Fourth model in the A3 range debuts in Frankfurt

Drawing inspiration from the new Audi A3 Saloon with its flowing lines and finely balanced proportions, the all new A3 Cabriolet makes its world public debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.

To achieve its sleeker profile and provide the capacity for complete soft-top concealment when in open mode, the new compact class cabriolet has grown compared to the previous model: its length has increased from 4,240mm to 4,420mm, its wheelbase from 2,580mm to 2,600mm and its width from 1,770mm to 1,790mm. Only its height of 1,410mm is down on its predecessor by 15mm.

The new A3 Cabriolet has a soft fabric roof that is stretched over a lightweight kinematic mechanism made of magnesium-steel, and it complements the car's design perfectly. At the press of a button, the top opens or closes electro-hydraulically in less than 18 seconds at speeds of up to 50km/h. When retracted, the top - folded into three layers - rests in a tray that barely affects luggage capacity, which is 287 litres.

Three newly developed engines will be offered in the Audi A3 Cabriolet at its launch, all placing the emphasis as much on performance as on efficiency. The two TFSI engines produce 140bhp and 180bhp from 1.4 and 1.8-litre engine displacements, respectively, while the 2.0 TDI develops 150bhp; other engines will follow - ranging from the 1.6 TDI with 110bhp to the 2.0 TFSI, which will power the Audi S3 Cabriolet with 300bhp. All engines in the new Audi A3 Cabriolet employ direct injection and turbocharging and are backed up by a start-stop-system.

The first ever S3 Cabriolet will follow shortly after the initial launch. Its 2.0 TFSI engine will deliver 300bhp and transfer 380Nm of torque to the crankshaft. Equipped as standard with the six-speed S tronic transmission, it will be capable of completing the sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds.