In the third generation of the A3 lineup, there was also the second generation of the Cabriolet version.
It featured a larger trunk and an important, technological, evolution over its predecessor.

One of the biggest problems for a cabriolet is the rear-seat room. Most of the convertibles are 2+2 where the +2 needs to be very small children. The second generation of the A3 convertible was the answer for a true 2+2 seating configuration.

The bodywork was very light for an open-top vehicle. In the 1.4-TFSI version, the car weighed just 1345 kg (2965.2 lb). That was lighter than some of the regular A3 versions and around 60 kg (132.2 lb) less than its predecessor. This performance was achieved due to the extensive use of the aluminum for the hood, front subframe, and the crash-absorber front profile. The car was longer than its predecessor and it was available with two canvas tops, with two or three layers. It was opened and closed in 18 seconds at speeds up to 50 kph (31 mph).

The A3 Cabriolet was available in three trim levels: Attraction, Ambition, and Ambiente. A long options list granted access to cloth, leather, or Alcantara upholstery. The MMI (Multi Media Information) system featured a 7” display that extended vertically from the dashboard. It was controlled via a touch-sensitive pad on top of a rotary knob between the front seats. Due to its longer, 2.6m (102.3”) wheelbase, there was enough room for the rear passengers.

At the launch, the A3 Cabriolet was available with a choice of three engines: two gasoline and one diesel. All of them featured turbocharging and direct injection, which were mated with manual or automatic transmission. The all-wheel-drive system was offered as an option.