At the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, Audi launched the second-generation of the A3, the Typ 8P, designed by Walter de'Silva. Originally launched only as a three-door hatchback with four-cylinder engines, it featured a new automobile platform (the PQ35 platform), a redesigned and more spacious interior, new petrol engines with Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI), and standard six-speed manual gearboxes (except on the base 1.6).
In mid 2003, the line was updated with two sports-orientated models, a 2.0 Turbo-FSI version rated 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp), and a 3.2 L VR6 engine (for the first time) with 250 PS (184 kW; 247 hp). Haldex Traction-based quattro on-demand four-wheel drive, and the S-Tronic semi-auto gearbox were introduced as options (quattro is standard on the VR6) on every model with engine over 140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp).
In 2005, the "S line" trim level, offering new decorative elements, became available and the three-door A3 received the same front end styling features as the Sportback model. For the first time, the A3 became available in the North American market, exclusively with the Sportback body, with the base 2.0 inline-four TFSI introduced in 2005 as a 2006 model, and the 3.2 VR6 quattro following in 2006.
The five-door "Sportback" model was introduced in June 2004. The A3 Sportback is 80 mm (3 in) longer than the base three-door body, and includes improved rear cabin space and a larger luggage compartment (370 litres). It also received the new "single frame" front grille originally introduced in the A8 W12, which was later adopted across the whole A3 range.
In 2012 the second generation A3 was replaced by the third generation.
Audi’s soft-tops have always been stylish. But if the A4 is a little out of your price range don’t worry because a new, smaller A3 cabriolet is on the way.
The new A3 Cabriolet will get a 1.9TDI(105bhp/184lb-ft), 2.0TDI(140bhp/236lb-ft) with new Fuel Injection system, the new direct-injection 1.8TFSI(150bhp/184lb-ft), the 200bhp 2.0TFSI and Audi's new 125bhp 1.4TFSI.
The economical 1.9TDI returns 55.4mpg and does 0-60mph in 12.3 seconds.
The 2.0TDI gieves 53.3mpg and 0-60mph in 9.9 seconds.
The 1.8TFSI 38.7mpg and 0-60mph in 8.3 seconds.
The 2.0 TFSI 37.2mpg and 0-60mph in 7.3 seconds.
The 1.9TDI comes with a five-speed manual gearbox as standard, the 2.0TDI, 1.8TFSI and 2.0TFSI come with a six-speed 'box or the S-Tronic DSG gearbox, a dual-clutch transmission with fully-automatic mode or Drive and Sport sequential-shift modes.
The A3 cabriolet is shorter than the A3 Sportback compact estate, but longer than the A3 three-door hatchback. It has been reinforced to give similar rigidity to its structure as that of the hatch. Its cabin has a very different feel, however, with details similar to styling touches in the TT, and a choice of two satellite navigation systems with the MMI operating system, as in larger Audis.
In the UK, the A3 Cabriolet will not be offered in standard specification; Sport models only will be available at launch, though S Line models will follow later in the year. The Sport spec will include 17" aluminium wheels, front fog lights, stability control, an iPod-compatible audio system, stiffened sports suspension and sportier seats. Options will include xenon adaptive-beam headlights, LED daytime running lights, 18" wheels, tyre pressure monitoring, heated seats, electric seat adjustment, dual-zone climate control, a top-end Bose audio system, Bluetooth phone kit, parking sensors, leather upholstery and 15 paint colours, in combination with a black, blue or red hood. UK pricing will be announced nearer to launch next year.
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