2012 Audi A3 news, pictures, and information

Audi Model Range IAA Frankfurt 2011: The Audi A3 and Audi A3 Sportback

1.2 TFSI wîth 77 kW (105 hp)
1.4 TFSI wîth 92 kW (125 hp)
1.8 TFSI and 1.8 TFSI quattro wîth 118 kW (160 hp)
2.0 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI quattro wîth 147 kW (200 hp)
1.6 TDI wîth 66 kW (90 hp)
1.6 TDI wîth 77 kW (105 hp)
2.0 TDI and 2.0 TDI quattro wîth 103 kW (140 hp)
2.0 TDI and 2.0 TDI quattro wîth 125 kW (170 hp)

The range of transmission technologies is also extremely diverse. Most engine versions in the A3 model series are paired wîth a six-speed manual transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) Audi offers many of the engines wîth the extremely fast and comfortably shifting S tronic. Shift paddles on the §teering wheel are standard in the Ambition line. Depending on engine version, the dual-clutch transmission has six or seven speeds. The seven-speed version uses dry clutches; the elimination of the oil supply further improves the transmission's already high efficiency.

The transmission of power to all four wheels likewise underscores the exceptional position that the Audi A3 enjoys in the premium compact category. Audi supplies quattro permanent all-wheel drive for four engine versions. Its electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, mounted on the rear axle in the interest of weight distribution, sends most of the engine's power to the front wheels under normal driving conditions. If need be, it diverts torque extremely quickly and flexibly to the rear wheels.

Chassis

The chassis of the A3 model series combines a sporty character wîth supreme safety and a high level of comfort. Its precision and poise stem from elaborate solutions such as a four-link rear suspension, which handles longitudinal and transverse forces independently, and the electromechanical power §teering, which is as intelligent as it is efficient.

On all versions wîth front-wheel drive, the ESP electronic stabilization program incorporates an electronic limited slip differential. This intelligent software solution uses small, barely detectable brake applications to manage how torque is distributed among the wheels when at the cornering limit. These suppress any understeer, improve traction and further enhance driving safety.

For engines developing 103 kW (140 hp) and upwards, Audi supplies the adaptive damper control system Audi magnetic ride, which exploits the properties of an electromagnetic fluid.

The dampers can be set for a comfortable or sporty characteristic. Within these parameters, the system adjusts the damping forces in milliseconds depending on road conditions and the driver's style. The body is lowered by 15 millimeters (0.59 in).

A conventional sport suspension lowered 25 mm (0.98 in) and the decidedly taut S line sport suspension from quattro GmbH are also available. Wheels are available in sizes up to 18 inches – another offer from quattro GmbH.

Equipment

	Vital Stats
Engine : 2.0 L., 4-cylinder Power: 200 hp Torque: 207 ft-lbs
6-speed Manual, 6-speed Automatic, 6-speed Automatic

The extensive range of high-end options demonstrates the high technological standard of the A3 model series. These include the adaptive light dynamic cornering light system for the xenon plus headlights, the high-beam assistant and the navigation system plus wîth MMI operating logic.

The parking assistant is another very attractive feature. When driving by at speeds up to 30 km/h (18.64 mph), its ultrasound sensors scan the parking spaces parallel wîth the road; when it detects one that is large enough to reverse into, it then indicates this in the instrument cluster. All the driver needs to do is engage reverse and operate the accelerator, clutch and brakes – the car maneuvers independently and precisely into the space.