AUDI S3 Cabriolet Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Audi introduced a mid-life cycle refresh for the A3 range in 2016, and, along with the rest of the range, it improved the S3 as well.

The convertible market was not big in 2016, but it was essential to a brand image, and Audi knew that. With its image still affected by Dieselgate, it tried to show its good side with sportier vehicles that could attract more people and distract them from the scandal. The S3 Cabriolet was a smart way to do that: it offered a good image, plenty of power, and a premium feel.

Audi introduced new headlights with LED signature daytime running lights inside the MATRIX-LED headlamps along with the facelifted version. Their sharp design with angular lines stood on the sides of the massive, singleframe grille. Like any of the S-specific models, the S3 Cabriolet featured silver A-pillars and door-mirrors caps. In the back, the double, twin-exhausts with oval tips confirmed the car's special status. The carmaker installed standard 18" light-alloy wheels, with an option for 19".

Inside, the S3 Cabriolet featured a 2+2 interior, with limited legroom for the rear passengers due to its 2.6 m (102.2") wheelbase. The flat-bottom steering wheel sported the red and gray S-logo. Its front sport-bucket seats with high bolstering were upholstered in leather as standard, with an option for heating and ventilation. Audi installed a new infotainment unit with a 7" screen that popped-up from the dashboard.

Audi installed the same 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine from the rest of the S3 range under the hood. It provided plenty of power for the compact convertible, and its all-wheel-drive system was fitted as standard.

After expanding the S3 lineup from hatchback to sedan, the German premium automaker went further and added an open-top version for this performance compact vehicle.

Audi has already expanded the A3 lineup from a three-door hatchback, as it was at the beginning of this model, to a wider range of vehicles. Moreover, the automaker considered offering the powerful S3 version for all bodywork versions. Maybe it was reluctant to offer the same muscle package for the open-top version due to a lower bodywork rigidity. But after solving that issue with additional reinforcements, the S3 Cabriolet broke covers in 2013.

High-performance open-top vehicles were always a dream for car enthusiasts. Adding seating for four is just the icing on the cake. That's why the open-top version of the S3 featured distinct details on the outsider. Thus, the front single-frame grille featured seven horizontal double-slats with chromed accents and a chromed surrounding. In addition, the lower bumper received a new design with specific side scoops that hosted air intakes to cool the brakes. From its profile, the S3 got the specific treatment of silver door-mirror caps and windshield frame. At the back, under the bumper, Audi placed a quad exhaust system and a diffuser.

Inside, Audi claimed that it was room enough for four adults. That was true only if the front seats were not pushed all the way to the back. At the same time, the front occupants were spoiled with sports bucket seats and all the comfort of amenities and technologies. But most importantly, the rag-top could've been lowered or raised in just 18 seconds at speeds of up to 50 kph (31 mph).

But, for sure, the most significant upgrade for this open-top version of the A3 was the drivetrain. Audi installed the 2.0-liter turbocharged powerplant that could unleash its 300 PS (296 hp) to all four wheels via a standard S tronic six-speed transmission. It was the only open-top compact vehicle fitted with an all-wheel drive system.