 Innovative technologies such as the S
tronic six- or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and the Audi magnetic
ride suspension system deliver the ultimate in driving enjoyment and dynamic
performance. The high-grade equipment and fittings underscore the style of
the two premium compacts from Audi.
Design and interior
The strong character of the three-door A3 and the A3
Sportback is immediately conveyed by their looks. The hood, fenders, bumper
and large single-frame radiator grill are distinctive in their styling. Daytime
running lights are standard features, and the optional Xenon plus headlamps
use LEDs. In the A3 Sportback, innovative light-conductor bars in the rear
lamps create a ribbon of light that produces a striking effect in the dark.
The sportily elegant feel is carried through into the interior. Aluminum-look
elements on the air vents, light switches and center console accentuate the
premium character of the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback. For manual transmission
models, the driver information system (DIS) displays a recommendation of
the ideal gear to select. The front-wheel drive A3 provides a generous 350
to 1,080 liter (12.36 to 38.14 cubic ft) trunk capacity, with the
front-wheel drive A3 Sportback even offering 370 to 1,100 liters (13.07
to 38.85 cubic ft). A number of exclusive extras demonstrate the high-tech
standard of the A3 model series. They include the adaptive light dynamic
cornering lights and the park assist. The park assist’s ultrasonic sensors
scan the length of parking spaces along the roadside and a dashboard display
indicates when one of them is big enough to parallel-park into. All the driver
has to do is engage reverse and operate the accelerator, clutch and brake
pedals – the system steers the car automatically into the space.
Drivetrain
Audi has specified eight engines for the A3 –
five gasoline and three diesel units. Six of them are state-of-the-art
four-cylinder turbocharged direct injection units. Their badging – TFSI
and TDI – embodies the strengths of Audi engine technology: power, torque,
efficiency, smooth running and high-tech engineering.
The engine range comprises:
- 1.6 developing 75 kW (102 bp)
- 1.4 TFSI developing 92 kW (125 bp)
- 1.8 TFSI and 1.8 TFSI quattro developing 118 kW (160 bp)
- 2.0 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI quattro developing 147 kW (200 bp)
- 3.2 quattro developing 184 kW (250 bp)
- 1.9 TDI developing 77 kW (105 bp)
- 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TDI quattro developing 103 kW (140 bp)
- 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TDI quattro developing 125 kW (170 bp)
The 1.4 TFSI embodies the Audi downsizing strategy:
substituting engine displacement with turbocharging, and so delivering a
major improvement in efficiency. From a 1,390 cubic centimeter capacity,
the little turbo engine develops 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque and
delivers a sturdy power output, yet its average fuel consumption is just
5.6 liters per 100 km (42.00 US
mpg), when fitted with
the S tronic transmission. The efficiency champ of the range is the
77 kW (105 bp) 1.9 TDI e, available as a three-door A3 and A3 Sportback in
all lines. It consumes just 4.5 liters of diesel per 100 km (52.27 US
mpg), and keeps
CO2 emissions down to 119 grams per km (191.51
g/mile). Efficiency
is further enhanced in the e models by special engine electronics, wider
transmission ratios in third to fifth gear, tires optimized for low roll
resistance and refinements to the bodywork. With a top speed of 194 km/h
(120.55 mph) and a sprint to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 11.4 seconds,
the three-door A3 1.9 TDI e is highly agile.
The transmission program is also especially attractive.
Most engine versions are supplied as standard with six-speed manual transmission.
The 1.6 and 1.9 TDI are equipped with five-speed manual transmission, and
the 3.2 with the hi-tech S tronic dual-clutch transmission, which is
available as an optional extra for all engine versions. The six-cylinder
unit, the 2.0 TFSI and the diesel engines come with the six-speed S tronic,
while the 1.6, the 1.4 TFSI and the 1.8 TFSI feature a new seven-speed S
tronic system. Their clutches work with no separate oil supply, boosting
the engines’ already high efficiency even more. The ratios between the
first six gears are sportily short, while the top gear ratio is lengthened
to cut down the revs. The optional quattro four-wheel drive system is also
a competition-beating feature of the A3 within the premium compact class,
and is available for four of the engine variants. It comes as standard with
the V6. The central multi-plate clutch responds extremely rapidly when called
upon to redistribute the engine power across the front and rear axles. This
increases stability, traction and driving pleasure.
Suspension
The standard-fit dynamic suspension system provides
safety, dynamic performance and comfort – typically Audi. The precision
and consistency of the handling is founded on high-tech solutions such as
the four-link rear suspension and the economy-boosting electromechanical
power steering system. The optional Audi magnetic ride adaptive shock absorber
control system is yet another high-tech feature, varying its control
characteristic in milliseconds within two basic maps in response to the
driver’s input.
The equipment, specifications, and prices stated
herein refer to the model line offered for sale in Germany. Subject to change
without notice; errors and omissions excepted. |
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