The Audi A3 Cabriolet (8V) 2.0 TDI 150 hp quattro, produced from 2014 to 2016, represented a compelling blend of open-air motoring, diesel efficiency, and Audi’s renowned all-wheel-drive system. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the 8V A3 Cabriolet lineup, it catered to buyers seeking a more economical and practical alternative to the higher-performance petrol variants, while still offering a premium driving experience. This model occupied a niche between the entry-level 1.6 TDI and the more powerful 2.0 TFSI options, appealing to those prioritizing fuel economy and all-weather capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A3 |
| Generation | A3 Cabriolet (8V) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) clean diesel quattro |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 125 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 220.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3500-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CRBC, CRLB, CRUA, DBGA, DEJA, DCYA |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 320 l (11.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 678 l (23.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4421 mm (174.06 in.) |
| Width | 1793 mm (70.59 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Height | 1409 mm (55.47 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2595 mm (102.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1526 mm (60.08 in.) |
| Front overhang | 869 mm (34.21 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 957 mm (37.68 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A3 Cabriolet 2.0 TDI quattro is the Volkswagen Group’s EA188 series 2.0-liter inline-four diesel engine. Specifically, engine codes CRBC, CRLB, CRUA, DBGA, DEJA, and DCYA were commonly found in this variant, representing minor variations within the same engine family. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque, providing 150 horsepower at 3500-4000 rpm and a substantial 340 Nm (250.77 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 3000 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and overall efficiency. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, providing precise gear changes and contributing to the car’s engaging driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TDI quattro offered a balanced driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 150 hp engine provided adequate power for comfortable cruising and overtaking. The quattro all-wheel-drive system significantly enhanced traction, particularly in inclement weather, making it a practical choice for year-round use. The six-speed manual transmission allowed for good control over the engine’s powerband. Compared to the 1.6 TDI, the 2.0 TDI offered noticeably more performance, while the higher-output 2.0 TFSI petrol variants provided a more exhilarating, but less fuel-efficient, experience. The gear ratios were tuned for a blend of fuel economy and responsiveness, with a relatively long sixth gear for highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A3 Cabriolet 2.0 TDI quattro typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, an infotainment system with a color display, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Optional extras included navigation, parking sensors, heated seats, and a premium sound system. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered progressive upgrades in terms of interior materials and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The A3 Cabriolet’s chassis featured independent suspension all around – McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear – providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and handling, offering a composed ride without being overly soft.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A3 Cabriolet 2.0 TDI quattro was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, all-weather capability, and comfortable ride. Compared to the petrol-powered A3 Cabriolets, the TDI offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a more practical choice for drivers covering long distances. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine lacked the refinement and responsiveness of the petrol alternatives. Reliability was generally good, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues could occur with infrequent long-distance driving.
Legacy
The Audi A3 Cabriolet 2.0 TDI quattro remains a popular choice in the used car market. The EA188 diesel engine, while subject to some scrutiny regarding emissions, is generally considered durable and reliable when properly maintained. The quattro all-wheel-drive system continues to be a desirable feature, particularly in regions with harsh winters. These models offer a compelling combination of style, practicality, and fuel efficiency, making them a viable option for buyers seeking a premium open-top experience.
