Audi S3 Cabriolet

The cabin is well-laid out and features a matt brushed aluminium finished inlay. At front, the S sport seats are covered in fine Nappa leather upholstery with diamond-patterned stitching. The lumbar support, heated function and 4-way power adjusting feature on the front seats make it more comfortable. There is an extended upholstery package which comprises of knee pads and door armrests in mono pur. Talking of feature list, the Audi S3 cabriolet packs an automatic air conditioner with dual zone climate control, the door sill trims feature illuminated aluminium inlays with S embossing. Adding to the plush quotient inside is the aluminium finishing around air vents, glove box, window switches, interior mirror switch and parking brake. The Audi S3 cabriolet also highlights an LED interior lighting package with illuminated cup-holders in front and additional luggage compartment light among others. Not to forget, the S design multifunction steering wheel which is wrapped in leather covering. Paddle shifter and in-cabin utility points are also part of the regular kit. Audi has packed its connect system with in-car WiFi hotspot and google services, Audi phone box light, Audi smartphone interface compatible with Apple or Android devices through a USB. A Bang & Olufsen sound system with Bluetooth interface for mobile connectivity is also layered on the console. DAB digital radio, Audi’s signature virtual cockpit with digitalized instrument cluster featuring a 12.3-inch high-resolution colour display and MMI navigation plus with MMI touch round up the interior pack.

Measuring 4,431 mm long, the rear overhang in the S3 Cabriolet is slightly longer at 965 mm as compared to the front which gauges 870 mm. The width (including tyres) stands at 1,793 mm and the height is measured at 1,388 mm. A high gloss package for the exterior is standard, while Audi’s exclusive titanium black gloss package can be optioned at additional cost. The face sports LED fitted headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights; it additionally offers turning lights, all-weather lights, motorway light function and LED rear lights with dynamic indicators. However, the Audi Matrix LED headlamps are optional. Other no-cost features include an acoustic hood, power adjusting wing mirrors with auto-dimming and heated functions. An anti-theft alarm and convenience keyless entry start with sensor-controlled luggage compartment release all are part of the regular pack. Moving to the side, there are chunky 19-inch sport alloy wheels finished in matt titanium, those wanting to get the partly polished titanium finished alloys can opt for it at no additional cost. Audi drive select, Audi magnetic ride, 5 design brake calipers in red and tyre pressure monitor are some of the other vital features aboard. Interestingly, the Audi S3 cabriolet colour choices are wide with aplenty no-cost options such as brilliant black, Ibis white, floret silver, mythos black, nano grey, Navarra blue, tango re a Daytona grey. There is just a single Ara blue custom option available with it. 

In comparison to its Sportback & Sedan siblings, the S3 cabriolet seems to struggle in this department due to its heavyweight especially when driven over a short speed breaker. At 1,620 kg (kerb weight), it is heavier by 175kg, compared to the Sportback. 

The Audi S3 specifications are identical to its sedan and Sportback versions, as it gets the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol turbocharged unit, paired to the seven-speed S tronic gearbox. In terms of output, this engine makes 213 kW between 5,400 to 6,500 rpm and 380 Nm torque between 1,850 to 5,300 rpm. Audi’s Quattro drivetrain is standard akin to S3 sedan and Sportback. Talking of the Audi S3 cabriolet fuel consumption, it is rated slightly more than its siblings at 5.3 l/100 km and the top speed is claimed to be 250 km/h. 

In line with other Audi models, this one too packs dual airbags in front for the driver and co-passenger; side airbags are also equipped on the front seats. Head level curtain airbag for font and rear and a knee bag for the driver provide extra cushioning to the occupants. Audi pre-sense city with autonomous emergency braking (AEB), electronic stabilization control with electronic wheel-selective torque control, anti-lock-braking system, ASR, EDL and brake assist are some other prominent safety features embedded in the Audi S3 cabriolet. In addition to the above technical aides, it also packs an electromechanical parking brake, electromechanical speed-sensitive steering, seat belts, and seat belt reminders, etc. There are plethora of other driver assistance tech such as adaptive cruise control, active lane assist, Audi parking system with rearview camera, Audi side assist, blind spot lane change warning, cross-traffic assist rear, high beam assist, light and rain sensor, and park assist. 

The Audi S3 cabriolet doesn’t quite match the straight-line performance and the cabin styling which its other variants offer, however, if you are looking for speed and a vehicle that you can cruise around, S3 cabriolet works well.