Audi A3 more fun without the top (pictures)

Audi's compact A3 can be had as a sedan, sportback or this Cabriolet model.

Optional LED headlights use low energy and cast bright light.

The base 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine is good for 170 horsepower.

The convertible soft top goes down in 20 seconds.

Sound-deadening material in the soft top helps with road noise.

The A3 Cabriolet can be had with Quattro all-wheel-drive, but this example has only the front wheels driven.

At 7.2 cubic feet, the trunk space is limited.

Even in top Prestige trim, the front seats are not power adjustable.

Access to the rear seats is easy with the top down.

LEDs on the side mirror casing alert you to cars in the next lane over.

The navigation system, with its pop-up LCD, is optional.

Audi uses analog gauges in the instrument cluster.

The shifter controls a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, and the cabin tech control dial includes an embedded touch surface.

Audi uses an elliptical format for menus.

Destination options include online search with the car's 4G connection.

Google Earth integration brings satellite imagery to navigation.

The stored maps for the navigation system also look good.

Online destination search gives options concerning where to look.

Audi powers a number of services, including weather and traffic, from the A3's data connection.

The parking service shows which garages have available spaces.

The hands-free phone interface will get more use in the A3 Cabriolet than in other models due to the lack of voice command.

Audio sources include Bluetooth streaming, HD radio, satellite radio and iOS integration, although the latter works only through the car's proprietary music interface.

With the 13 speakers, 625 watts and excellent engineering, the Bang and Olufsen audio system delivers fine sound quality for discerning listeners.

The back-up camera includes trajectory lines showing the path of the car based on how the wheels are turned.