28 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but for the 2016 Audi A3 Cabriolet 1.8L 4-cyl, it strikes a reasonable balance. This isn’t transport for the masses; it’s sunshine-in-your-hair motoring for those who prioritize open-air fun and European refinement over outright frugality. The buyer isn’t obsessing over every tenth of a gallon; they’re accepting a small compromise in fuel efficiency for the joy of driving a stylish, well-built convertible.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates offer a split personality for the A3 Cabriolet, reflecting its versatility. The 24 MPG city figure acknowledges the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the turbocharged engine is frequently off-boost, and the automatic transmission works to keep things smooth. On the open road, however, the 35 MPG highway rating showcases the engine’s efficiency at cruising speeds. The six-speed automatic transmission (AM-S6) helps here, providing relaxed highway gearing that minimizes fuel consumption when you’re covering longer distances. While the A3 Cabriolet is undeniably fun to drive in the city, its highway manners and fuel economy make it a surprisingly competent long-distance tourer.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,550 for the 2016 Audi A3 Cabriolet 1.8L. This figure is based on the EPA’s combined MPG rating, assuming 15,000 miles of driving per year, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. It’s a useful benchmark, but remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local gas prices. Someone who drives primarily in the city may find themselves spending more, while someone who does mostly highway driving could see lower costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many A3 Cabriolet owners report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates, but driving style plays a significant role. A heavy foot on the accelerator will diminish fuel economy, as will frequent use of the ‘S’ (Sport) mode, which holds gears longer for snappier acceleration. On the other hand, those who adopt a more relaxed driving style and make good use of cruise control on the highway can often meet or even exceed the 35 MPG highway rating. Regularly checking tire pressures, keeping up with scheduled maintenance, and avoiding unnecessary weight in the vehicle also contribute to improved fuel efficiency. For a broader view, see A3 MPG across all years.

How it compares

The 2016 Audi A3 Cabriolet occupies a unique space in the market, but it’s helpful to consider how its fuel economy stacks up against other convertibles and even some closely related sedans. For example, the BMW 228i Convertible from the same year, with its 2.0L engine, achieves around 26 MPG combined, so the A3 is negligibly better. The Mazda MX-5 Miata, always a popular choice, trounces both at around 30 MPG combined. However, it’s a very different beast to drive, being a lightweight roadster versus the A3’s more luxurious and refined grand touring experience. Looking at Audi’s own lineup, the A3 sedan with the same 1.8L engine offers slightly better economy, at 29 MPG combined, a small price to pay for the drop-top experience that many buyers prioritize. To see all Audi fuel economy data, this is a helpful resource.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy in your A3 Cabriolet is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The A3’s turbocharged engine delivers plenty of torque, so you don’t need to push it hard to make good progress. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Pay attention to your tire pressures. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Correct tire pressure also contributes to better handling and tire wear.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient when running, but idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine. The A3’s quick restart system makes this easy.

Use the appropriate fuel grade. While the A3 Cabriolet can run on regular gasoline, Audi recommends premium fuel for optimal performance. While it may not directly translate to a significant MPG increase, using premium fuel ensures the engine operates as intended, potentially improving overall efficiency and preventing long-term issues.