This summer may have been a wash-out, but here is a reason to look forward to the next one.
These exclusive spy shots show the Audi A3 Cabriolet on the road for the first time and it will be here in less than 12 months. As we revealed in Issue 959, the manufacturer has long harboured plans for a compact drop-top version of its popular executive hatchback and as our scoop pictures confirm, it appears that the newcomer is nearly ready to roll.
Spied undergoing testing in Ger*many, the model also shows a facelift for the entire A3 range, with a fresh bonnet, narrower headlights and a more imposing grille, complete with a jutting lower spoiler. At the rear, there are new A5-style tail-lamps, too.
Going up against the forthcoming BMW 1-Series Convertible and new MINI Convertible, the soft-top will offer a more affordable alternative to Audis A4 Cabriolet. And as with that car, it shuns the current trend for folding metal roofs, with a high-quality canvas hood. As Claus Haverkamp, Audis head of body structure development, told Auto Express in May: Too many compromises are needed with folding metal roofs. They impact on styling and packaging, and we can get excellent refinement anyway with multi-layered fabric hoods.
Our pictures show the three-doors profile is retained, with its rakish rear window. But the electrically operated soft-top folds flat behind the rear seats to reveal twin roll-over hoops.
Under the bonnet, the Cabriolet will feature the firms new 1.4-litre TFSI engine, while a flagship car gets the 2.0 turbo from VWs Golf GTI. Diesel options will include a new 140bhp 2.0-litre TDI. The A3 drop-top will debut at Marchs Geneva Motor Show, and is tipped to cost £18,500.
