2017 Audi S5 Cabriolet - first spy pictures

The new Audi S5 Cabriolet has been spotted testing for the first time ahead of its expected launch next year.

The 2017 S5 Cabriolet has now been revealed

The drop-top high-performance variant of the Audi A5 is likely to get the same 349bhp 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged petrol engine from the S4, which produces 369lb ft of torque.

The new S5 Sportback will also get that engine when it arrives next year. An S5 Coupe is expected too, andd the S5 Cabriolet will launch after those models.

2017 Audi A5 Sportback and S5 Sportback shown at Paris motor show 

The next-generation S5 variants are expected to swap to five-link suspension set-ups and be lighter than their predecessors, so the S5 Cabriolet will likely shed some of its current 1880kg weight.

It will also benefit from an upgraded interior, featuring Audi's latest infotainment system and the Virtual Cockpit instrument panel.

The new engine will see power and torque increase from the 328bhp and 327lb ft available with the outgoing model's supercharged 3.0-litre V6, but expect prices for the S5 Cabriolet to increase over the model it replaces, which is currently priced from £47,045. 

A hotter RS5 Cabriolet could also join the range at some point.