Audi A3 Plug-in Hybrid to Launch in Japan

Audi A3 Sportback e-tron

A3 Plug-in Hybrid Introduced to Japan

Audi Japan is adding a plug-in model to its hatchback "A3 Sportback." Sales are set to begin within the year.

Text by HORIGUCHI Yoshihiro (OPENERS)

Over 50km Range on Electric Power Alone

The "A3 Sportback e-tron," featuring a plug-in hybrid powertrain integrated into Audi's five-door hatchback "A3 Sportback," is being introduced to Japan.

The powertrain combines a 1.4 TFSI engine producing a maximum output of 110 kW (150 ps) and peak torque of 250 Nm (25.5 kgm) with an electric motor generating 80 kW (109 ps) and 330 Nm (33.7 kgm) of torque. The system's total output is 150 kW (204 ps) with a maximum torque of 350 Nm. A dedicated 6-speed S tronic transmission, incorporating the electric motor, is used.

Fuel economy in the JC08 mode is 23.3 km/ℓ. It boasts sufficient performance with a top speed of 222 km/h and 0-100 km/h acceleration in 7.6 seconds. In EV mode, the top speed is limited to 130 km/h.

The lithium-ion battery, located beneath the rear seats, has a capacity of 8.7 kWh, providing an electric-only driving range of 52.8 km according to Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism standards. Charging takes approximately 3 hours with a 200V fast charger or about 9 hours with a 100V charger.

The hybrid powertrain offers four selectable modes via a button on the center console: "EV mode" for electric-only driving, "Hybrid Auto" for optimal combination of engine and motor output, "Hybrid Charge" for actively charging the battery, and "Hybrid Hold" to maintain the current battery level for later EV use.

The standard "Audi drive select" system allows adjustment of engine and transmission characteristics. Drivers can enjoy sporty performance by selecting dynamic mode and using the paddle shifters, or opt for quiet EV cruising in comfort mode.

Audi A3 Sportback e-tron

A3 Plug-in Hybrid Introduced to Japan

Exclusive Exterior and Interior Features

The A3 Sportback e-tron features distinct elements compared to the standard model, including a unique single-frame grille with emphasized horizontal bars, side skirts, front and rear bumpers, specially designed 17-inch alloy wheels, and optional roof rails. The instrument cluster replaces the tachometer on the left with a power meter, allowing drivers to monitor charging and discharging status.

The dashboard is equipped with the standard "MMI Navigation plus" system, which provides access to various information and services via the internet. It includes dedicated PHEV menus for displaying charging status and motor/gasoline usage. Audi connect e-tron service will also be available, enabling smartphone or website control of charging timers, remote climate control, and door lock status checks.

In conjunction with the plug-in hybrid launch, Audi Japan has designated approximately half of its dealerships, 55 locations, as "e-tron stores." These stores will handle sales and maintenance of the A3 Sportback e-tron and will be equipped with five charging stations each. This initiative prepares for the upcoming launch of Audi's plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, such as the new Q7 PHEV and the "e-tron quattro" electric SUV concept recently announced for production.

The A3 Sportback e-tron is priced at 5.64 million yen. However, with government subsidies for clean energy vehicles potentially reducing the cost by up to 610,000 yen, the effective purchase price can be as low as 5.03 million yen for eligible buyers. Audi also plans to offer support of up to 150,000 yen for home charging equipment installation. While the exact launch date is unconfirmed, sales are expected to commence within the year.