We have had the opportunity to learn more about one of the most popular premium compact vehicles throughout Mallorca. We talk about Audi A3 in its third generation. The first generation dates from 1996, the second from 2003 and the new one has been presented this year at the Geneva Motor Show. Since then they have sold more than 2,8 million units, which makes us see that it is one of the pillars of the brand with the four rings, and that is probably why they have made an effort, as we will see later, to make the 16 years of model life seem more if we compare the technology of the first model with that of the last.
In Germany, the marketing of this new A3 will begin tomorrow and the first units will be delivered in August. For the launch in Spanish lands we will have to wait a little longer, although we do know the starting price: $22.500. It will be marketed in three staggered trim levels in the same way as the outgoing model (Attraction, Ambition and Ambiente).
Regarding engines, initially there are the 1.4 and 1,8 TFSI gasoline of 140 and 180 CV respectively, accompanied by the block diesel of 2.0 liters and 150 CV and the 1.6 of 105 which will come later. If we review this range carefully we will see that interesting alternatives are not lacking, especially if we take into account the possibility of mounting both six-speed manual gearbox as S-Tronic (double clutch). Later, a hybrid variant and one capable of running on CNG will arrive, in addition to the saloon and Sportback bodies.
The 1.4 delivers 200Nm of maximum torque and the most interesting thing is that it has "Cylinder on demand" technology, or what is the same, the cylinder disconnection. This is nothing new, it has been applied to zillion-cylinder engines for a long time, but it is unusual in a relatively small-displacement four-cylinder. Tomorrow we will tell you how this system works that we have had the option to test.
The 1.8CV 180 TFSI is the most radical of all at the moment. Make the 0-100 in 7,2 seconds and its 250Nm of torque are noticeable. We have tested it with the six-speed S-Tronic automatic transmission.
The 1.6 TDI is seen as the access diesel engine to the range. It is not a killing machine in performance, but in consumption, with a approved average of 3.8 liters per 100. We have not had the opportunity to taste it, which would have been interesting to know how this model develops, intended for those who do not seek out-of-the-box features and rather an economical vehicle to ride.
Lastly, there is the 2.0 TDI of 150CV that with 320Nm is the most powerful diesel option, At least for the moment. We will talk about it tomorrow, both the manual version and the automatic one.
Turning to other aspects, the technological load that this new model can have is simply beastly. It is such that throughout the different contacts that we have had with the different versions it has been impossible for us to use and understand all the devices of the vehicle. For that, we would have to do the same thing as when we buy a car, user manual in hand, dedicate a Sunday afternoon to study, and surely after understanding everything that this model brings, our neurons will not be stunned.
Among other things, the new A3 can be equipped (as an option) with the MMI navigation system, the Audi phone box or a sound system signed by the prestigious firm Bang & Olufsen. The Audi pre sense system is also offered in terms of safety equipment, in addition to side assist, active lane assist, adaptive cruise control and a long list of interesting options that we will review in a separate section so as not to leave us any details.
If we focus on what everyone is going to see, that is, the aesthetic part, we see that pretty much follows the patterns of its predecessor, especially on the outside that is very similar or even with other models of the brand such as the A1. It is not an ugly car at all, quite the opposite, but the jump is not very noticeable. This is something that, for example, Porsche has been doing for decades with its 911, but there is a small difference and that is that the A3 is not yet a car legend, which the 911 is. I know, comparisons are hateful.
If you can see more fluid and clean lines and above all many more right angles in the bodywork. Seeing him there is no doubt that he is German. Inside there has also been a change in design, which despite retaining a similarity, is much more minimalist and attractive, as well as providing a perception of superior quality to the outgoing model.
This is just to whet your appetite tomorrow comes the really interestingthe dynamic part. Meanwhile I leave you with the gallery of press photos accompanied by those of a server.
Continues in Part II y Part III
