Audi has unveiled the 2013 A3 hatchback at a special preview event ahead of the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, and even though it might not look too different from the previous generation, the car has been completely redesigned and it is the first that uses Volkswagen Group’s new MQB (Modular Transverse Matrix) platform.
The 2013 Audi A3 measures 4,237 mm in length, 1,777 mm in width, 1,421 mm in height and rolls on a 2,602 mm long wheelbase and besides having a 12 mm wider body and a 23 mm longer wheelbase, the new version is also 80 Kg (176 lbs) lighter than the outgoing model.
Its design is typical Audi, with clean yet expressive lines dominating the whole exterior, along with elements such as the single-frame radiator grille, quite large air intakes and LED headlights and taillights.
At launch the 2013 Audi A3 will come with three engine choices, out of which one is a diesel and the other two are TFSI petrol units.
The diesel is a 2.0-litre TDI generating 150 PS(110 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque while the petrol options are represented by a 1.4-litre TFSI rated at 122 PS (90 kW) and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque plus a 1.8-litre TFSI capable of generating 180 PS (132 kW) ann 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of peak torque.
A fourth engine option represented by a 1.6-litre TDI unit capable of returning 3.8-litres per 100 Km (61.90 mpg / US rating) and with CO2 emission levels of 99 grams per Km is also going to be offered later during the car’s life cycle.
Pricing for the new A3 will start at 21,600 Euros in Germany, and customers will be able to start purchasing it in Spring.
