AUDI has jumped into its metaphorical Delorean and sped back to the future for its new compact convertible. The A3 Cabrio is akin to Volkswagen’s late and lamented original Golf Cabriolet, with its appealing style and no-nonsense all-weather fabric roof, creating an upmarket four-seater sun-seeker that can be used every day without the compromises that inflict the folding hard-top mob. Yet with a pair of sweet turbo engine options, responsive dynamics and high levels of safety and refinement, this is still very much a new-age Audi – without the hard ride and dull steering. Unexpectedly, we’ve come away charmed, so if you’re considering a Mini Cabrio, VW Eos, 120i Convertible, Saab 9-3, Volvo C70 or even Audi A4 Convertible, then it might be worth your while giving the new A3 Cabriolet a punt.

Audi A3 Cabriolet Range 2008