Audi A3 2008 - The Engines
Published: 29th April 2008
Audi A3 Rear Side 2008
Audi A3 - The Engines
For the UK market, the new generation A3 and A3 Sportback engine range comprises seven different engines – four petrol and three diesel versions. Five of them are pioneering four-cylinder direct injection units with turbocharging. Their abbreviations TFSI and TDI encapsulate the strengths of Audi's engine technology – performance, high torque, dynamism, refinement and efficiency.
The 1.6 unit develops 75 kW (102 hp), the 1.4 TFSI 92 kW (125 hp), the 1.8 TFSI 118 kW (160 hp) and the 2.0 TFSI 147 kW (200 hp) The 1.9 TDI delivers 77 kW (105 hp) and the 2.0 TDI 103 kW (140 hp). The 2.0 TDI 125 kW (170 hp) version is available later. Both two-litre diesel engines have been extensively re-engineered – a new common rail injection system now assures ultra-refined running, efficiency and excellent acoustics.
The diesel with an output of 77 kW (105 hp) is the power unit of the extremely efficient 1.9 TDI e version which, thanks to special fine-tuning measures, clocks up 100 kilometers on a mere 4.5 liters of diesel (52.27 mpg). Thanks to the efficiency measures, the other engines likewise offer reduced fuel consumption by as much as 15 percent. The 1.8 TFSI and the technically closely related 2.0 TFSI have been frictionally optimised and have new cylinder bores, pistons and oil pumps to increase efficiency.
Audi A3 - the new transmissions
The range of transmissions has been extended and become even more appealing. Almost all engine versions are supplied as standard with six-speed manual transmission. The 1.6 and 1.9 TDI are fitted with the five-speed manual transmission.. The high-tech dual-clutch S tronic transmission, now available on most engines, changes gears with exceptional speed and smoothness. The driver can set it to operate in a fully automatic mode or change gear manually – either at the selector lever or with the standard shift paddles on the leather sport steering wheel.
The S tronic on the 2.0 TFSI and both 2.0 TDI diesel versions has six speeds, whereas the 1.6, the 1.4 TFSI and the 1.8 TFSI petrol engines feature a newly developed seven-speed S tronic. Both its clutches are dry-running – an innovative approach. This means that they do not need a separate oil supply, further adding to their already impressive efficiency. The seven gears are closely spaced for a rapid response, though the top ratio is sufficiently high-geared to reduce the engine speed, cutting fuel consumption as a result.
The quattro versions, which put the A3 in a different league to the other players in the premium compact class, likewise have even more to offer. The all-wheel-drive system is available for two engine versions – for the 2.0 TFSI and the 2.0 TDI (170PS). In its latest technical form the central hydraulic multi-plate clutch responds even faster when the engine's power needs to be redistributed between the front and rear wheels. This increases stability, traction and driving pleasure for the driver.
The standard-fit dynamic suspension, too, provides safety, precise handling and comfort all rolled into one. The well-balanced chassis characteristics of the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback are attributable to the elaborate engineering elements such as the four-link rear suspension and the efficient electromechanical power steering. The Sport models are fitted as standard with sport suspension that supports the body 15 millimeters (0.59 in) lower; in conjunction with 17-inch alloy wheels.
Audi A3 - Magnetic Ride
There is another new feature that puts the A3 and A3 Sportback ranges streets ahead of their rivals. The adaptive-action shock absorber control system by the name of Audi magnetic ride. This system overcomes the age-old conflict between sound handling behavior and ride comfort. The driver can choose between "Normal" and "Sport" programs by flipping a switch. A magneto-rheological fluid circulating in the shock absorbers changes its flow properties within milliseconds when a voltage is applied; this affects the damping characteristic, which can be varied from comfortably supple to crisply firm. Magnetic ride is available as an option on the 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI petrol engines as well as both versions of the 2.0 TDI diesel models.
Audi A3
Our Audi A3 Guide lists the full specification of the current UK A3 range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £15,540 - £27,320
Body Style:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 62
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 25th Jun 2008
