The Audi A3 Cabriolet 2014 is looking like an appealing option for next year’s summer jaunts around the British Isles and beyond. Joining the ever-expanding A3 series, the Cabriolet is a convertible that’s brimming with a style that’s just right for the warmer weather.
This sportier take on the Audi A3 hatchback has updated the convertible and, with a price range of between £25,790 and £32,420, it’s great for the more luxurious price range.
The convertible aspect of the car is especially impressive, with the fabric roof opening and shutting in a comfortable 20 seconds.
It can also be operated at speeds of up to 31mph for those times when you’re driving down the highway and the weather suddenly changes, and features a heated rear window to ensure that your windows remain demisted.
And, to keep the temperature to your liking, the Cabriolet also features heated fans in its neck rests to warm your nape and beat the cold air on a long drive.
With the roof up, Audi’s latest incarnation is extremely quiet, especially for a flat top, and has a cabin that bears a sleek, minimalistic look.
But, don’t let that fool you – this isn’t a car bereft of features. Embedded within the dashboard is an impressive array of gadgets, including an iPod dock, DAB radio, Bluetooth support and SD card functionality, keeping the Cabriolet well ahead of the game in terms of technology.
The dashboard also features a quietly cool 11-millimetre screen that boasts 3D graphics, Wi-Fi support for up to eight devices and a 13-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system all around the car, for those who enjoy high fidelity sound with their driving.
Smooth design and smoother handling
Aesthetically, the Cabriolet is one of the more interesting mixtures of styles on the market, merging the sleek design of the standard sports car with more jagged and chunky look that might seem a little off-putting at first.
But, stick with it and you’ll find a car that’s a joy to drive.
It has a smooth sense of handling, with plenty of grip and accurate steering allowing for a satisfyingly effortless experience. And, although there is still some noticeable vibration over rougher terrain, it’s minimal enough to barely detract from the steering.
The engine is a sprightly sort, too, reaching 0-62 in 9.1 seconds. And, with a combined fuel economy of 56.5mpg and C02 emissions of 114/km, it’s not exactly a hybrid, but is still saving you on fuel money when compared to the open tops of yesteryear.
But, really, the Cabriolet exists to lounge and be seen in, so performance really comes secondary to style, features and glamour. And, with the Cabriolet, Audi have effectively created a vehicle that will leave a stunning sense of style in its wake. At a starting price of £25,790 it’s not what you could call cheap but the quality is undoubted and you can always lease one. Audi have proven yet again that they can produce models which tick many boxes in the excellent category, marrying performance, build quality and style with fairly impressive economy.