AUDI A3 Cabriolet Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

After three years on the market, Audi introduced a facelifted version for its compact-segment contender, the A3, and the Cabriolet version received more features.

There was an increased demand for convertibles and, even though it wasn't a big market, it was essential to a brand image, especially for a premium carmaker. With its image still damaged by the Dieselgate, Audi tried to make a good impression and revived the A3 lineup introducing cleaner engines.

Audi installed new LED signature daytime running lights inside the standard Xenon headlights. The Matrix LED headlamps were offered as an option for the first time in the A3 lineup. Their sharp design with angular lines stood on the sides of the massive, singleframe grille. Its body-colored door-mirrors were offered as silver on the S-line package. In the back, the twin-exhausts with round tips completed the car's premium status.

Inside, the A3 Cabriolet featured a 2+2 interior, with limited legroom for the rear passengers due to its 2.6 m (102.2") wheelbase. There was a new MMI (Multi Media Infotainment) unit with a 7" screen that popped-up from the dashboard. Depending on the options, the A3 offered a cloth or leather-clad interior.

The carmaker installed a wide choice of powertrains for the A3 Cabriolet. It started with a 116 hp 1.4-liter gasoline engine and went all the way up to a 190 hp 2.0-liter TFSI unit. Despite the Dieselgate scandal, Audi offered two turbo-diesel versions for the A3 Cabriolet. A front or all-wheel-drive system was available for selected engines.

In the third generation of the A3 lineup, there was also the second generation of the Cabriolet version. It featured a larger trunk and an important, technological, evolution over its predecessor.

One of the biggest problems for a cabriolet is the rear-seat room. Most of the convertibles are 2+2 where the +2 needs to be very small children. The second generation of the A3 convertible was the answer for a true 2+2 seating configuration.

The bodywork was very light for an open-top vehicle. In the 1.4-TFSI version, the car weighed just 1345 kg (2965.2 lb). That was lighter than some of the regular A3 versions and around 60 kg (132.2 lb) less than its predecessor. This performance was achieved due to the extensive use of the aluminum for the hood, front subframe, and the crash-absorber front profile. The car was longer than its predecessor and it was available with two canvas tops, with two or three layers. It was opened and closed in 18 seconds at speeds up to 50 kph (31 mph).

The A3 Cabriolet was available in three trim levels: Attraction, Ambition, and Ambiente. A long options list granted access to cloth, leather, or Alcantara upholstery. The MMI (Multi Media Information) system featured a 7” display that extended vertically from the dashboard. It was controlled via a touch-sensitive pad on top of a rotary knob between the front seats. Due to its longer, 2.6m (102.3”) wheelbase, there was enough room for the rear passengers.

At the launch, the A3 Cabriolet was available with a choice of three engines: two gasoline and one diesel. All of them featured turbocharging and direct injection, which were mated with manual or automatic transmission. The all-wheel-drive system was offered as an option.

The second generation of the Audi A3 was introduced in 2003. In 2008, along with the facelift, it introduced the open-top version for the car. It was a well-expected addition but at the wrong time.

Audi thought that it had enough convertible cars on the market. It already had the TT Roadster and the A4 Cabriolet. But there was a request for compact-sized cabriolet versions and the A3 seemed to be just right. Unfortunately, the 2008 financial crisis hit the automotive industry. But the A3 Cabriolet still managed to go on the market.

Based on a reinforced platform of the regular Audi A3, the Cabriolet version featured the same dimensions and the same design up to the A-pillars with the 3-door version. The beltline was kept the same but the trunk had to be modified. The taillights were different as well. The third stop-light was enclosed in the trunk-lid.

Inside, the car took some inspiration from the TT model, featuring similar four-vents and knee-pads on the center console. The instrument cluster featured red needles on a black background. The new MMI infotainment system was a carry-over from larger Audi sedans.

For the drivetrain, the A3 Cabriolet featured diesel and gasoline engines ranged between 106 hp and 200 hp. For the transmission, it was fitted as standard with 5- or 6-speed manual, or with the new S-Tronic (dual-clutch) gearbox with 6 gears.