Audi A3
_2.0_TDI_5-door_Sportback_(2011-04-02)_01.jpg) | |
| Manufacturer | Audi |
|---|---|
| Production | 1996–present |
| Class | Small family car |
| Layout | transverse front engine, front-wheel drive or quattro on-demand four-wheel drive |
| Platform | Volkswagen Group A platform series |
The Audi A3 is a small family car produced by the German automaker Audi since 1996. Two generations of A3 exist, both based on the Volkswagen Group A platform, which they share with several other models such as the Audi TT, Volkswagen Golf, Volkswagen Caddy and Volkswagen Touran as well as SEAT León, SEAT Toledo and Škoda Octavia.
First generation (Typ 8L, 1996–2003)
 Audi A3 5-Door (post-facelift) | |
| Production | Germany: 1996–2003 Brasil: 2000–2006 |
|---|---|
| Assembly | Ingolstadt, Germany; Curitiba, Brazil (Audi Senna) |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback |
| Platform | Volkswagen Group A4 (PQ34) platform |
| Engine | 1.6 L I4 1.8L I4 20v 1.8L I4 20v Turbo 1.9L TDI I4 |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual 6-speed Manual 4-speed Automatic 5-speed Automatic |
| Wheelbase | 2,513 mm (98.9 in) quattro: 2,518 mm (99.1 in) |
| Length | 4,152 mm (163.5 in) |
| Width | 1,735 mm (68.3 in) |
| Height | 1,423 mm (56.0 in) |
| Related | Audi S3Audi TT (8N) Mk1 SEAT León Mk1 SEAT Toledo Mk2 VW Golf Mk4 VW Jetta Mk4 VW New Beetle Škoda Octavia Mk1 |
| Designer | Peter Schreyer |
Planned for production from 1993 under the control of Matthias Müller, the original A3 (or Typ 8L) was introduced in the European market in 1996, marking Audi's return to the production of smaller cars following the demise of the Audi 50. This was the first Volkswagen Group model to use the "PQ34" or "A4" platform, bearing a natural close resemblance to its contemporary, the Volkswagen Golf Mk4. The car was initially available only with a three-door hatchback body, in order to present a more sporty image than the Golf, in both front- and four-wheel drive. All engines were an inline four-cylinder configuration, and were transversely mounted. After the A4, the Audi A3 was the second model in the Audi lineup to use five valves per cylinder.
In 1999, Audi expanded the range with the introduction of more powerful versions: a 1.8 Turbo rated 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp), and a 1.9 TDI diesel engine with Unit Injector "Pumpe Düse" (PD) technology and variable geometry turbocharger. 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 on-demand four-wheel drive system as the Audi S3 and the Audi TT. 1999 was also the year Audi was forced to bow to market demands and introduced a hastily-conceived five-door body that the company had not previously intended to produce.
In late 2000, the A3 range was revised with new headlights and rear light clusters, other minor cosmetic changes, an improved interior, and the introduction of a six-speed manual gearbox, on the 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp) 1.8 Turbo and the brand new 130 PS (96 kW; 128 hp) 1.9 TDI.
Audi's Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), traction-control and brake force distribution computer became standard equipment in some countries.
Although the first-generation Audi A3 was replaced in Europe in 2003, the first generation model continues to be sold in some markets. Production of the first generation model stopped in Brazil in 2006.
Safety
EuroNCAP tested a first generation Audi A3, 3-door hatchback with front airbags and seatbelt pretensioners as standard and scored it accordingly:
EuroNCAP after the test state "The column lock, adjuster lever and bracket presented hazards in the knee impact area for the driver. These could cause high loads on his upper legs and damage to his knees." They also criticise the A3 for offering almost no protection to pedestrians at all, leading to just 2 stars out of a possible 4.
Engines
The engines used are the same as for many other cars in the Volkswagen Group.
