A3 Cabrio from under $50K

AUDI will bring the new A3 Cabriolet to the Australian market in August, with prices starting from $49,990 for the 118kW 1.8-litre turbo model – $6500 more than the better-equipped A3 hatchback but some $25,000 less than the similarly-engined A4 Cabriolet.

And the more powerful 147kW 2.0-litre turbo with a six-speed manual gearbox is priced from $54,900 (plus $2600 for the S tronic auto), which is $14,000 less than the Audi TT with the same engine and gearbox, though $5000 more than the parent company’s similar Volkswagen Eos.

An even less expensive 1.6-litre non-turbo A3 Cabriolet is slated for introduction later in the year.

As well as the Eos, the front-wheel drive Audi A3 Cabriolet will go head-to-head with the forthcoming rear-drive BMW 1 Series Convertible.

While the VW has a folding metal roof, the A3 follows Audi tradition in having a fabric soft-top, which requires a lighter electric retraction mechanism and also requires less intrusion into boot space due to its Z-shaped fold.

Audi claims that the semi-automatic lightweight roof opens and closes in a class-leading nine seconds, and can be activated at speeds of up to 30km/h or remotely via the key. An optional fully automatic hood will be available from launch priced at $1300.

Audi also claims class-leading luggage space with standard split-fold seats providing a capacity of between 260 and 674 litres whether the soft top hood is open or closed.

Standard equipment in the A3 Cabriolet includes dual front, side and head airbags, electronic stability control, daytime running lights and ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution, electronic differential lock and Brake Assist.

The latest addition to Audi’s growing drop-top range, which will ultimately be joined by an A5 Convertible and possibly even a Targa-top R8, made its Australian debut at the 2008 Melbourne International Motor Show two months ago.

2008 Audi A3 Cabriolet pricing:
1.8 TFSI Attraction (a)	$49,900
2.0 TFSI Ambition	$54,900
2.0 TFSI Ambition (a)	$57,500

Read more:

More grip and go for Audi's TT

First look: Audi flips A3's wig

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