SPY PICS: Steady as she goes for next Audi A3

Don’t adjust your set.

These conniption-inducing images are the first of Audi’s all-new A3, snapped on public roads by the Carparazzi spy pix team.

The paisley three-door hatch will represent a step up from its VW equivalent, the current sixth generation Golf, because it is based on the VW group’s new MQB platform that features extensive use of aluminium and lightweight steel to keep weight down by as much as 80kg compared with current models.

The styling (or what can be seen of it) appears to carry plenty of influences from the most recent Audi models, especially the new A6. Sculpted headlight lenses, probably incorporating LEDs, a deep grille and a marked, upward-tilting side crease along with a new rear-end treatment identify Audi’s newest – even if the final result indicates the A3 will remain conservative rather than extreme in terms of styling.

Audi is expected to ramp-up quality even further in the A3 with new, classy materials employed throughout, along with the new, iDrive-style, MMI system.

The next A3 is expected to be available in three and five-door versions, as a two-door cabriolet and as an Avant station wagon. Importantly, Audi has confirmed a four-door sedan will be included in the lineup.

With claimed CO2 emissions beginning at as low as 89g/km, the new A3 engine lineup is expected to include 1.2-litre and 2.0-litre turbo petrol engines, as well as 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre turbodiesels.

Word is that the new A3 will make its debut at the 2012 Geneva motor show, going on sale in Euro markets not too long afterwards.

— with Carparazzi

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