Gallery
Second generation (Typ 8P/8PA, 2003–present)
 | |
| Production | 2003–present |
|---|---|
| Assembly | Ingolstadt, Germany Jakarta, Indonesia (Garuda Matraman Motor) |
| Predecessor | Audi Cabriolet (for A3 cabriolet) |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback 5-door estate 2-door convertible |
| Platform | Volkswagen Group A5 (PQ35) platform |
| Engine | Petrol engines: 1.4 L I4 Turbo FSI (TFSI) 1.6 L I4 1.6 L I4 FSI 2.0 L I4 FSI 1.8 L I4 TFSI 2.0 L I4 TFSI 3.2 L VR6 Diesel engines: 1.6 L I4 TDI 1.9 L I4 TDI 2.0 L I4 TDI |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual 6-speed Manual 6-speed Automatic 6-speed S-Tronic 7-speed S-Tronic |
| Wheelbase | 2,578 mm (101.5 in) |
| Length | 3-door: 4,215 mm (165.9 in) 5-door: 4,285 mm (168.7 in) |
| Width | 1,765 mm (69.5 in) |
| Height | 1,420 mm (55.9 in) |
| Related | Audi TT (8J) Mk2 VW Golf/Rabbit Mk5 SEAT León II SEAT Toledo Mk3 SEAT Altea VW Jetta Mk5 Škoda Octavia II |
In the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, Audi launched the second-generation of the A3, the Typ 8P, designed by Walter de'Silva. Originally launched only as a three-door hatchback with four cylinder engines, it featured a new automobile platform (the PQ35 platform), a redesigned and more spacious interior, new petrol engines with Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI), and standard six-speed manual gearboxes (except on the base 1.6).
In mid 2003, the line was updated with two sports-orientated models, a 2.0 Turbo-FSI version rated 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp), and a 3.2 VR6 engine (for the first time) with 250 PS (184 kW; 247 hp). Haldex Traction-based quattro on-demand four wheel drive, and the S-Tronic semi-auto gearbox were introduced as options (quattro is standard on the VR6) on every model with engine over 140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp).
Body styles
The five-door A3 Sportback model was introduced in June 2004. The A3 Sportback is 80 mm (3 in) longer than the base three-door body, and includes improved rear cabin space and a larger luggage compartment (370 litres). It also received the new "single frame" front grille originally introduced in the A8 W12, which was later adopted across the whole A3 range.
Safety
EuroNCAP tested a second generation Audi A3, 3-door hatchback with front airbags, side airbags, seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters as standard and scored it accordingly:
Despite Audi increasing the protection inside the car for the driver and passengers, pedestrian safety actually got 33% worse compared to the first generation and EuroNCAP gave criticism for the car offering virtually no protection at all on the front end and scoring just 1 star from a possible 4. "A poor result for a new car" was the verdict given for pedestrian safety after the test.
North American launch
In 2005 the "S line" trim level, offering new decorative elements, became available and the 3-door A3 received the same front end styling features as the Sportback model. For the first time, the A3 became available in the North American market, exclusively with the Sportback body, with the base 2.0 straight-4 TFSI introduced in 2005 as a 2006 model, and the 3.2 VR6 quattro following in 2006.
2008 Revisions
In 2008, Audi introduced a number of changes to the A3 and S3. These include revised nose and tail styling, with a modified grille and the new "trademark" daytime running lights, common rail 2.0 TDI engines, 7-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission availability for the smaller non-U.S. engines, and optional "magnetic ride" adaptive shock absorbers. In addition, the range now includes an S3 Sportback model.
Audi A3 2.0 TDI clean diesel (2010-)
The A3 2.0 TDI clean diesel is a version of Audi's A3 2.0 TDI for the North American market, making it the second Audi TDI vehicle sold in North America, following the Audi Q7 TDI in 2008. It is a FWD vehicle with S-tronic transmission with Hill-hold assist, Sirius satellite radio, Leather seats and steering wheel, Auxiliary audio input, Dual-zone climate control, 17 in (431.8 mm) alloy wheels. The vehicle was unveiled at the 2009 North American International Auto Show. This US model would begin sale in the first quarter of 2010 as a 2010 model year vehicle.
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Engines
The engines used are the same as for many other cars in the Volkswagen Group.
In January 2007, the normally aspirated (non-turbo) 2.0 FSI was replaced by a new turbocharged 1.8 TFSI engine rated 160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp). It is available in front-wheel drive only.
In late 2007, Audi introduced a new 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp) 1.4L TFSI engine for the A3, replacing the 1.6 FSI engine, and a new diesel "e"-model. The "e"-model, Audi's equivalent of Volkswagen's BlueMotion, is available with the 1.9L TDI engine, and offers a more ecological car, with a CO2 emission below 120 g/km.
In June 2009, Audi announced the release of two models of A3 1.6 TDI for European market. The first uses Audi's start/stop and energy recovery system, and will produce 105 PS (77 kW; 104 hp). This engine will achieve approximately 4.1 L/100 km (69 mpg-imp; 57 mpg-US). The second engine does not use the same efficiency systems and will produce 90 PS (66 kW; 89 hp) will get 4.5 L/100 km (63 mpg-imp; 52 mpg-US). They went on sale in June 2009.
