Electricity gains a little more velocity in the Audi A3 range as a new, more powerful 45 TFSI e version of the Sportback lines up alongside the recently launched 40 TFSI e model.
With peak system power of 245PS and 400Nm of system torque, the newcomer has an even greater propensity for performance that will be reflected in its positioning as a top-tier S line Competition model when it becomes available in the UK early in 2021.
Like its sister model, the new A3 Sportback 45 TFSI e has a 1.4-litre combustion engine with 150PS and 250Nm of torque complemented by an electric motor contributing 80kW and 330Nm of torque. Control software gives this new version its 41PS and 50Nm power and torque advantage over the A3 40 TFSI e. The electric motor is integrated into the housing of the six-speed S tronic transmission and is fed by a lithium-ion battery. An empty battery can be recharged in around five hours using a domestic AC wallbox charger.
Powerful performance and long range
The compact PHEV model can accelerate from rest to 62mph in 6.8 seconds, and continue to a top speed of 144mph. When efficiency is the focus it can travel at up to 87mph without intervention by the petrol engine, and can do so for up to 37 emission-free miles. WLTP tests also showed that the hybrid drivetrain can deliver up to 235.4mpg with CO2 output of as little as 29g/km
Four driving modes for high efficiency
In ‘Auto Hybrid’ mode, the main operating mode, the combustion engine and electric motor divide the work intelligently. Depending on the situation and the driver’s preference, the car can coast, recuperate energy or boost by fully engaging the electric motor and TFSI.
Sports equipment
As well as the touch screen MMI Touch infotainment system and the Audi Virtual Cockpit, standard features of the A3 Sportback 45 TFSI e S line Competition include navigation and web-based Audi connect services, dual-zone electronic climate control, and the assistance systems Audi pre sense front, lane departure warning, turn assist and swerve assist.
Externally, exclusive S line styling details are complemented by privacy glass, a black styling package that darkens elements such as the grille surround, window cappings and door mirror housings, and 18-inch 5-Y-spoke design alloy wheels in graphite grey. Red calipers draw attention to the brake discs sitting behind these, which are larger than those of the 40 TFSI e, measuring 340 millimetres in diameter at the front and 310mm at the rear.
Illumination with depth and precision
The headlamps and tail lights with their dynamic rear indicators use LED technology as standard, and can be optionally upgraded to include Matrix LED headlamp units that illuminate with even more depth and precision and feature dynamic cornering lights. The digital daytime running lights incorporated in these upgraded units comprise 15 LED segments which generate an E-shaped light signature – the symbol of the plug-in hybrid drive
