Audi->ke14 is adding to the number of A3 models->ke1086 that are available with the very efficient 1.4-liter, I-4, TFSI engine currently sipping gasoline in Europe. The impressive powertrain is now available in the four-door sedan, three-door hatch, five-door Sportback,->ke304 and of course, the Cabriolet pictured above.

Audi is offering the engine with a choice of transmissions: standard six-speed manual or seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch. The highly engineered mechanics inside the engine allow for outstanding fuel efficiency->ke1051 to the tune of nearly 50 mpg on the European combined cycle. The engine’s carbon footprint is equally impressive, emitting only 175.4 grams of C02 per mile.

Though the engine does well at sipping fuel, it lacks somewhat on power. Its horsepower rating is listed at 150 and it propels the car to 62 mph in an underwhelming 8.1 seconds. Then again, 50 mpg is a pretty solid trade off for losing nearly every light-to-light drag race.

If torque is what’s needed, Audi also offers the 1.6-liter, TDI engine in the A3->ke1086 Ultra. Making 110 horsepower, the turbo diesel consumes fuel at the sparse rate of 71.3 mpg. Its clean-diesel technology also keeps it from cutting holes in the atmosphere, emitting only 141.6 grams per mile. The TDI is available in both the four-door sedan and three-door hatchback versions.

Sadly, it seems Audi will be keeping these fuel-efficient models away from these United States, likely due to regulations and red tape.

Click past the jump to read more about the Audi A3 1.4 TFSI Cabriolet Ultra.

Audi A3 1.4 TFSI Cabriolet Ultra in detail

The Audi A3 Cabriolet is a smallish convertible with two doors and a 2+2 design. Like its new efficient gasoline and diesel powerplants, the A3 drop-top isn’t offered in the U.S., but is a popular option in Europe and other countries around the world.

Those countries that get the A3 will enjoy the car’s impressively low fuel consumption rate. What’s more, Audi is able to achieve these numbers without added hybrid technologies like say, the Toyota Prius. While the engine gets help from low-rolling-resistance tires and slippery body panels wrapping its frame, the majority of the fuel savings comes from its cylinder-deactivation technology.

Once the car is underway and the engine isn’t having to accelerate, two of the engine’s four cylinders cut off to conserve fuel. While other automakers the world over have employed this technology, none of them have touched 50 mpg with their designs; partly because it’s mostly used on larger engines in bigger vehicles.