In August 2009, Audi announced that the 1.6 8-valve petrol engine would be replaced by a turbocharged 1.2 TFSI engine already found in VW's Polo and Golf models. This engine is rated at 105 PS (77 kW; 104 hp) and 175 N·m (129 lb·ft), emitting 127 g/km of CO2. As of April 2010, Audi has yet to release official specifications or prices for the 1.2 TSI model, as the 1.6 model has been made a special clearance model for clearing out 1.6 stock.
In March 2011, the line-up was expanded with the introduction of a more powerful 2.0 TDI with 170 PS 125 kW; 180 hp @4000.
S3 (Typ 8L, 1999-2003)
 | |
| Production | 1999-2003 |
|---|---|
| Assembly | Ingolstadt, Germany |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback |
| Layout | Transverse front Engine, Quattro On-Demand four-Wheel Drive |
| Platform | Volkswagen A4 (PQ34) |
| Engine | Petrol engine: 1.8 L I4 20v Turbo |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual |
Overview
The first generation S3 is built on the same A platform of the Audi A3, Volkswagen Golf Mk4, Audi TT, SEAT León and Škoda Octavia.
The straight-4 20v 1.8 L turbocharged petrol engine comes in two versions of power output: 210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp) and 225 PS (165 kW; 222 hp). Early models (1999–2001) had 210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp) which is said to be a de-tuned Audi TT engine, and was said to be reduced to lessen brand competition with the more powerful TT. Later models (2001–2003) had variable valve timing and 225 PS (165 kW; 222 hp). The engine provides a maximum 280 N·m (210 ft·lbf) of torque, most of which is available from 2200 through to 5500 rpm. This is the first time a small four-cylinder engine has been used in an Audi S-series car.
Although dubbed "quattro", the S3 uses a different "on-demand" four-wheel drive system. The Haldex Traction coupling adjusts the bias of torque distribution from the front to rear axle as grip requirements change - most of the time it operates as a front-wheel drive.
The S3 was sold in the United Kingdom, Europe, Mexico, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, but was not officially marketed in the United States.
The S3 was facelifted in 2000, where it was given one-piece headlights/indicator units, different front wings, rear lights clusters, and some minor upgrades to interior trim. There had been minor changes to the design previous to this, including digital clock on the dash.
Equipment
Standard features include xenon HID headlamps with high pressure washers and auto levelers, front fog lamps, 17" "Avus" alloy wheels with 225/45R17 tyres, electrically adjustable Recaro leather seats, climate control, alarm and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with traction control (ASR).
Options include a Bose sound system, boot/trunk or in-dash mounted 6 disc CD changer, metallic paint, 18 inch 9-spoke RSTT wheels, glass sunroof, centre arm rest, privacy glass (B-pillar backwards), auto dipping rear view mirror, parking assist, luggage net, heated front seats, cruise control, aluminium door mirror casings and part leather/alcantara (blue/silver/yellow) combination seat coverings. These items are standard in some export markets, where Audi is a prestigious brand.
S3 (Typ 8P/8PA, 2006-present)
 | |
| Production | 2006-present |
|---|---|
| Assembly | Ingolstadt, Germany |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback 5-door hatchback |
| Layout | Transverse front Engine, Quattro On-Demand four-Wheel Drive |
| Platform | Volkswagen Group A5 (PQ35) platform |
| Engine | Petrol engine: 2.0 L I4 FSI Turbo |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual 6-speed S-Tronic |
In August 2006, Audi announced the arrival of the second generation S3. The second generation Audi S3 - Typ 8P, is powered by a modified and uprated Volkswagen Group-sourced 2.0L Turbocharged FSI petrol engine, with a maximum output of 195 kW (265 PS; 261 bhp). As with all Audi S models, the design was done in-house by quattro GmbH. The engine features uprated high performance pistons, revised boost/fuel mapping, increased turbocharger size (KKK K04) and larger intercooler. The most powerful form of this widely used engine, and quattro four-wheel drive, makes for a 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) time of 5.5 s, and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
The chassis has had the spring rating and dampers revised, along with the body kit. Like its predecessor, although badged a "quattro" model, the S3 does not employ a Torsen centre differential (as in other common quattro models), but instead uses the Swedish Haldex Traction system in its on-demand four-wheel drive transmission, due to the transverse engine layout.
