Audi has taken the wraps off the new 2014 A3 and S3 sedans. Positioned as the brand’s new entry level sedan, the A3 sedan has almost similar dimensions to the original A4 that was introduced almost two decades ago.
A variety of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engine options are available for the A3 sedan:
- 1.4-litre TFSI with 103 kW and 250 Nm of torque
- 1.8-litre TFSI with 132 kW and 250 Nm of torque
- 2.0-litre TFSI with 155 kW and 280 Nm of torque
- 2.0-litre TDI with 110 kW and 320 Nm of torque (diesel)
Unveiled along with the A3 sedan is the top of the range S3 which is equipped with a high-output 2.0-litre TFSI that develops 221 kW and 380 Nm of torque. In S-tronic twin-clutch transmission form, the S3 needs just 4.9 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h, while the six-speed manual takes 5.3 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
The S3 is distinguished by a more aggressively styled front and rear bumpers, deeper side skirts and a rear lip spoiler. It rides 25mm lower on a sport-tuned suspension.
When launched in the US, both A3 and S3 will come equipped with leather upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity, a panoramic sunroof and an MMI infotainment system with a seven-inch LCD.
The A3 sedan is expected to be priced from 25,000 euros when it goes on sale in Germany in the third quarter of this year. The A3 range will launch in Australia in the first quarter of 2014.
