Only the top is soft in new Audi A5/S5 cabriolet

Audi is bucking the trend among luxury automakers who are churning out hardtop convertibles, as the new A5/S5 cabriolets that will reach these shores in October will be the old-fashioned, soft-top design. While other manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus and Volvo, among others, offer folding hard-tops, Audi says the compromise necessary to make room for the top and all its mechanical apparatus makes a soft-top the right choice for a small to mid-size convertible. The soft top is well insulated; even during a steady rain during our first drive of the car, the cabin was relatively quiet.

LA Auto Show Design Challenge theme: 'Sensing the Future: How Will Cars Interact with Us In 2029?'

The Los Angeles Auto Show has confirmed the theme for its annual Design Challenge. This year marks the eleventh time the contest has been held, and eight global design studios will each produce a concept to showcase a connected vehicle or interface system in response to the theme: 'Sensing the Future: How Will Cars Interact with Us In 2029?' The show's organizers have confirmed that BMW Group DesignworksUSA, Honda USA, Honda Japan, McLaren Automotive, Nissan, Peterbilt Motors, Qoros Auto, and SAIC Motor MG will all take part. "Los Angeles is one of the world's most dynamic cities constantly keeping its eye on the future of technological advancements that largely affect our daily lives," said Lisa Kaz, President of the LA Auto Show.

Jaguar XF Sportbrake: It’s Dynamic

Jaguar has released a new video of the XF Sportbrake highlighting its dynamic abilities as the Sportbrake nears Jaguar showrooms. Jaguar has learnt that a drip feed – within reason – of cars to come is a good way to keep interest piqued, and with the XF Sportbrake getting close to availability in Jaguar showrooms we get a new video highlighting its dynamic abilities. The XF Estate is a car Jaguar should have had from the start of the XF’s life (despite the lack of a 4WD XF at the time), but they’re working hard to make sure the Sportbrake gets market share at the end of the current XF’s life.