Are you a fan of Audi's diesel models? If so, give yourself a pat on the back--because it's thanks to you that Audi has decided to bring its five-door Audi A3 TDI Sportback to the U.S. Demand for the model has been so great from Audi TDI fans that the German automaker has seen fit to bring it to the U.S, alongside the already-announced A3 TDI sedan. Audi's boasts of a car with coupe-like looks and crossover utility is perhaps stretching it for a compact hatch, but the model will certainly give buyers another option, and an alternative to Volkswagen's impending Golf TDI.

The A3 TDI Sportback uses an all-new 2.0-liter clean diesel engine, soon to be found in several of Volkswagen and Audi's smaller models. It develops 150 horsepower--10 hp more than the old TDI unit--and 236 lb-ft of torque, from just 1,750 rpm. Unlike its Volkswagen cousins, the A3 TDI Sportback has just one transmission option, a six-speed S Tronic dual-clutch automatic. Performance will be brisk, while economy should comfortably top that of the old 34 mpg A3 TDI Sportback. In the newly-announced Jetta TDI, VW is claiming figures of 37 mpg combined, 32 mpg city and 45 mpg highway with a manual gearbox.

Just like the A3 sedan, the Sportback will offer a host of in-car technology and infotainment features. These range from Audi's MMI multimedia system through Audi drive select (to choose between sporty or fuel-efficient drive settings) to, 4G LTE wireless broadband connectivity and Bang & Olufsen audio.

The Audi A3 TDI Sportback won't be the only A3 hatchback coming to the States, however. The upcoming A3 e-tron Sportback plug-in hybrid uses the same bodyshell, and will offer even greater performance from its 204-horsepower, 1.4-liter hybrid powertrain. Audi suggests the e-tron will be ideal for the average American commute, while its diesel counterpart should appeal to those who regularly travel longer distances.

The TDI Sportback is touted to arrive sometime during the 2015 calendar year, while its sedan counterpart is expected later this year. For more news from the New York Auto Show, head over to our dedicated hub.

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