Spied: Audi A3 Cabrio on US shores

Spy photographers have spotted the upcoming A3 Cabrio on U.S. shores for the first time. The A3 Cabrio is expected to debut at March's Geneva Motor Show, although a September introduction at the Frankfurt Auto Show is still possible.

The newest A3 is also reported to have significant styling changes, both front and rear. The front fascia is said to have a new hood, narrower headlights with a more imposing grill and a new lower spoiler. The new rear fascia will include A5-styled taillights.

The styling changes will help align the A3 with the newly introduced A5 coupe and the next-generation A4 sedan, which will show up at the Frankfurt auto show next month. The side profile should remain similar to that of the current A3, thanks to a sharply raked rear window. The soft-top, which is electrically operated, will fold flat behind the rear seats, revealing twin roll-over hoops.

The A3 was first offered in North America just two years ago in 2005. It has been available in Europe since the mid-1990s.