In the United Kingdom, the S3 is priced notably higher than many of its rivals. BMW's 130i M Sport offers 265 bhp (198 kW; 269 PS), but is slower to 100 km/h (62 mph) at 6.0 seconds. Other cars of similar power are a good deal cheaper; the Volkswagen Golf Mk5 R32 sports 184 kW (250 PS; 247 bhp), with 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) achieved in 6.2 seconds. The Vauxhall Astra VXR comes with less power - 240 bhp (179 kW; 243 PS) - but manages 0–100 kilometres per hour (0–62 mph) in 6.5 seconds, whilst the SEAT León Cupra (2.0 T-FSI with 177 kW (241 PS; 237 bhp)), Volvo C30 (225 bhp (168 kW; 228 PS) 2.5-litre inline-5 turbo), and Mazdaspeed3 (2.3-litre turbocharged engine with 263 bhp (196 kW; 267 PS)) also provide competition. Only the S3 and R32 are four-wheel drive, however, though the 130i M Sport is rear-wheel drive.
Audi has stated the S3 will not be sold in North/South America, although it is available in Mexico. Reasons range from pricing and competition with the Volkswagen Golf R32, and/or stealing sales from the new Audi TT and due to cost effectiveness in the North American market. Audi has announced a 2.0T quattro model for the North/South American market due out in 2009/2010 to coincide with the A3 body upgrade.
RS 3 Sportback (2011-)
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| Manufacturer | Audi AG |
|---|---|
| Production | 2011- |
| Assembly | Ingolstadt, Germany |
| Body style | 5-door hatchback |
| Layout | Transverse front Engine, Quattro On-Demand four-Wheel Drive |
| Platform | Volkswagen Group A5 (PQ35) platform |
| Engine | Petrol engine: 2.5L I5 FSI Turbo |
| Transmission | 7-speed S-Tronic |
In November 2010, Audi announced the Audi RS 3 Sportback. It is equipped with a 5 cylinder, 2.5 litre 340 PS (335 hp/250 kW) engine, paired with a 7-Speed S-Tronic transmission, and the Quattro on-demand four-Wheel drive system. The Audi RS 3 will only be available in a 5 door sportback version and no manual transmission option. The RS 3 Sportback has an acceleration of 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.6 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The RS 3 Sportback features a wider track, flared wheelarches, sill panels, and distinctive front and rear styling. The car is being assembled at the Audi Hungaria plant in Győr, Hungary. First deliveries are expected in early 2011.
Technical specifications
Source:
Audi A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro Concept
| Manufacturer | Audi AG |
|---|---|
| Production | Concept |
| Class | Concept car |
| Body style | 2-door compact hatchback |
| Layout | Front engine, quattro on-demand four-wheel drive |
| Length | 167.48 in (4,254 mm) |
| Width | 71.85 in (1,825 mm) |
| Height | 54.53 in (1,385 mm) |
The Audi A3 TDI Clubsport quattro is a concept car unveiled in 2008. Based on the Audi A3, it is an approach by Audi to address both performance and the environment.
Drivetrain and chassis
The engine in the concept car is a turbocharged 2.0 litre diesel producing 224 horsepower (167 kW) and 332 ft·lbf (450 N·m). of torque. It produces 113.8 horsepower (84.9 kW) per litre while meeting Euro 5 Diesel emission standards. It uses the quattro drive system with a six-speed manual transmission.
The chassis has Audi's Magnetic Ride Suspension system, lowering the vehicle 1.4 inches (36 mm) from the base model. It also has ceramic front brakes, a four-link rear suspension and electro-mechanical servo assist for the rack and pinion steering.
Exterior and interior
Exterior modifications include the widening of the grill, modifying the odd, and enlarging air intrakes. Bolt-on fender flares and a large rear spoiler have been added. The interior changes include sport seats and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
Performance
Audi claims performance of 0 to 62 miles per hour (100 km/h) in 6.6 seconds with a top speed of 149 miles per hour (240 km/h). It is expected to get approximately 40 miles per US gallon (5.9 L/100 km; 48 mpg-imp).
Marketing
In the Spring of 2005, Audi began a massive alternate reality game to advertise for the A3, known as The Art of the Heist.
In February 2010, the A3 TDI was featured in Audi's "Green Car" Super Bowl spot, which highlighted that model's "2010 Green Car of the Year" designation by Green Car Journal.
Gallery
Awards and accolades
See also
References
- "A7, A5, and A3 Joins Even Numbers", an article in the "News" section on page thirty-eight of the June, 2004 issue of Motor Trend
- Audi A3 Owner's Manual (English/UK edition) (2000 Audi AG)
External links
Retrieved from : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_A3#RS3_Sportback_.282011-.29
