Starting from this November, Audi will begin fitting certain European-spec A3 models equipped with the firm's S tronic dual-clutch transmission with a start and stop system. Available on the A3 three-door and five-door SportBack models with the 105HP 1.6-liter TDI diesel and the 125HP 1.4-liter TFSI petrol engine, the start and stop system improves fuel economy by turning the engine off as soon as the vehicle comes to a halt and automatically starts the engine as soon as the driver removes his or her foot from the brake pedal.Both A3 models also feature an on-board energy-recovery system that converts mechanical braking energy into electrical power that is temporarily stored in the battery and is then fed back into the electrical system during acceleration, thus reducing the load on the alternator and saving fuel.
The German maker claims that the A3 1.6 TDI S-Tronic consumes on average 4.2 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (56 US mpg) and emits 109g/km of CO2 while the 1.4 TFSI S-Tronic, 5.3 liters of premium unleaded for every 100 kilometers (44.4 US mpg) with 124 g/km of CO2.
Performance-wise, the 1.6 TDI propels the three-door A3 from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 11.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 194 km/h (121 mph) while the A3 1.4 TFSI goes from standstill to 100km/h in 9.3 seconds and tops out at 203 km/h (126 mph).
Prices for the A3 1.4 TFSI with the S-Tronic and start-stop system in Germany will remain unchanged at €23,700 for3-door and €24,600 for the Sportback. The new 1.6 TDI with S-Tronic and Start-Stop will sell at a base price of €25,500 for the 3-door and €26,400 for the Sportback.
