The new Audi A3 Cabriolet is not just a quick open-and-shut case. With times of only nine seconds to open and 11 seconds to close, it has one of the fastest-powered folding roofs in the world, but the little A3 is also a quiet, refined, premium package that is a delight to drive.
Audi knows a thing or two about open-top cars. Its A4 Cabriolet has a topless elegance and the TT Roadster is an example of how two-seaters in this class do not have to have cockpits that are challenged for space. And late this year a new A4/A5 Cabriolet will appear.
So it was logical to have a convertible in its smallest class. Dynamically and practically, the result is impressive. Audi claims that it “comfortably seats four occupants”, which is technically true, and it is certainly more than just a 2+2 seater.
Realistically, though, when talking adult sizes, it is a 2+1½, which will be fine for most buyers. The back seats are reasonably comfortable but limited by leg-room. However, if the front passenger gives up some space, an adult can easily sit behind.
Children are not likely to complain, though, because if mum has one of these, street cred will ratchet up. But if dad has one? I am not too sure, because despite a top-line engine pushing out 197bhp and a 143mph top speed, the A3’s persona is not in the naughty “bloke’s car” category.
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Initially available in Standard and Sport specifications, with a good choice of diesel and petrol power units, the A3 Cabriolet is remarkably quiet with the roof up (there is a special acoustic version that reduces interior noise) or down. High-speed cruising is almost buffet-free, thanks to an effective wind deflector, although when in place the rear seats cannot be occupied.
As a long-distance two-seat tourer, the car excels. The boot is large, with 260 litres of space, and the rear seats fold down, taking this to 674 litres. The hood has a cleverly designed space-saving folding mechanism.
The ride is outstandingly good. Audi has worked hard to improve the ride/ handling of the A3 range and it shows with this car. Handling is best described as “easy” – a little soft for some, perhaps, but it suits the overall tenor of the car and is complemented by a taut bodyshell. The Sport version and forthcoming S line have lowered suspension.
Nipping up and down winding mountain roads in southern France on a sunny winter’s afternoon, roof tucked away, heated seats on, heater blowing warm air, was a delight. And the up-market ambience of the car’s cabin is another plus.
I sampled the 1.8litre petrol TFSI-engined version with 158bhp, which can reach 62mph in 8.3 seconds and is good for 135mph, and the 197bhp 2.0litre, which makes some sporty noises when revved hard. It feels every bit as smooth as the 1.8 and is noticeably quicker.
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The 2.0litre TDI diesel is almost uncannily quiet for its type, makes 62mph in under ten seconds and has a combined fuel consumption of 53.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 139g/ km.
A great car for that long-distance European tour and definitely something to write home about. Transmission choice on most versions is six-speed manual or excellent paddle-shift twin-clutch S tronic.
The entry level A3 Cabriolet is the 1.9 TDI (£20,740) with a modest 104bhp, a lengthy 0-62mph time of 12.3 seconds and CO2 little better than that of the 2.0litre manual. Gearbox is five-speed manual only.
The only problem I have with the A3 (apart from its price) is that I cannot get to love its stubby looks. With the hood down there is something of a bath shape about it; not even a hip bath, just a Victorian tub. Others may see it differently, but I wanted the car to have a longer rear deck and to be better balanced, with more shapely flanks.
But if you like its aesthetics, the A3 is a very good experience, with far more to it than meets the sky.
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Specification
Car Audi A3 Cabriolet 2.0 TFSI
Engine 197bhp turbocharged petrol
Transmission Six-speed manual or S tronic double clutch
Performance 0-62mph 7.4sec, top speed 143mph
Fuel consumption 37.1mpg (combined)
CO2 emissions 182 g/km
Price £23,650
On sale May
Alternatives Ford Focus CC, Volkswagen Eos, BMW 1-Series