Refined style, agile driving fun and elaborate technology - the Audi A3, the A3 Sportback, the A3 Cabriolet and the S3 are the sporty models in the compact segment. Audi now displays its premium character even more explicitly through new attentive details on both the exterior and the interior.
The sporty elegance of the Audi A3 models is already perfectly expressed in their design; their harmonious styling now acquires a host of new, exclusive touches. The single-frame grille element and the trims on the B-posts are painted in high-gloss black, the lower air inlets have chrome struts, the exterior mirrors are aerodynamically optimized and there are chrome strips in the door handles (except on the S3). At the rear, all A3 versions have a new diffuser insert with eye-catching separating edge, and the rear lights are tinted on the three-door version.
The paint finishes Volcano Red, Dakota Gray, Amethyst Gray and Scuba Blue are also new. There is a new wheel design for the sporty Ambition equipment line. The wheels available as options also extend the range. There is now a high-gloss 17-inch wheel in ten-spoke design, and two other new wheels are also available from quattro GmbH: a 17-inch aluminum wheel in a five twin-spoke design and an 18-inch wheel in five-arm rotor design.
Refined style: the interior
The interior of the Audi A3 models is likewise even more exclusive. The key features are dials with a gray background, a flat-bottomed leather sports steering wheel complete with trim ring, a new selector lever for the S tronic, black rings on the air vents and a high-gloss trim for the optional navigation system plus. There are gleaming aluminum-look trim inserts on the center console, mirror adjuster switch and window lifter buttons.
Powerful and efficient: the drive train
The engine range for the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback is very extensive - it comprises nine power units, five of them gasoline and four diesel. All are cutting-edge turbocharged four-cylinder direct-injection units badged as TFSI and TDI. They encapsulate all the strengths of Audi engine technology - performance, refinement, high torque and efficiency. Five of the nine engines also feature in the new A3 Cabriolet, with the most powerful version reserved for the dynamic S3 and S3 Sportback - the 2.0 TFSI developing 195 kW (265 hp).
The entry-level gasoline version is the 1.2 TFSI; it is a prime example of the merits of Audi's downsizing strategy - prioritizing supercharging ahead of displacement. This four-cylinder power unit develops an ample 77 kW (105 hp) from a swept volume of 1,197 cm3 and generates a hefty 175 Nm of torque (129.07 lb-ft), yet averages just 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (42.77 US mpg). The most powerful spark ignition engine for the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback is the 2.0 TFSI with an output of 147 kW (200 hp). It is trumped only by the 2.0 TFSI on 195 kW (265 hp), which is reserved exclusively for the S3 versions.
The TDI range extends from the 1.6 TDI developing 66 kW (90 hp) to the 2.0 TDI, with an output of 125 kW (170 hp). The most efficient engine version in the car line - and one of the most efficient compact models on the market - is the Audi A3 1.6 TDI developing 77 kW (105 hp) and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque. It is available in three different versions, the most economical of which is an Audi A3 three-door version averaging 3.8 liters of fuel per 100 km (61.90 US mpg). In-detail modifications to the body and running gear contribute towards this excellent figure, which equates to CO2 emissions of just 99 grams per km (159.33 g/mile).
Audi fits a start-stop system including energy recovery on five engines in the three-door A3 and the Sportback - the 1.2 TFSI, the 1.4 TFSI, the 1.6 TDI developing 77 kW (105 hp), and the two 2.0 TDI versions with outputs of 103 kW and 125 kW (140 hp and 170 hp). In a new departure for compact cars, it is irrelevant whether a manual transmission or the S tronic dual-clutch transmission is fitted. It proves a big advantage in city traffic - it deactivates the engine while stationary and restarts it when the clutch is pressed or, on S tronic versions, the brake pedal released.
An energy recovery system that captures the energy released during braking is a standard feature of the 1.6 TDI with 66 kW (90 hp) engine and the 1.8 TFSI.
