The Bologna Motor Show kicks off today, and Audi has unveiled the A3 Cabriolet for all to see. Based on what we can glean from the released info, the A3 Cabriolet is a Euro-only machine. As such, there are two TDI powerplants available at launch -- a 105-hp 1.9L and a 140-hp 2.0L. Both offer combined-cycle fuel economy better than 44 mpg. There are also a pair of gasoline engines on offer. The 1.8 TFSI makes 160 hp while the 2.0TFSI we're all familiar with produces another 40 on top of that. The 2.0 TDI and both TFSI engines can be had with optional S Tronic dual-clutch gearboxes instead of their standard manual units. All A3 Cabriolets are front-wheel-drive.

Appearance-wise, it looks pretty much how you'd expect an Audi to look. The shield grille dominates the front end and makes it instantly recognizable.The compact four-seater has a typically well-executed Audi interior, which can be dressed up beyond its standard "Ambition" and "Attraction" trims with S-Line and Audi exclusive packages. The four-seater's soft top is power-operated and can be had as either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic unit. The latter receives an extra layer of sound insulation in its construction to make for a quieter closed-roof ride. When folded, it impacts trunkspace minimally, according to Audi, and can also be operated while the car's moving at speeds up to 30 km/h. Speaking of the trunk, it's available room can be expanded by flipping down the back seats regardless of the roof position.

Sales begin in Europe in early 2008, and like we said, there's no mention made of a US version. That doesn't mean we won't eventually get one, however. Remember that Audi showed off the Cross Cabriolet quattro concept in L.A. earlier this month, which is essentially this car with AWD and a bigger, more powerful engine. Maybe Audi still has the U.S. on its radar screen for this one.