The engine range consists of two petrol options and one diesel. Tested here is the entry-level petrol - the 1.4 TFSI cylinder on demand (CoD) motor - which produces 138bhp and 184lb ft of torque, it zips from 0-62mph in 9.1 seconds, while being an exceptionally smooth powerplant, even when worked hard. Although no fire ball, it’s certainly brisk enough to have fun. Yet, clever fuel-saving cylinder cut-off technology also offers impressive efficiency, returning a combined 56.5mpg and emitting 114g/km of CO2.

A fabric roof stretched over a lightweight kinematic mechanism made of magnesium-steel opens the new Cabriolet to the elements fully automatically in a little under 18 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph at the touch of a button. Even when lowered, the roof rests in its own tray, thereby preserving a decent 275 litres of luggage capacity. With roof closed there’s 320 litres available, a substantial improvement on the old car’s 260 litres. Sport and S line spec cars also get a sound-absorbent acoustic soft top with three-layer inner padding, resulting in impressive isolation from general exterior and wind noise. Elsewhere refinement is good, with tyre roar at higher speeds being the only noticeable intrusion.

It might have larger exterior dimensions, but the A3 Cabriolet still doesn’t boast a huge cabin. There’s acceptable amounts of room up front, but as with the previous model, rear space is tight. Four adults will just about fit if the driver isn’t too tall, but those in the back will find their knees are pressed up against the front seats.

The new A3 Cabriolet’s interior has a high quality feel, with nice materials and well damped switchgear. There’s also the newest version of Audi's MMI infotainment system, featuring the same central control dial that Audi drivers will be familiar with, but the shortcut buttons have been replaced by raised toggle switches, which are more intuitive to operate.

Verdict:

It might not be cheap, but Audi’s new A3 Cabriolet is a considerable improvement over the previous generation; being better looking, faster and more fuel efficient than before.

 

 

 

 

Tech spec:

Audi A3 Cabriolet 1.4 TFSI Sport with CoD 140 PS
Engine: 1.4-litre turbo petrol
List Price: £27,015
Model as tested: £32,065
Power: 138bhp
Torque: 184lb ft
0-62mph: 9.1 seconds
Top speed: 135mph
Fuel economy: 56.5mpg
CO2 emissions: 114g/km