At the Geneva Motor Show, besides the Audi R8 V12 TDI Le Mans, another interesting display at the Audi was the new Audi A3 Cabriolet.
Like all Audi’s convertibles, the A3 cabrio is fitted with a classic fabric top (lighter and allows more luggage space when folded) which opens hydraulically in nine seconds and is offered partially automatic and fully automatic, the latter being a specially soundproofed acoustic top. Like you’d expect, the safety is very important at a convertible model and materials like high-strength steels were used and the car also has plenty of reinforcement features.
The A3 Cabriolet customers will have four engine choices: the 1.9 TDI with 77 kW (105 hp), the 2.0 TDI with 103 kW (140 hp), the 1.8 TFSI with 118 kW (160 hp) and the 2.0 TFSI with 147 kW (200 hp). They will also be able to choose the S tronic dual-clutch transmission. The first customers will get their cars this spring.
Read the press release and see more photos of the Audi A3 Cabriolet from the Geneva Motor Show after the jump.
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PRESS RELEASE
Audi A3 Cabriolet
Sporty, elegant, emotion-packed—the new Audi A3 Cabriolet is making its appearance in perfect time for spring 2008. The convertible Audi A3 is the premium option in the compact class, offering the sporting genes of the A3 coupled with the uncompromising quality that distinguishes every Audi model. Four engines and a wide array of individual extras are available to choose from.
Audi convertible models generally sport a classic fabric top, with the open-top A3 measuring in at 4.24 meters (13.91 ft) in length with contours that lend a touch of harmonious elegance and the sportiness of a coupe. Its soft top, which is notable for its light weight and excellent fit, can be opened hydraulically in just nine seconds and takes up very little space when folded back. The top is available in partially automatic and fully automatic models—in the latter case as a specially soundproofed acoustic top.
The body structure of this premium convertible from Audi contains a high proportion of high-strength, ultra-high-strength and hot-formed steels, as well as a large number of reinforcement features that provide maximum rigidity and crash safety. The interior with its ample space for four occupants features typical, uncompromising Audi craftsmanship, attractive design and exemplary ergonomics, which together create an atmosphere of sporty elegance. The rear seat backs can be folded down, increasing the luggage capacity from 260 liters (9.18 cubic ft) to 674 liters (23.80 cubic ft) – whether the top is up or down!
The A3 Cabriolet leaves the factory with four engine options, two of which are TDI units and two gasoline: the 1.9 TDI with 77 kW (105 hp), the 2.0 TDI with 103 kW (140 hp), the 1.8 TFSI with 118 kW (160 hp) and the 2.0 TFSI with 147 kW (200 hp). All four of these engines utilize direct injection with a turbocharger, uniting sporty power with a high degree of efficiency. If desired, the innovative S tronic dual-clutch transmission can be selected to apply engine power to the wheels (depending on engine version).
The Audi dynamic suspension lends the A3 Cabriolet superior agility and comes complete with a responsive electromechanical power steering system that consumes very little energy. The four-link rear suspension combines superb comfort with sporty handling. A sports suspension option is also available in addition to the standard suspension.
The Audi A3 Cabriolet comes with the Attraction and Ambition equipment lines. Both packages are generous, with the Ambition line including, among other features, 17-inch aluminum wheels, sports suspension and sports seats. An S line exterior package and S line sports package are available from quattro GmbH.
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Will the A3 cabrio be brought to the US and, if so, when? Thank you very much.