Audi A3 Model History

Seen in the United States only as a hatchback from 2006 to 2013, a redesigned Audi A3 range introduced the entry-level line in a new light. In addition to a four-door sedan, open-top motoring enthusiasts were provided with a two-door cabriolet model. Debuting for the 2015 model year, Audi's entry-level, four-passenger convertible's key feature was the soft top roof that could be automatically opened or closed at the single push of a button in roughly 18 seconds. Powerplant choices for the 2015 Audi A3 Cabriolet consisted of two options. A 1.8-liter turbocharged FSI engine generating 170 horsepower was found on the front-wheel drive base model. A3 Cabriolets equipped with quattro all-wheel drive received a 220-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged FSI resulting in much improved performance. Acceleration for the A3 Cabriolet with quattro all-wheel drive roared from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.9 seconds. Not available on the A3 Cabriolet was a TDI diesel or the S3 performance level. The 2015 Audi A3 Cabriolet is also introduced with a generous standard equipment range featuring leather seating, dual-zone climate control and xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights. A rearview camera became standard for 2016 while the 2017 model year saw increased focus on safety and electronics that included the adoption of Audi's virtual cockpit to the A3 Cabriolet.