Audi will build a convertible version of the A3 compact, planned for sale by the end of 2007, Erich Schmitt has confirmed to Motor Trend. Audi probably will build the A3 Cabrio alongside the TT at its Hungarian factory, according to Schmitt, the Audi board member in charge of purchasing. The plant also makes Audi's 2.0 turbo FSI and V-6 and V-8 gas engines. The two-door softtop will have an engine range similar to the A3 hatchback's, with FWD and Quattro drivetrains and the DSG (now renamed S-tronic) sequential transmission.
Meanwhile, Audi has already introduced the high-performance S3 in Europe. It's a three-door A3 (not sold in the U.S. to avoid biting into VW GTI sales) with a 265-horsepower version of the 2.0-liter FSI turbo engine. The weight savings versus a 3.2-liter V-6 (the VW R32's engine) should provide for great agility.