The range of transmission technologies is equally very diverse. Most engines in the Audi A3 car line come with six-speed manual transmission as standard; Audi can also supply the lightning-fast, extremely convenient S tronic in conjunction with many of its engines. It is fitted as standard with steering wheel shift paddles on the Ambition equipment line and S3. Depending on engine version, the dual-clutch transmission has six or seven speeds. The seven-speed version operates with dry clutches; the absence of an oil supply improves the transmission's efficiency yet further.
The option of power transmission to all four wheels likewise underscores the exceptional position that the Audi A3 enjoys in the premium compact class. Audi supplies quattro permanent all-wheel drive for four engine versions. The Cabriolet is the exception; on the other hand, quattro drive is standard on the S3 and S3 Sportback. Its electronic-control multi-plate clutch, mounted on the rear axle for a balanced weight distribution, apportions most of the engine's power to the front wheels in normal driving conditions. If need be, it diverts drive torque swiftly and adaptably to the rear wheels.
Smartly sporty: the running gear
The running gear of the Audi A3 car line combines a sporty character with superb safety and high comfort. Its precision and poise stem from technically elaborate solutions such as four-link rear suspension, which handles longitudinal and transverse forces independently, and the electromechanical power steering, which is as responsive as it is efficient.
On all versions with front-wheel drive, the ESP electronic stabilization program incorporates an electronic differential lock. When close to the limits of handling on bends, this intelligent software solution manages how the drive torque is distributed among the wheels by small, barely detectable brake applications. These suppress any understeering, improve traction and further enhance driving safety.
For the engines developing 103 kW (140 hp) and upwards, except on the Cabriolet, Audi supplies the adaptive damper control system Audi magnetic ride, which exploits the properties of an electromagnetic fluid. The dampers can be set for a comfortable or sporty characteristic. Within the parameters, the system adjusts the damping forces in milliseconds depending on the road conditions and the driver's style. The body sits 15 millimeters (0.59 in) lower with this system. There are also the options of conventional sports suspension and the supple S line sports suspension from quattro GmbH. The S3 comes complete with specially tuned 25 mm (0.98 in) lower S sports suspension.
Extensive: the equipment
The improved models in the Audi A3 family will be arriving at dealers in the early summer. Their extensive range of high-end options demonstrates their high technological caliber. These include the dynamic cornering light system adaptive light for the xenon plus headlamps, the high-beam assistant and the navigation system plus with MMI operating logic. It calculates routes particularly fast, has a higher resolution and features three-dimensional map graphics.
The parking assistant is another very attractive feature. When driving at slow speeds (up to 30 km/h, 18.64 miles) its ultrasound sensors scan the parking spaces parallel with the road; when it detects one that is large enough to reverse into, it then indicates this in the instrument cluster. All the driver need do is engage reverse and operate the accelerator, clutch and brakes - the car maneuvers independently and precisely into the space.
The new Audi TT offers handling that is both dynamic and precise. If the customer chooses the S line sport package or Audi magnetic ride, the body is...
Audi TTS and TTS Black Edition this has the effect of slightly reducing the power output to 306PS (from 310PS), but at the same time 0-62mph performance has...
The Audi TT RS has never been this masculine. The completely redrawn front end and the striking rear end give it a dynamic appearance. The quattro logo in...
A completely revised edition of a modern classic is ready to take center stage: The Audi TT and Audi TTS celebrate their world premieres at the 2014 Geneva...
A modern classic relaunched: Audi introduces the latest generation of the TT and TTS. The compact sports car enthralls with dramatic design, pronounced...
Audi is sending the most powerful TT ever into the competitive field. Its newly developed five-cylinder engine delivers 400 hp - accompanied by...
Dynamic design, enthralling performance and exemplary efficiency - the Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster are now more attractive than ever. The design of...
The Audi TTS, both in Coupé and Roadster body styles, combines enthralling sportiness with cultivated comfort. Its two-liter TFSI with the large...
Audi is once again producing a five-cylinder engine - and a very special one at that. Arriving at dealerships this summer, the Audi TT RS has a...
