Audi's A3 Cabriolet is the latest recipient of a downsized engine in the pursuit of fuel economy and reduced emissions. It is claimed to offer better performance too and comes at a lower price.
Power comes from a 1.2-litre TFSI motor that replaces the 1.6-litre MPI engine in the range. Although it lacks displacement, a combination of turbocharging and direct fuel injection allows it to match the 1.6 for power (104bhp) and beat it for torque (129- compared to 109lb.ft). It is only available with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Audi claims a 0-62mph time of 12.2 seconds and a top speed of 118mph; both better than the 1.6-litre A3 Cabriolet's figures. Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 49.6mpg and CO2 emissions are 132g/km, representing improvements of 9.3mpg and 36g/km over the old model.
Three trim levels are offered: standard, Sport and S line. Standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels, a single CD radio and a semi-automatic powered hood (it requires manual latching to the windscreen header rail). A more insulating, fully automatic hood comes with the Sport version along with an improved sound system and 17-inch alloys. For the S line cabriolet the wheels are an inch larger and there is a body kit as well as part leather seats.
Prices start at £19,985, which undercuts the old Cabriolet 1.6 MPI by £490. The first cars with the new engine will be delivered in late May.
John Lambert - 29 Mar 2010
