Audi a3 2012

Audi a3 2012

Audi a3 2012

Audi has pushed back the arrival of its next-generation A3 by one year as it tackles the development of several other all-new models such as the A1 hatch and Q3 soft-roader. Originally slated to arrive at the end of the year, the new 2012 Audi A3 will now hit the market early next year in basic three and five-door hatchback models. Further down the track Audi will add a new Cabrio model and Sportback wagon, and according to previous reports there could even be a four-door coupe as well as an Allroad soft-roader.

The move is designed to help the next A3 compete with BMW�s 1-series range as well as a family of sporty models based on the next-generation Mercedes A- and B-Class. The new A3�s underpinnings will once again be shared with Volkswagen�s Golf, which means Audi�s latest modular platform design has been ruled out. Compared with the current model, however, the new A3�s footprint will grow in size and its profile is expected to be sleeker.

Previous spy shots of an A3 test mule hidden under the sheet metal of a Volkswagen Golf revealed that the next A3 will have a slightly wider track than the current MkVI Golf, confirming that the new model will be growing in size.

Likely engine options for the A3 range of cars include a series of four-cylinder powerplants ranging from 1.2 to 2.0-liters in displacement. The base engine will be a 1.2-liter TFSI with 105 horsepower and 130 pound-feet of torque, and this will be followed by a 1.4-liter TFSI with 125 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque as well as a 1.8-liter TFSI with 160 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Rounding out the four-cylinder family will be a 2.0-liter TFSI with 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. For the performance S3 model, expect to see a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Audi a3 2012

Audi a3 2012

Audi a3 2012

Audi a3 2012

Audi a3 2012

Audi a3 2012