Based on the more humdrum A3 hatch that kicks off the Audi range, the Cabriolet brings a premium badge to a four-door drop-top market dominated by the likes of the more affordable Volkswagen Eos and Holden Astra. But its biggest competition - and a more direct match on price - will be the BMW 1 Series Convertible.
The two-model Audi line-up starts at $49,900 for the model we’ve tested here and stretches to $57,505, while the three-model BMW range starts at $52,900 and peaks at $79,644.
Instead of the folding hard-top so popular these days, the Audi Cabriolet gets a fabric crown that takes just 10 seconds to fold into its truncated rump. The roof’s journey back to its starting position takes an extra five seconds and can be done at speeds up to 25kmh.
That the A3 Cabriolet has a modicum of practicality is something of a revelation for a vehicle category that typically puts style well ahead of substance. Even the back seats are accommodating for people with legs, something not all soft-tops can claim.
Like most drop-tops, Audi’s newcomer works best with the roof removed, something that needs a very un-21st century manual unclipping of the mechanism. That is, unless you splash out another $1377 for the full electric roof operation that brings a more civilised single button system most would expect when paying $50,000 for a car.
Fortunately, the A3’s compact dimensions make it easy to drive around town. At a smidge more than 4.2 metres, the Cabriolet is shorter than most small cars, a great help when it comes to parking in tight spots.
The Cabriolet does without Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, driving only the front wheels. The car’s electronics are called into action only to halt a skid on steep or slippery hills. Steering is well-weighted and accurate, adding to the lithe cornering-feel of the solid body, which does a good job resisting flexing. Audi’s 16-inch Michelin tyres grip well enough, although on those smoother bitumen corners they can let out a mild squeal if you approach too quickly.
Back in its comfort zone, it’s relaxed and enjoyable. The A3 is a flexible performer that meshes proficiently with the gearbox without the need for high engine revs, thanks to the turbo. Gear shifts are so smooth, only the changes in engine note and speed alert the driver.
The A3 will reach 100kmh in eight seconds for those chasing maximum performance. Driven with such enthusiasm, it’s easy to exceed the claimed average fuel consumption of 7.6 litres/100km but with more restraint, the Audi is impressively frugal.
Some noteworthy exclusions: You’ll be sitting on cloth trim, which at least promises to soak up less heat than the leather pews that come as part of a $2500 option pack.
Other than large door pockets and a decent glovebox, there’s little useful interior storage room, with the large cupholder covered by the folding centre arm rest.
It’s not enough to detract from what is a sensible, yet alluring convertible with few chinks in its armour. Surprising space and attention to detail are the headline acts but they’re backed up by fun and engaging driving dynamics that team well with the talented four-cylinder engine.
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