriolet features the S-specific grid pattern and the redesigned standard xenon headlights. The bumpers with large air inlets, the aluminium-look casings for the exterior mirrors, the redesigned rear lights and the four oval tailpipes are the distinguishing visual features of the S4 Cabriolet. The Audi S4 Cabriolet is fitted with 18-inch cast aluminium wheels of S design with 235/40 R1 8 tyres. Inside, too, the S4 Cabriolet differs in appearance from its brothers. The instrument cluster has the grey dials that are characteristic of S models and special needles. The electrically adjustable sports seats with a combined leather/Alcantara upholstery are outstandingly comfortable even over long distances. The seats come with an adjustable thigh support and electrically adjustable lumbar support as standard. The new generation of steering wheels now also features in the Audi S4 Cabriolet, with the impact absorber echoing the design of the single-frame radiator grille. The Audi S4 Cabriolet is propelled by a 253 kW (344 bhp) eight-cylinder engine. Its maximum power output is in the region of 7,000 rpm. The 4.2-litre engine delivers a hefty 410 Newton-metres of torque to the crankshaft at an engine speed of 3,500 rpm. Thanks to such a superior power flow from the substantial displacement, this naturally aspirated engine acquires an air of supreme confidence. Its spontaneous response to every movement of the accelerator and its astonishingly free-revving nature are impressive. The deep, sporty sound of the exhaust system is very immediate, but never over-assertive. The Audi S4 Cabriolet sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.9 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h, at which point the governor cuts in smoothly. Surprisingly, the overall length of the eight-cylinder engine is incomparably short at just 464 millimetres. Audi's engine developers achieved this compactness by means of a chain drive for the camshafts and auxiliaries. The weight is also extremely low for an engine with eight cylinders, at only 195 kilograms. This has definite advantages in terms of the car’s weight distribution and road dynamics. The engine power passes via a precision-shift 6-speed gearbox. The selector mechanism is decoupled, largely preventing vibrations and load-reversal movements from being transmitted to the gear lever. The optional extra of 6-speed tiptronic with Dynamic Shift Program, an additional Sport program and shift paddles on the steering wheel unites sportiness with the convenience of an automatic transmission. Whether relaxed cruising or open-top driving, the Audi S4 Cabriolet permits both.