Item: Used Audi A3 Cabriolet 2003 - 2013
Author: What Car? Team

What is it like?

Ownership cost

Advice for buyers

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Sports

Audi is a brand that sets the standard for interior quality, and this, combined with its vast and ever-growing model line-up, has helped it become one of the ‘big three’ German prestige car makers, along with BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The A3 hatchback, A4 executive saloon and Q7 SUV have all won their classes at the What Car? Car of the Year Awards in recent years, while the TT coupé is the most decorated car in the history of the ceremony.

At least some of Audi's success over the past 30 years can be attributed to the growth in sales of vehicles with four-wheel drive; the company arguably led the way in bringing 4x4 technology into the mainstream, with its Quattro coupé in the early 1980s.

Today, most Audis are available with at least the option of four-wheel drive, while the list of SUVs from the brand includes the Q2, Q3, Q5 and Q7.

AUDI

The Audi A3 Cabriolet feels like a quality product and is easier to live with than most convertibles.

Used Audi A3 Cabriolet 2003 - 2013

The 1.6 TDI averages 65.7mpg, the 1.9 TDI does 55.4mpg, while the 2.0 TDI delivers 53.3mpg (that increased to 61.4mpg after the 2009 upgrades).

The 1.6-litre TFSI averages 40.4mpg, the 1.8 TFSI 38.7mpg (42.8mpg after 2009) and the 2.0 TFSI delivers 37.2mpg (39.2mpg after 2009). The newer 1.2 TFSI is best, with average economy of 49.6mpg.

The 1.6 TDI is the cleanest of all the cars, with CO2 emissions of 114g/km, although the 2.0 TDI isn't far behind at 119g/km. The 1.2 TFSI is the cleanest petrol model at 132g/km.

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The Audi A3 Cabriolet feels like a quality product and is easier to live with than most convertibles.

From launch, the A3 Cabriolet's engine options included three petrols and two diesels. The petrol choices were an entry-level 101bhp 1.6-litre, a turbocharged 158bhp 1.8-litre TFSI and a 197bhp 2.0-litre TFSI. Diesel engines included a 103bhp 1.9 TDI and a 123bhp 2.0 TDI.

In mid-2009, a 103bhp 1.2-litre TFSI engine was added, and a 104bhp 1.6 TDI replaced the 1.9-litre diesel. But our pick is the 1.8-litre TFSI - it's reasonably priced and delivers good performance.

All versions get air-conditioning, all-round electric windows and alloy wheels. The entry-level car has a semi-automatic hood (you have to manually release the hood from the header rail). Sport trim adds a fully electric hood as well as climate control, while S line models have sportier styling details, and upgraded alloys and cabin trim.

In 2009, engine stop-start systems became standard across the A3 range, helping to improve fuel economy and cutting CO2 emissions.

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What we're looking for:<ul><li>Wind-in-the-hair excitement</li> <li>Roof that’s quick and easy to raise and lower</li> <li>Comfortable seating for four adults</li> <li>Sufficient practicality for everyday use</li> <li>Little wind buffeting</li> <li>Quietness, whether the roof is up or down</li> <li>Minimal shaking and shimmying over bumps</li></ul>

Despite the British weather, UK car buyers are among the biggest enthusiasts for wind-in-your-hair motoring, so convertibles have always been surprisingly popular here. It’s best to be able to react to the fickle climate, though, so we’re after a roof that opens (and closes) slickly and quickly and good top-down cruising refinement.

There are precious few bespoke drop-tops these days, so your choice of models is generally limited to soft-top&nbsp;versions of existing models. Mini will sell you a drop-top version of its style-focused hatchback, if you’re after a bit of flair. The Audi A5&nbsp;Cabriolet, meanwhile, brings all of the benefits of the regular A5&nbsp;– refined engines and a beautifully finished interior. Alternatively, the much more expensive Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet is one of the most luxurious convertibles on sale.

Convertible

The only major issues with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/audi">Audi</a> A3 Cabriolet concern the roof. Motor failures and problems with the wear and tear of the roof fabric are the biggest gripes. A fault that prevents the rear windows from fully closing is another issue.

As with any used convertible, check the car's cabin for water damage - especially in the footwells.

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The Audi A3 Cabriolet has a traditional cloth roof, which helps to keep the car's weight down. The roof material is thicker than many rivals', so offers decent sound insulation. The roof takes jusat nine seconds to drop and 11 to go back up.

As with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/a3/hatchback/review/n77">A3 hatchback</a> on which it's based, the Cabriolet's dashboard and interior are well put together with high-quality materials. The driving position will suit most drivers.

Unfortunately, the A3 Cabriolet isn't as good to drive as it is to look at. The steering is light and provides little feedback. There is plenty of grip, but the ride is a little too firm and never feels completely settled.

Inside, there's room for four adults – just. The tight rear seats aren't ideal for longer trips. There's decent boot space and folding rear seats are standard.

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Used Audi A3 Cabriolet 2003 - 2013 review

Every 2021 Electric and Hybrid Car Awards winner

Alternatives

What alternatives should I consider to a used Audi A3 sports?