Even more powerful, even faster, even more dynamic: Early 2012 will see the launch of the Audi TT RS plus. This compact sports car, in both Coupé
A cult car, an icon - the first-generation Audi TT , launched in the autumn of 1998 - took the sports Coupe segment by storm and sharpened the brand...
Audi is taking the wraps off a new sports car - the Audi TTS, the top of the TT model line. It will be coming to dealer showrooms in the early summer.
The success and popularity of the TT's iconic design gave many automotive designers (and manufacturers) greater latitude to experiment with bold, distinctive...
The production model was launched as a coupé in September 1998, followed by a roadster in August 1999, based on the Volkswagen A platform used for...
The new Audi A1 Sportback also emphasizes a resemblance to the Audi Ur-quattro and Sport quattro when viewed from the side: The wide, flat sloping...
The exterior design of the Audi A1 Citycarver is continued in the interior, with clear lines, taut surfaces and a high-quality finish. In the style of...
Audi A1 Sportback is consistently sporty and its defining lines are striking. When the most powerful engine is selected - the 1.8 TFSI - the visual impression...
A clear sign of the popularity of the Audi A1 and A1 Sportback is the over 500,000 cars sold since its market launch in 2010. The Audi compact models are...
Like all Audi S models, the Audi S1 Sportback also come with quattro permanent all-wheel drive onboard. At its heart is a hydraulic multi-plate clutch located...
A great name makes a comeback: Audi is presenting the S1 and the S1 Sportback, the new flagship models in the compact A1 model line. Their 2.0 TFSI...
Audi is introducing a whole new dimension to the compact class with the all-new Audi A1. It is dynamic and high quality, emotional and individual. It...
Audi is extending the A1 family - the Audi A1 Sportback is coming in early 2012. The five-door model is emotional and individual, communicative and...
Audi is crowning its successful A1 model series with an exclusive top-of-the-line model. The dynamic Audi A1 quattro, limited to just 333 units, moves to...
Compared to its predecessor, the new Audi Q3 has an even more emotional design.The wide Singleframe and the sleekly tapered headlights are fully integrated...
Customers for the new Audi Q3 have many options for customizing their car. These include a contrasting paint finish for the attachments in the lower body...
Audi RS Q3 and the Audi RS Q3 Sportback are synonymous with strength and outstanding performance. Virtues that are also reflected in the design. The Singleframe...
Since its market launch in fall 2011, the Q3 model series has been a successful model for the Audi brand. But Audi is also constantly improving good and...
Audi makes the bestselling Audi Q3 even more attractive. New details in the exterior design more sharply differentiate the design and sport trim lines as...
The new Audi RS Q3, the dynamic spearhead of the Q3 model series, is now even more distinctive and powerful. Its 2.5 TFSI engine satisfies the Euro 6...
The new Audi RS Q3 performance joins the RS6 Avant performance and the RS7 Sportback performance as the third member of the RS performance family. As the...
Audi is venturing into a new market segment: The Audi Q3 is a premium SUV in a compact-class form. It is sporty, efficient and versatile - a vehicle that...
Audi is presenting the RS Q3 at the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show, the first RS model for the successful Q line-up. It combines outstanding everyday...
Audi A2 is considered to be ahead of its time in design terms - but the avant-garde styling has not won favour with customers. Audi was reported to be...
When the Audi quattro first appeared at the Geneva Motor Show in 1980, it introduced a means of transmitting power that was entirely new in the passenger...
The Audi Sport Quattro was a Quattro programme car developed for homologation for Group B rallying in 1984, and sold as a production car in limited...
Audi quattro weighed 1,290 kilograms and could sprint from 0 to 100 kmh in 7.1 seconds and reach a top speed of over 220 kmh. Its permanent traction, firm, sporty...
Audi Q3 Sportback appears much longer than its sister model Q3. In addition, the SUV-coupe is almost three centimeters flatter, and thus has a more muscular...
With its downward sloping coupe-like roof line, the Audi RS Q3 Sportback is with a height of 1,557 millimeters (5.1 ft) 45 millimeters (1.8 in) lower than the RS Q3.
