There are four petrol engines to choose from. There's a 161bhp turbocharged 1.8, a 2.0 turbo with 197bhp, a 3.2 V6 with 252bhp and there's a 339bhp 4.2 V8 in the S4. Diesel buyers can have a 138bhp 2.0-litre unit and a 230bhp 3.0 V6. Performance ranges from brisk to brutal, but we'd recommend the 2.0-litre petrol.

Both front- and four-wheel-drive versions of the cabriolet grip well and turn crisply into corners, but the steering is light and the A4 isn't as much fun as rivals such as the BMW 3 Series coupe-cabriolet. There's a slightly firm edge to the A4's ride, but it stays comfortable and the body doesn't flex too much over bumps.

A well made, triple-layer hood helps the A4 to be one of the most refined soft-tops, and wind and road noise with the roof up is kept to a minimum. With it lowered, things are still civilised, and there’s little buffeting in the cabin. Engine noise is well suppressed.

You could never call the A4 Cabrio cheap, but it's competitive with its other German rivals, and resale values for a much in-demand car are superb. Running costs aren't too bad, either. Most of the engines offer competitive fuel economy figures and insurance groupings.

The A4 displays the kind of impeccable build quality for which Audi has become famous. The hood is sturdy and the cabin materials top-notch, while all controls work with satisfying precision. Mechanicals borrowed from the saloon are proven and shouldn't let you down.

Safety equipment is comprehensive with an electronic stability control system and anti-lock brakes as standard, along with twin front and side airbags. A strengthened windscreen surround and solid bars that pop up behind the rear headrests are aimed at limiting injuries should the car roll. A standard-fit alarm and deadlocks guard against theft.

The Cabrio has a clear dash and only the mass of climate control switches is rather distracting. The driver’s seat is supportive and has a fine range of adjustment, while two-way steering-wheel movement makes it easy to get comfortable. The hood can be raised or lowered on the move below 19mph.

Space up-front is plentiful, and there’s decent legroom for two in the rear and plenty of headroom with the roof up. The boot is a good shape, but is shallow with the hood down. Top up, a lever pushes the roof container out of the way to create much more space for bags.

The A4 Cabrio is an upmarket car and so is kitted out appropriately. Equipment is generous, starting with an electric hood that folds at the touch of a button five seconds faster than before. Alloy wheels, climate control, driver and passenger airbags, and stability control are all standard.