Audi is stepping up its efforts to bring more choices to buyers of the new A3 Cabriolet in the UK by adding new versions of the car to its range. The highlights are a new entry-level 1.6-liter TDI, the option of quattro all-wheel drive for the existing 1.8-liter TFSI and wider availability of S tronic twin-clutch transmission, with all models to arrive in customer hands this summer.
The new A3 1.6 TDI produces 110PS (109bhp) and 253Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque, and is paired exclusively to a six-speed manual gearbox completing the sprint to 62mph (100km/h) in 11.4 seconds and reaching a top speed of 124mph (200km/h).
It’s the most frugal model in the cabriolet line-up returning up to 72.4mpg UK in the combined cycle test with CO2 emissions of 104g/km.
Prices for the A3 1.6 TDI Cabriolet start from £25,890 OTR for the SE rising to £29,265 OTR for S line. All models are fitted as standard with MMI Radio with DAB digital reception and a powered retractable monitor, air conditioning or climate control, light and rain sensors and an automatic fabric hood that retracts in under 18 seconds.
The new A3 1.8 TFSI quattro convertible receives a 30Nm (22 lb-ft) bump in peak torque over the front-wheel drive model at 280Nm (206 lb-ft), while keeping the same output figure of 180PS (178bhp).
Along with the better traction provided by the all-wheel drive system, it helps reduce sprint time to 62mph (100km/h) from 7.8 to 7.6 seconds, compared to the FWD model. The car’s top speed is 145mph (234km/h), and combined fuel economy stands at 42.8mpg UK with CO2 emissions of 154g/km
Finally, availability of Audi’s S tronic dual-clutch transmission that costs £1,480 has been extended to the 1.4 TFSI model with Cylinder on Demand technology and to the 150PS (148bhp) 2.0 TDI.
By John Halas
PHOTO GALLERY