The Audi A3 and A3 Sportback, the premium compact models from Audi, are raising their sporty profile with a raft of improvements and an accentuated design.
Audi is further expanding the sporty profile of the A3 and the Audi A3 Sportback. High-tech components, such as the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch...
The Audi A3 and A3 Sportback are the sporty models in the compact segment. The upscale equipment and trim underscores their elegant style. Audi optionally...
Momentum is also available at the dynamic pinnacle of the A3 family: The S3 is joined by the Audi S3 Sportback. It has the same immensely powerful engine...
The dynamic range-topping member of the A3 family sports new features, too. There is now a second top model on the market, with the Audi S3 Sportback...
Big performance in a small package - the Audi RS3 Sportback is the newest member of the dynamic Audi RS family. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder...
More dynamic - more progressive - more emotional: This is how the A3 Sportback and Sedan present themselves following the model upgrade.
The suspension of the A3 allstreet is 15 mm higher than the standard suspension in the A3 Sportback. Together with the larger wheel diameter, this results in 30 mm more...
With the model upgrade, the Audi S3 has an even sportier and tauter appearance. The hexagonal, frameless Singleframe features a new structure that is noticeably flatter and wider.
The third generation of the RS3 Sportback and the second generation of the RS3 Sedan were launched in 2021. With 400 PS and an increase in torque to 500 Nm, the five-cylinder...
Audi A3 Sportback has a sporty and taut road stance. The front section is dominated by a wide, hexagonal Singleframe with a honeycomb grille. It accentuates...
The new Audi S3 Sportback and the S3 Sedan can be fitted with matrix LED headlights on request. Their digital daytime running lights consist of a pixel array...
Audi RS3 is the first Audi model that comes standard-equipped with a torque splitter. It replaces the rear axle differential and the previous multiple disc clutch...
The highlight in the interior of the Audi A3 is the Audi virtual cockpit. This innovative operating concept is available for the first time in the compact class.
The successful model from Audi is now even more attractive: The Audi A3 approaches the starting line with new driver assistance systems and engines as well...
Audi engineers have integrated S3-specific control for the Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) and the multi-plate clutch. The result: even greater driving...
The sporty Audi S3 version comes with numerous innovations and has even further enhanced its dynamic potential. With numerous driver assistance systems...
Behind the impressive performance of the Audi RS3 Sportback is the world's most powerful production five-cylinder engine - the 2.5 TFSI. It delivers 294 kW...
In 1996, Audi launched the premium compact segment with the A3 - now the third generation of the successful model is ready at the starting line. The new...
Sporty, versatile and functional - Audi presented the new A3 Sportback. The compact five-door model with the spacious luggage compartment is...
221 kW (300 hp) and 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque, from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.8 seconds - the new Audi S3 offers best-in-class performance. Its...
221 kW (300 hp). 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque. From 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.0 seconds. The new Audi S3 Sportback offers best-in-class...
Audi RS3 Sportback features the latest generation of our 2.5 liter, five-cylinder engine - the most powerful production engine in the modular transverse matrix.
The Audi A3 and A3 Sportback, the premium compact models from Audi, are raising their sporty profile with a raft of improvements and an accentuated design.
Refined style, agile driving fun and elaborate technology - the Audi A3, the A3 Sportback, the A3 Cabriolet and the S3 are the sporty models in the compact...
Audi is further expanding the sporty profile of the A3 and the Audi A3 Sportback. High-tech components, such as the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch...
The Audi A3 and A3 Sportback are the sporty models in the compact segment. The upscale equipment and trim underscores their elegant style. Audi optionally...
Momentum is also available at the dynamic pinnacle of the A3 family: The S3 is joined by the Audi S3 Sportback. It has the same immensely powerful engine...
The dynamic range-topping member of the A3 family sports new features, too. There is now a second top model on the market, with the Audi S3 Sportback...
Big performance in a small package - the Audi RS3 Sportback is the newest member of the dynamic Audi RS family. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder...
