Audi NZ launches upgraded A3 range
Audi launches a "comprehensive facelift" A3 range in New Zealand showrooms from tomorrow.
The models involve new engines along with updated driver assistance and phone connectivity and info-tainment equipment.
There are also styling refinements which sharpen the appearance of the models.
Audi says the A3 is the top-selling premium compact hatchback in this country, with one in five of all Audis sold here being an A3.
The company is simplifying the model range, with the new base model being the 1.4 TFSI Design, an A3 2-litre TFSI Sport becoming the intermediate model, and the S3 2-litre TFSI, all available from tomorrow.
The base model will retail for $49,500, with the 1.4-litre engine putting out 110Kw.
The redesigned exterior for each new model includes new headlights with jagged bottom edges and updated design cues such as a new front fascia with a wider Singleframe® grille.
Audi says the changes make the A3 look more aggressive on the road.
All models now feature more advanced driver assistance systems including Audi pre sense city, which detects critical driving situations in the vehicle’s forward field of view, and Rear Cross Traffic Assist, supporting the driver when reversing out of a perpendicular parking space.
Inside each car, the MMI system includes navigation, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Audi virtual cockpit, now on the A4, becomes an optional extra on the new A3.
Each model now has more power than its predecessor. The A3 Design’s 1.4 TFSI features cylinder-on-demand efficiency technology, turning off two cylinders when the corresponding output is not required. It offers 110kW and 250 Nm of torque.
The A3 Sport’s newly developed 2.0 TFSI engine generates 140kW and 320 Nm of torque sprinting from 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds. The S3’s 2.0 TFSI engine generates 228kW and 400 Nm, applying its power to the road with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds.
The general manager of Audi New Zealand Dean Sheed said the new models would be in Audi showrooms from Friday.
“The new Audi A3 highlights Audi’s expertise in design, technology and driving dynamics. It brings technology that you would normally find in full size luxury vehicles to the premium small car segment."
The new high performance S3 was a serious driver's car that also offered a high degree of everyday practicality.
He said Audi would be broadening its range of vehicles available in New Zealand with further announcements before the end of the year.