Cars - Audi A3

	Cars - Audi A3

The Audi A3 is a compact luxury automobile built by Audi since 1996. It uses the Volkswagen A platform shared with the VW Golf, Škoda Octavia and SEAT León.

First generation (1996-2003)

The original A3 was introduced in the European market in 1996, marking Audi's return to the lower market segments since the demise of the Audi 50. Using the VW Golf's platform, it bears a natural close resemblance to its contemporary, the Golf Mk. IV. The car was initially available only with a three-door hatchback body, in order to present a more sporty image than the Golf, in both front- and four-wheel drive. All engines had a four-cylinder configuration and were transversally mounted. The Audi A3 was the first model in the Audi lineup to use five valves per cylinder.

In 1999, Audi expanded the range with the introduction of an entry level model (1.6 L), a sporty version (1.8 Turbo with 180 PS (132 kW)) and a more powerful Diesel (1.9 TDI with pumpe-düse technology and variable geometry turbocharger). The four-wheel-drive A3 1.8T Quattro used either the 150 hp (110 kW) and 180 PS (132 kW) and the same Haldex-based quattro drivetrain as the Audi S3 and the original Audi TT. 1999 was also the year Audi was forced to bow to market demands and introduced a hastily conceived five-door body, that the company had never intended to produce.

In late 2001, the A3 range was revised with new light clusters, an improved interior, and the introduction of a six-speed manual gearbox, on the 180 PS 1.8 Turbo and the brand new 130 PS (96 kW) 1.9 TDI. Audi's ESP (Electronic Stability Program) traction-control and brakeforce distribution computer became standard equipment.

Although the Audi A3 was replaced in Europe during 2003, the first generation model continues to be sold in developing countries, most notably Brazil.

Engines

1.6 L (1595 cc/97 in³), 75 kW (102 PS)
1.8 L (1781 cc/108 in³), 92 kW (125 PS)
1.8 L (1781 cc/108 in³) light-pressure turbo, 110 kW (150 PS)
1.8 L (1781 cc/108 in³) turbo, 132 kW (180 PS)
1.9 L (1896 cc/115 in³) turbo Diesel, 66 kW (90 PS)
1.9 L (1896 cc/115 in³) turbo Diesel, 81 kW (110 PS)
1.9 L (1896 cc/115 in³) turbo Diesel, 96 kW (130 PS)

Second generation (2003-)

In the 2003 Frankfurt Motorshow, Audi launched the second-generation of the A3. The premium version of the A3 is the 3.2 Quattro with a 24-valve 250 hp (186 kW) VR6 engine. It delivers a peak-torque range with a maximum value of 320 N·m (236 ft·lbf) from 2500–3000 rpm. The new Audi A3 (three doors and SportBack) has been drawn by Italian Walter Da Silva.

US Market

A five-door version was launched in the United States market in May 2005 priced at US$25,450. It uses the 200 hp (149 kW) turbocharged 2.0 L FSI I4 engine with a standard six-speed manual transmission. A DSG clutchless manual transmission is optional and priced at $1,400. The American A3 was initially offered with front wheel drive only. Audi added a Quattro (all wheel drive) version with a 3.2 L VR6 engine in late 2005.

The American A3 comes with a great deal of standard equipment, including 17-inch wheels, a 140-watt sound system with 10 speakers and CD player, automatic climate control, and an Electronic Stabilization Program. The $1,800 Sport Package includes colored wheels, a sport suspension, and an upgraded interior with leather sport seats. For $2,025, the Premium Package adds a trip computer, leather seats, and other convenience features. A panoramic sunroof, called "Open Sky System" that comprises a sun-roof and a glass panel over the backseat passengers is optional, as are a navigation system and upgraded Bose audio system.

In the Spring of 2005, Audi began a massive alternate reality game to advertise for the A3. This Alternate Reality Game was known as The Art of the Heist.

[ Visit the complete Wikipedia entry for Audi A3 ]

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Cars - Audi A3

First generation (1996-2003)

Engines

Second generation (2003-)

US Market

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