In the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, Audi launched the second-generation of the A3, the Typ 8P, designed by Walter de'Silva. Originally launched as a 3-door...
A3 Sportback is 8 cm (3 in) longer than the base 3-door body, and includes improved rear cabin space and a larger luggage compartment (370 litres).
Dynamism, sportiness and sophistication - the Audi A3 occupies an outstanding position in the premium compact class. Now its top-of-the-range version is...
The A3 was initially available only with a 3-door hatchback body, to present a more sporty image than the Golf, in both front and four-wheel drive.
This was the first Volkswagen Group model to use the "PQ34" or "A4" platform, bearing a close resemblance to the contemporary Volkswagen Golf Mk4...
Audi S3 was sold in the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia, but was not officially marketed in the United States. The S3 was facelifted in 2001...
The S3 was facelifted in 2001, where it was given one-piece headlights/indicator units, different front wings, rear lights clusters and some minor upgrades...
The original A3 (or Typ 8L) was introduced in the European market in 1996, marking Audi's return to the lower market segments since the demise of the Audi...
The four-wheel-drive A3 1.8T quattro used either the 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) or 180 PS (130 kW; 180 hp) engine, and the same Haldex Traction-based...
The first generation S3 is built on the same A platform of the Audi A3, Volkswagen Golf, Audi TT, SEAT León and Škoda Octavia. The straight-4...
Sporty, elegant, emotion-packed - the new Audi A3 Cabriolet is making its appearance in perfect time for spring 2008. The open-top Audi A3 is the premium...
Even from the front, the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class conveys power and dynamism. The front view is dominated by the forward-sloping bonnet with its two power bulges...
Mercedes-AMG A35 is equipped with a 48-volt auxiliary power supply and belt-driven starter-generator (RSG) and achieves an output of 225 kW (306 hp)...
For the market launch of the new Mercedes-AMG A-Class, a very special version of the Mercedes-AMG A45 S 4MATIC+ will also be available exclusively and for a limited time...
The comprehensive noise insulation concept of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class includes components such as the air and coolant management systems...
The 2.0-litre turbo engine in the A35 4MATIC is an entirely new development and is based on the M 260 four-cylinder engine in the new A-Class. The new drive system...
A45 S and CLA45 S even go a step further: yellow highlights reoccur throughout the interior to emphasise the motor racing character of the more powerful models.
The new-generation A-Class from Mercedes-Benz reconciles the conflicting aims of sporty performance and enhanced comfort: With DYNAMIC SELECT, the driver...
Agile and safe on country roads, ultra-dynamic on the racetrack: The Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG presented in 2013 exceeded all expectations, and immediately...
The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is opening up a new chapter in the compact segment: markedly emotive in design, with powerful engines ranging from 80 kW (109...
The A45 AMG sees Mercedes-AMG embarking on a new era. For the first time in the company's history extending back over more than 45 years, Mercedes-Benz's...
With more than 500,000 units produced within three and a half years, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is among the bestsellers in the Mercedes-Benz passenger car...
Since its world premiere in 1997, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class has made a name for itself as a trendsetter and innovative leader in its class.
It is estimated that the W169 A-Class engines provide a 40% increase in power and a 10% decrease in fuel consumption compared to W168 engines.
The A-class optionally includes a "Light & Sight" package which includes bi-xenon HID headlamps with gas-discharge bulbs; cornering lights...
With a strikingly flat front end that sits significantly lower to the road than its predecessor, the new BMW 1-Series signals its sporty character more than ever.
At the top of the model range is the BMW M135 xDrive with significantly enhanced performance characteristics. The BMW M model is powered by a 221 kW (300 hp) four-cylinder...
Viewed from the front, the BMW 1-Series immediately makes its mark with a new face and a reinterpretation of iconic BMW styling cues. The characteristic BMW kidney...
BMW M135i xDrive underscores its status as the sporting flagship of the range with exclusive looks and colour accents in Cerium Grey. This is the only model...
