Audi S3 loses its head:

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The Audi S3 is a particularly good looking car, especially in sedan format, no one can deny that.  Those quad pipes in particular look so good on a car with those proportions.  Now, Audi has lopped off the roof of the S3, and revealed what looks like a miniature S5 Cabrio, and we like it!

The new Audi S3 Cabriolet is built off the VW group’s MQB platform, and features the same 221kW (206kW locally), 380Nm 2.0T FSI engine, linked to quattro-branded Haldex AWD and a 6-speed S tronic transmission, to deliver some impressive sprint times of 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds, no doubt thanks to the extra weight of the mechanism for the soft top.  Weight has however been distributed in a 56:44 ratio, front:rear for optimal handling.

The new Cabrio features larger proportions than the S3 hatch and Sportback, mimicking those of the sedan at 4.43m long, 1.79m wide, 1.39m tall, and with a wheelbase of 2.6m.  In order to keep extra weight to a minimum, the open-top four-seater utilises magnesium, aluminium and high strength steel in its construction.  The roof itself makes use of a high-insulation foam layer that reduces noise levels when the roof is up.  The soft-top is available in 3 colours, and opens and closes within 18 seconds, whilst driving at speeds of up to 50km/h.  The S3 Cabrio features an active rollover system to protect passengers in case of the vehicle rolling in an accident.

Adorned with quad tailpipes, S badging and trim, and available in a selection of 12 colours, the S3 Cabriolet miniaturises the sexiness of the S5 Cabriolet perfectly.  Dare we say, this may just be the best looking 4-seater convertible available on the market today.

We’re currently awaiting confirmation from Audi South Africa on the arrival date for the S3 Cabriolet, but with the S3 sedan due to arrive in the next few months, it looks likely that SA will receive this too, albeit in a 206kW detuned state.

Full technical specs of the standard S3 can be found HERE.

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