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NEWS
Audi launches two new A3 Sportback variants
1.8 TFSI quattro and super-frugal 1.4 TFSI CoD join the local rangeThe Aussie-spec Audi A3 Sportback range is ballooning, with two new models added to the existing range.
Audi has launched the higher-performance A3 1.8 TFSI quattro to fill a niche demand for a premium model with all-wheel drive surefootedness, but without the impost and extroverted looks of the S3 Sportback, when that model arrives in December.
And also joining the range is the A3 1.4 TFSI CoD, which offers green-motivated buyers a variant that will salve their collective conscience by keeping fuel consumption and carbon emissions low.
"This vehicle that we're launching today – with 'Cylinder on Demand' technology – will allow Audi to have the lowest fuel consumption and the lowest emissions of any petrol-powered model in its class," said Andrew Doyle, Audi Australia MD, during the cars' local launch earlier this week.
The COD model is priced at $37,900 – not too far above the entry-level variant at $35,600, and in the same 'Attraction' level of trim. But the CoD ('Cylinder on Demand') engine develops more power and torque, for lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. At 103kW and 250Nm, the CoD model develops 13kW and 50Nm more than the standard 1.4 TFSI Attraction. Acceleration for the 0-100km/h sprint is improved also – down from 9.3 to 8.4 seconds – with fuel consumption also reduced, from 5.0 to 4.7L/100km in the combined-cycle test.
Audi has achieved the two-cylinder mode operation with none of the NVH compromises evident in other cars that shut down cylinders to conserve fuel. Under light loads, the Audi will shut down cylinders 2 and 3, leaving just 1 and 4 to continue producing power – albeit only once each for every two revolutions of the crankshaft.
While Audi offers buyers the no-charge option of a manual transmission for each variant, the CoD model comes with a seven-speed S tronic (dual-clutch) transmission by default, and the 1.8 quattro is fitted as standard with a six-speed S tronic box.
As for the entry-level A3 Sportback, the CoD model rides on 16-inch alloys and 205/55 tyres. Standard features include: tyre pressure monitor, reverse parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, auto-on/off headlights, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, multi-function leather steering wheel with shift paddles, leather upholstery, MMI infotainment system with eight-speaker MP3-compatible CD audio system and electric windows/mirrors.
The 1.8 TFSI quattro model is priced at $45,500 and is trimmed to the Ambition level. It introduces all-wheel drive to the new A3 Sportback range, embracing an oil pump-driven clutch system for drive to the rear wheels. Effectively an on-demand system, the quattro final drive ensures optimal traction and grip even when the engine is producing its full output – 132kW and 280Nm. The 1.8-litre engine is the third-generation of EA888 four-cylinder, introducing thin-walled cylinders, integrated exhaust manifold, new crankshaft, new balancer shafts and a plastic sump to knock 8kg off the weight of the engine.
Induction is by a hybrid (port and direct) injection system, turbocharged and intercooled – with the intercooler itself built into the inlet manifold, which is located at the front of the car. The port injectors operate at lower engine operating speeds and offer improved fuel charge formation with the fuel and air mixed earlier in the ports. Direct injection operates on start-up and under higher loads, while the two systems combine under high loads and at high engine speeds.
Acceleration (0-100km/h) takes just 6.8 seconds and the fuel consumption is rated at 6.6L/100km.
Standard features for the 1.8 TFSI quattro – over and above the specification of the 1.4 CoD model's Attraction level – include 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/45 tyres, leather-trimmed sports seats with electric adjustment, high-gloss decorative trim, front fog lights, full colour infotainment system, Audi Drive Select and multi-function leather-bound three-spoke sports steering wheel with shift paddles.
These are the last variants to join the A3 Sportback range, although the S3 performance variant is timed for local launch in December, and the sedan family (in both A3 and S3 variants) will be arriving in Australia from the first quarter of next year.
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Written byKen Gratton
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