Audi unveiled the all-new 2015 Audi A3 sedan to journalists last week before the 2013 New York International Auto Show opened. The new A3 promises to deliver the same technology and quality Audi models are known for, but in a in a smaller package. It is designed to compete directly with the new Mercedes-Benz CLA, Cadillac ATS and Acura ILX.
The redesigned 2015 A3 sedan is 6.5 inches longer and the wheelbase increased by two inches when compared to the existing Sportback. The longer wheelbase results in a more spacious interior which will appeal to American buyers. Its proportions closely resemble those of the original Audi A4 introduced in 1994.
Audi took its styling to a higher level in designing the interior of the Audi A3 2015. Although the round vents, 3 small climate-control knobs, a new MMI controller on the console and the LCD display that rises from the dash differentiate it from VW, it is obvious through the horizontal dash that Audi A3 borrowed some styling details from its VW roots.
Premium contents are spread all through the trim levels. All models will come with standard power features; cruise control; leather upholstery; Bluetooth; and a panoramic sunroof. The standard Audi’s MMI system comes with a 7-inch-diagonal, 0.5-inch-thick retractable screen.
Audi Connect will be available for the connected class. The system enables service to about 8 devices, and can stream music from them via wireless networks it creates and render them through a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system with 705 watts of output.
2015 Audi A3 Powertrain
A 1.8-liter 170-horsepower TFSI gasoline engine and a 2.0-liter 150-horsepower TDI diesel engine will be offered to buyers in the U.S. There will also be two versions of the 2.0-liter TFSI in the A3 Quattro and S3 Quattro. Although the official horsepower ratings for the Quattro are available, the S3 will be the most sought after edition with about 296 horsepower, and a 0-60 mph time of about 4.8 seconds
Regardless of the engine unit or wheels, a six-speed dual-clutch automatic is the only transmission available on the 2015 A3. A six-speed stick offered on the base trim of the outgoing model has been dropped.
Safety of Audi A3 2015
According to Audi, the interior space was increased and crash performance was boosted by shifting the front wheels forward by about 1.5 inches. Some standard safety features in the 2015 Audi A3 include a pre-collision restraint prep and simulated torque vectoring on the front wheels via its anti-lock brakes, and its optional safety technology, include the blind spot monitors and adaptive cruise control.
Likes:
- Impressive design
- Diesels and plug-in hybrids options
- Good connectivity with the Audi Connect
Dislikes:
- Plug-in hybrid will be available as hatchback-only
Audi A3 2015 will arrive at dealerships in spring of 2014. Pricing info has not been released, though a base price of $30,000 is being speculated, this would put it in direct competition with the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA. Audi A3 Sportback e-tron and S3 quattro are expected to be released later in the summer of 2014, with a price suggested at just below $40,000.
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