The New A3 Sportback: Larger Body, Downsized Engine

In March 2012,Geneva International Motor Showit debuted.A3 three-door hatchbackwas followed by the "Sportback," a five-door hatchback model, which celebrated its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show.



The new "A3 Sportback," like the previously announced three-door model, features an exterior design crafted with Audi's latest design language. Distinctive features include LED lamps integrated into the headlights and taillights, and a form that appears sculpted from a clean, high-quality block of material. This design aesthetic is shared across Audi's other premium lineups.



The body dimensions are 4,310mm long, 1,780mm wide, and 1,425mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,636mm. Compared to the current model (4,290mm long, 1,765mm wide, 1,430mm high, with a 2,575mm wheelbase), it is slightly larger in all dimensions except height. Notably, the extended wheelbase, stretched by 58mm, contributes to a more spacious interior.



Furthermore, the new "A3" prioritizes weight reduction. Despite incorporating numerous premium features comparable to higher-end models, the vehicle's weight has been trimmed down to 1,205kg for the "1.4 TFSI" model. This weight represents a reduction of approximately 175kg compared to the current "1.4 TFSI" grade (Japanese specification).



The "A3 Sportback" will be offered with four gasoline engine options and three diesel engine options. All gasoline engines are direct-injection turbocharged "TFSI" units. The 1.2-liter inline-four turbo engine in the "1.2 TFSI" produces a maximum output of 77kW (105ps) and peak torque of 175Nm (17.8kgm). The 1.4-liter inline-four turbo engine in the "1.4 TFSI" generates a maximum output of 90kW (122ps) and peak torque of 200Nm (20.4kgm). Additionally, a higher-output version of the "1.4 TFSI" engine is planned, delivering 103kW (140ps) and 250Nm (25.5kgm) from the same displacement.



Meanwhile, the "1.8 TFSI" is equipped with a 1.8-liter inline-four turbo engine. This unit, featuring technologies such as Audi Valvelift System, produces a maximum output of 132kW (180ps) and peak torque of 250Nm (25.5kgm). Both engines offer flexibility with maximum torque available from low RPMs and excellent fuel efficiency. Carbon dioxide emissions have also been reduced compared to previous models, with figures of 114g/km for the "1.2 TFSI," 123g/km or 110g/km for the "1.4 TFSI," and 130g/km for the "1.8 TFSI."



Inside, the most significant update is the adoption of the next-generation MMI (Multi Media Interface). The monitor is positioned prominently on the upper dashboard for easy viewing, and the rotary MMI control dial has been made more compact while remaining intuitive to use. Furthermore, an electromagnetic parking brake, similar to those found in higher-end models, has been implemented. Thanks to the extended wheelbase, the cabin is spacious, offering ample room for three adults in the rear seats despite its compact car classification. The luggage compartment capacity is 380 liters in normal configuration, and this can be expanded to a class-leading 1,220 liters (VDA) by folding down the rear seats.