High-riding Audi A3 Cityhopper crossover on the way
Jacked-up Audi A3 Cityhopper to get tougher A4 Allroad-inspired body but to remain front-wheel drive onlyAudi's next-generation A3 hatchback will feature a new Audi A3 Cityhopper crossover model to bridge the gap between the Q2 and Q3 SUV.
According to Brit mag,
, the current well-established Allroad name was considered for the Audi A3 Cityhopper but ruled out as the small hatch lacks the option of all-wheel drive.Despite exclusive front-drive, the A3 Cityhopper is said to incorporate unmistakable Allroad styling cues, including a raised ride height, tough black plastic protection for the fenders and sills, plus bash plates.
It's not known if Audi will offer a rough road protection package that in the Allroad models introduces underbody armour.
Set to be a more premium rival cars like the Ford Focus Active and the Kia XCeed, it's thought to offset the lack of all-wheel with a specific off-road driving mode that uses the car's ABS to enhance traction on loose or slippery surfaces.
Under the skin, the new A3 Cityhopper will benefit from the A3 hatch's move to the Volkswagen Group's latest MQB Evo platform that will also underpin the next mark 8 Volkswagen Golf.
The new architecture will bring weight savings and increased stiffness as well as introduce new driver assistance aids including a semi-autonomous cruise control.
The updated platform will also bring 48-volt mild hybrid powertrains across the A3 range, while inside the cabin a longer wheelbase will liberate more room for passengers.
The new Audi A3 is tipped to be launched at the Frankfurt motor show this September with the hatch to be on sale before the end of the year.
The A3 Cityhopper, meanwhile, isn't expected to arrive until 2022.
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