Audi has extended the line-up of its A3 Sportback with the addition of the new 40 TFSI e plug-in hybrid version.
The new TFSI e version of the compact hatchback can travel under purely electric power for up to 41 miles, and then for hundreds more when its frugal TFSI engine kicks in. The newcomer will be available to order now in Sport or S line specifications, and will reach its first customers towards the end of the year.
TFSI engine plus electric motor
A 1.4 TFSI serves as the combustion engine for the latest A3 Sportback. Its four-cylinder petrol engine offers peak power of 150PS and 250Nm of torque. It works with a synchronous electric motor that produces 80kW of power and 330Nm of torque, and is integrated into the housing of the six-speed S tronic transmission.
Together, the powerplants deliver an output of 204PS and up to 350Nm of torque, enabling the car to sprint from 0 to 62mph in 7.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 141mph. In the WLTP test cycle, it proves capable of returning up to 282.5 mpg with CO2 output of no more than 31g/km.
Fully electric travel is possible at speeds of up to 87mph, while the statutory Acoustic Vehicle Alert System is emitted at low speeds to warn pedestrians and other road users that the vehicle is near.
Six per cent BIK banding
Sport and S line versions of the A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e are factory-fitted with 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels respectively, but because wheel size can bring minor variations in the compact hatchback’s electric-only driving range, customers can opt to go up or down in size depending on their preference. Thus the S line can be fitted with a 17-inch wheel as a no-cost option so business users can still qualify for the six per cent BIK banding.
The new A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e can be plugged into a domestic AC wall-box using the Type 2 cable supplied. A full recharge of a completely empty battery takes a little more than four hours. The my Audi app can be used to locate public charging points.
Athletic stance
With its concave flanks, heavily slanted C-pillars, pronounced shoulder line and accentuated quattro blisters the A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e has an athletic stance, particularly in S line form. Digital daytime running lights and a pixel array consisting of 15 LED segments generate an e-shaped light signature – the symbol of the plug-in hybrid drive.
Intelligent and versatile
As well as the sophisticated infotainment technology that features as standard, equipment highlights for the A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e Sport include dual-zone electronic climate control, twin leather upholstery and the assistance systems Audi pre sense front, lane departure warning, turn assist and swerve assist.