Posted on Wednesday 23 April 2008
Audi has revealed the new face of the A3 range with the unveiling today of the 2009 A3 and A3 Sportback. The A3 has been a stunning seller for Audi since the launch of the first generation model back in 1996, with over 1.9 million units built since then, and the latest facelifted version is likely to continue that success thanks to a raft of new technologies not normally found in this segment.
The new A3 lineup is now available with Audi’s S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, magnetic ride adaptive suspension and parking aids both front and rear. Other changes include the addition of the new Sportback model, which is now available in performance S3 trim complete with a 265hp (195kW) powerplant and quattro AWD traction.
New visual details include a re-sculpted front bumper and hood, a large single-frame radiator grille, revised headlights with optional bi-xenon globes and LED daytime running lights, side mirrors with integrated turn signals and new door handles.
As before, Audi is bringing the A3 and A3 Sportback onto the market with eight different engines – five petrol and three diesel versions. The lineup includes a 102hp (75kW) 1.6L petrol unit, 125hp (92kW) 1.4L TFSI, 160hp (118kW) 1.8L TFSI, 200hp (147kW) 2.0L TFSI and a range topping 3.2L V6 with 250hp (184kW) on tap. The diesel range includes a 1.9L TDI with 105hp (77kW) and two 2.0L TDI units with either 140hp (103kW) or 170hp (125kW).
The 1.6L petrol is capable of running on ethanol, while the most efficient motor – the 1.9 TDI in an ‘e’ economy model – consumes just 4.5L of diesel per 100km (52mpg).
Shipping will commence in the middle of the year, with prices in Europe starting at €20,350.
The U.S launch for the car is scheduled for the third quarter of the year and only the five-door hatch will be available. Two different petrol engines will be available: a 2.0L TFSI with 200hp (147kW) and a 3.2L V6 with 250hp (186kW).
I wanna see a show of hands: who would take this very handsome car and who would take the abominable Toolmobile that is the BMW 1 series?
I’d prefer the volvo V50 to both. mostly because the 1 series is fugly, and you cant get an S3 in north america. gimme the vulva.
Why though are the engines so under powered?
CJ, those are the worldwide engines choices. I know this seems hard for Americans (and particularly readers of this site) to comprehend, but gas taxes and company car taxes on large engines mean that small engines are very popular in the EU. One day perhaps we’ll all wake up and realize that power to weight ratios are more important than raw power, anyway. These are relatively small engines but it’s a relatively small car, so it will still drive at Autobahn speeds. Finally, I would query the Diesel’s economy. It might be based on the British gallon, which is 4.5 litres instead of 3.8.
Very handsome car. Audi’s also reflect beautiful interiors - imo their cars just don’t seem as sturdy/rigid when it comes to closing doors/trunks. BMW’s & Mercedes yield a bank vault
sound when closing and the doors feel very sturdy - the recent Audi’s (a3,5,6,8) I’ve sat in have a very lite feel to their doors - just not very reassuring. I wish BMW could really study the Audi interiors and give us something that was less bland I also wish Audi would import the S3 to the states someday.
1st AUDI A3,—–2nd bmw 1 series—3rd mercedes b class