Collection: Towbars to fit Audi A3 2 Door Convertible (8V) 2016-2020

The 2016–2020 Audi A3 Cabriolet (8V) delivers sophisticated open-top driving with Audi’s signature build quality. Its fabric roof retracts in under 18 seconds, allowing seamless transitions from coupe-like refinement to wind-in-the-hair freedom. Standard features across trims (SE, Sport, S line) include leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and a pop-up 7-inch MMI infotainment display. Engine options range from the 1.4 TFSI COD (148bhp) to the robust 2.0 TFSI Quattro (217bhp), paired with a smooth 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. Despite its compact dimensions (4.4m long, 1.8m wide), the A3 Cabriolet offers a composed ride and agile handling.

Towing Capability

• Towing Limits: The 1.4 TFSI COD variant boasts a braked towing capacity of 1,500 kg (unbraked: 750 kg), while the 2.0 TFSI Quattro manages 1,600 kg. Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive (standard with 2.0 TFSI) enhances traction for caravan towing, particularly on wet or uneven roads.
• Stability & Performance: The turbocharged engines deliver strong low-end torque (e.g., 250 Nm in the 1.4 TFSI), ensuring confident pull-away and hill starts. Stability control systems, including Audi Pre Sense Front (forward collision mitigation), help manage trailer sway. Real-world tests note 0–60 mph times increase by ≈1.5 seconds when towing near capacity, but the powertrain remains unfazed.
• Practical Considerations:
  • The compact285-litre boot (12.3 cu ft) offers limited cargo space alongside tow gear—pack strategically.

Owner Experiences

Owners praise the A3 Cabriolet’s refined towing manners, citing minimal body flex and precise steering even with 1,200–1,400 kg loads. The S tronic gearbox earns acclaim for seamless shifts under load, though some note heavier fuel consumption (≈22–25 mpg when towing vs. 33 mpg combined). The cabin’s excellent noise insulation reduces fatigue on long hauls, though rear-seat legroom (35.1 inches) suits children only. Common gripes include the absence of USB ports (pre-2017 models) and the compact boot.

Pros and Cons as a Towing Car

Pros:

• Composed dynamics: Multi-link rear suspension and precise steering maintain stability with trailers.
• Strong safety suite: Includes rear parking sensors, Pre Sense collision mitigation, and a 5-star Euro NCAP rating.
• Efficient engines: TFSI COD technology balances power and economy (36.7 mpg extra-urban).

Cons:

• Cabin space: Tight rear seats and a small boot limit passenger/cargo flexibility.
• Ride firmness: S line models’ sport suspension can feel jarring over bumps when laden.

Driving Dynamics

The A3 Cabriolet shines with its balanced ride-handling compromise. The electrically assisted steering is light at low speeds for easy manoeuvring, yet it firms up confidently at motorway pace. Despite the open-top design, structural rigidity minimises scuttle shake, and the suspension absorbs bumps adeptly—even with trailers. Quattro models offer tenacious grip in poor conditions, though front-wheel-drive versions (e.g., 1.4 TFSI) benefit from traction control when towing.