It would be easy to overlook the new S4 Cabriolet in the bustling Audi booth, as the Le Mans and Nuvolari concepts drew crowds. But on the well-trodden path to the VW Golf exhibit was a red convertible sporting a 4.2-liter/340-horsepower V-8. The S4 Cabriolet is distinguished from its six-cylinder siblings by the large front air inlets, titanium surrounds encircling the Xenon headlamps, aluminum side mirror trim, dramatic tailpipes, and 18-inch wheels. The interior is also treated to subtle enhancements, such as special S gauge faces and three-spoke steering wheel. The formidable power is controlled by a six-speed manual or Tiptronic transmission, then routed through the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The result is a swift 0-60-mph time under six seconds. Handling is also elevated beyond a traditional A4 thanks to a sport-tuned, aluminum-intensive suspension.
