Audi A4 B7 Convertible (2006–2009) Review: A Stylish Four-Seat Drop-Top You’ll Actually Want to Use

I’ve always had a soft spot for the Audi A4 B7 Convertible. It’s one of those cars that doesn’t shout, yet you notice it anyway—clean surfacing, tidy proportions, and a cabin that still smells faintly of German leather even after a decade or more. On a breezy Saturday, I took a well-kept 3.2 quattro out of town and, honestly, I wasn’t sure at first if the soft-top life was for me. By the first cloverleaf, top down, V6 humming, I was sold. This luxury convertible earns its garage space.

Why the Audi A4 B7 Convertible Still Works in 2025

Launched in the twilight of the analog era, the Audi A4 Cabriolet (B7, 2006–2009) blended classic soft-top glamour with everyday usability. It wasn’t the flashiest luxury SUV—sorry, wrong segment—or the most extroverted boulevard cruiser. Instead, it was the thinking person’s premium convertible. Elegant, restrained, usable. Perfect for city commutes with a little coastal detour on the way home.

Engines, Performance, and Everyday Drivability

I’ve driven both the 2.0T and the 3.2 V6 versions of the Audi A4 B7 Convertible, and they have distinct personalities. The 2.0T feels lighter on its feet—eager, boosted, and more efficient. The 3.2 V6 is silkier and sounds sweeter at 4,000 rpm, especially with the top down and a tunnel nearby (casual suggestion; definitely not a requirement).

• 2.0T FSI (approx. 200 hp, 207 lb-ft): 0–60 mph in the low-7s with quattro; combined economy around 23–26 mpg (US), depending on spec and driving style.
• 3.2 FSI V6 (approx. 255 hp, 243 lb-ft): 0–60 mph around 6.8–7.0 seconds; combined economy typically 20–22 mpg (US).
• Drivetrains: Front-drive cars got a CVT (Multitronic); quattro variants used a 6-speed manual or 6-speed Tiptronic auto (my pick for durability is the manual or the Tiptronic quattro).

Steering is on the calmer side—less darty than a BMW of the era—but it suits the car. The ride, especially on 17s, is supple enough that coffee stays in the cup around town. On rough roads, I noticed a hint of scuttle shake, but nothing that ruined the conversation. Top up, it’s quiet enough to hear your kids arguing in the back about who gets the aux cable.

Cabin, Comfort, and Tech: Subtle Luxury That’s Aged Gracefully

Slide in and the interior still feels premium: high-quality leather, real aluminum trim, clear instruments. The nav is old-school (RNS-E), the screen’s petite by today’s standards, and Bluetooth pairing can be fiddly. But the seats are long-distance good and the driving position is spot on for hour-long commutes or Alpine road trips you keep meaning to take.

• Four adult seats are realistic for short trips; legroom in the back is fine for kids and patient friends.
• Soft-top operation is fully electric and smoothly executed; top-down wind buffeting is well controlled with the wind deflector fitted.
• Trunk space is decent with the roof up; with the top stowed, it’s “weekend bag + jacket” territory. Pack like a minimalist and you’ll be fine.

Feature Highlights in the Audi A4 B7 Convertible

• Quattro all-wheel drive availability for all-season confidence
• Heated leather seats and available neck-level heating in some markets
• Quality soft top with effective insulation and quick operation
• Optional factory navigation (RNS-E) with decent sound for the era
• Smooth 6-speed manual or durable Tiptronic auto on quattro cars

Audi A4 B7 Convertible vs. Rivals: How It Stacks Up

Ownership Notes: What to Watch For on a Used Audi A4 B7 Convertible

A few owners mentioned to me—and I’ve seen it myself—that a well-maintained example is a delight. A neglected one? Not so much. Here’s the short list I keep on my phone when shopping:

• 2.0T FSI: Check the high-pressure fuel pump cam follower wear, PCV and diverter valve issues, and potential oil consumption. Coil packs are cheap and common fixes.
• 3.2 FSI: Listen for timing chain rattle on cold start; carbon build-up on intake valves can sap performance if left unchecked.
• Transmissions: The FWD CVT (Multitronic) is smooth but can be fragile if abused or under-serviced. Quattro manual or Tiptronic tend to be more robust.
• Soft top: Inspect for hydraulic leaks, latch microswitch gremlins, and rear window bonding. Make sure the roof cycles cleanly—twice.
• Chassis and trim: Front control arm bushings, window regulators, and glovebox hinges are known wear items. None are deal-breakers if you budget appropriately.
• Service history: Oil changes with proper spec, timing service receipts, and top mechanism maintenance are worth their weight in… well, dry carpets.

Audi A4 B7 Convertible Accessories: Protecting a Good Interior

If you’re buying, protect that tidy cabin from beach sand, snow slush, and the occasional coffee rebellion. I’ve used tailored floor mats on my press cars and personal cars for years—they make cleanup a five-minute job instead of an afternoon chore.

For fitted options made specifically for the A4 Cabriolet, see:

• Audi mats and accessories
• A4 range
• A4 B7 Convertible specific fitments

Two I’ve tried that fit well and don’t slide around:

Real-World Moments With the Audi A4 B7 Convertible

One late-summer evening, I rolled into a downtown valet line—top down, sunset doing its Instagram thing. The attendant clocked the four rings, smiled, and parked it right up front. On the way home, two friends in the back were chatting away, wind deflector up, heat on their feet. Comfortable, composed, and just special enough. That’s the A4 B7 Cabriolet’s trick.

Conclusion: The Audi A4 B7 Convertible Remains a Sweet-Spot Choice

The Audi A4 B7 Convertible (2006–2009) isn’t chasing lap times or influencer attention. It’s about the good stuff: elegant looks, real-world comfort, and the option of quattro for all-weather confidence. Keep an eye on maintenance history and you’ll have a premium drop-top that still feels right for a Miami night out or a crisp mountain morning. In an era of oversized everything, the A4 Cabriolet’s understated charm feels refreshingly grown-up.

FAQ: Audi A4 B7 Convertible (2006–2009)

• Is the Audi A4 B7 Convertible a good car? Yes—if you value refinement, usable rear seats, and understated style. The 2.0T is efficient and lively; the 3.2 is smoother and quicker.
• Is the A4 B7 reliable? With proper maintenance, generally yes. Prioritize cars with documented services. Watch for 2.0T cam follower/PCV issues, and 3.2 timing chain and carbon concerns.
• How much horsepower does a 2006 A4 B7 have? Typically 200 hp (2.0T) or about 255 hp (3.2 V6). Expect 0–60 mph between ~6.8 and 7.5 seconds depending on drivetrain.
• Quattro or FWD—what should I pick? Quattro for four-season traction and stronger transmissions (manual/Tiptronic). FWD CVT is smoother but needs careful, regular servicing.
• What years cover the B7 A4 Convertible? 2006–2009 for the B7 Cabriolet.