The engine in the BMW 128ti is a direct offshoot of the BMW Group's most powerful four-cylinder unit, which was developed for models including the BMW M135i...
The new 3-door and 5-door BMW 1-Series models come with a comprehensively revised engine line-up and additional measures designed to reduce fuel consumption...
The result is a "stretched" elegance which the BMW 1-Series 3-door encapsulates with particular aplomb. Its long doors with frameless windows and single-piece...
The BMW 1-Series is unmistakeably sporty: dynamic contours, the distinctive kidney grille, long bonnet and a sportily stylish rear define its appearance.
The BMW M135i occupies a stand-out position in the new BMW 1-Series model range, one which also underlines its position as the leading sports performer in...
This all combines to give the BMW M140i an output of 250 kW (340 hp) and maximum torque of 500 Nm (369 lb-ft), which can be summoned from...
The premium compact BMW 1-Series is already synonymous with driving pleasure. Now, the second generation offers state-of-the-art engine and suspension...
The sporty and elegant design of the new three-door model, along with additional engine choices, are distinguishing features that sharpen the unmistakable...
The performance potential of the BMW M135i is reflected in its individual exterior and interior design features, which are integral parts of the series...
The new BMW 1 Series goes on sale in Spring 2007 and features a model line up that includes the most fuel efficient production vehicle BMW has ever...
To herald the introduction of the latest generation of engines, BMW's designers have refreshed the interior and exterior styling of the BMW 1-Series 5-door.
The first-generation BMW 1 Series is a compact executive car produced by the German automaker BMW since 2004, when it replaced the BMW 3 Series Compact as...
The smallest yet most expressively designed of all Volvos, the C30 has a radical and refreshing appearance. Its unique styling creates its distinct...
Volvo presented a driveable electric car prototype in September 2009. The Volvo C30 BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) now being shown at the 2010 North...
The Volvo C30 is a compact SportsCoupe from Volvo aimed at youthful, sporty drivers. The smallest yet most expressively designed of all Volvos, the C30's...
Volvo Cars gave its bestselling Volvo V40 and V40 Cross Country the new face of Volvo for Model Year 2017 with trim updates across the range. Central to...
The Volvo V40 will also receive the new 'rank marks' that were first introduced on the XC90, visualising trim levels and variants and a total of eight new...
The all-new Volvo V40 is a sporty five-door hatchback that sets new ride handling, fuel efficiency and safety standards in its class. Its eye-catching...
Volvo Car Corporation paved the way for a totally new segment with the V70 Cross Country already in 1997. Now, 15 years later, the new Volvo V40 Cross...
The Lexus CT 200h's cabin is defined by its comfort, high equipment specifications levels and use of fine quality materials with excellent visual and...
Reinforcing the progressive luxury that is the hallmark of the Lexus brand, the new Lexus CT 200h compact luxury hatchback offers more sophisticated...
The Lexus CT 200h marks the introduction of the first, and only, full hybrid vehicle to the core of the premium compact segment. Lexus' first ever compact,...
Citroën has released first details for the new Citroën DS4, a unique and attractive blend of creativity, dynamism, exclusivity and versatility.
The Infiniti Q30 active compact, which debuted at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, is a new type of premium vehicle for a new type of consumer. Representing...
The characteristic look of the new Mini Clubman from the front is also a result of the modified design of the circular headlamps. The standard halogen headlamps...
The resulting pulling power enables the new engine of the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman to produce an acceleration performance of 0 to 100 kmh in 4.9 seconds...
The new generation of the MINI model family continues to grow. With the new MINI Clubman it now conquers the premium compact segment, too. The new model...
The individual style of the new Mini John Cooper Works Clubman is also defined by its exclusive fittings. It is launched as standard with LED headlamps...
The unique character of the MINI Clubman is obvious at first sight. The roofline of the car extends across all three pillars, merging smoothly into the...
Production of John Cooper Works-tuned cars is all set to resume at MINI's Plant Oxford after the launch of the second-generation MINI Cooper S Hatch and...