Tuning Truck

Audi has unveiled the fuel efficient A3 1.6 TDI.

As the name implies, power comes from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 77 kW (105 hp) and 250 Nm of torque. There's no confusing it with the long-rumored RS3, as 0-100 km/h takes 11.4 seconds (11.7 seconds for the Sportback) and the top speed is limited to 190 km/h (118.06 mph).

Thanks to brake-energy regeneration and an engine start/stop system, the 1.6 TDI only consumes 3.8L/100 km (61.90 US mpg) while emitting 99 grams of CO2 per kilometer (159.33 g/mile). Other efficiency tweaks include a gear-change indicator, improved aerodynamics, and low rolling resistance tires.

While pricing information wasn't released, Audi said the new model will be launched in the first half of 2010.

Source: Audi

Only 99 grams CO2 per kilometer: Two new models in Audi’s A3 series

Audi A3 1.6 TDI with 99 grams CO2/km
Innovations from the Modular Efficiency Platform
77 kW (105 hp) and 250 Nm of torque for powerful propulsion

Audi has once again raised the efficiency bar: the new A3 1.6 TDI emits just 99 grams of CO2 per kilometer (159.33 g/mile) — thus undercutting the threshold of 100 g/km (160.93 g/mile). This corresponds to astounding fuel efficiency of 3.8 liters of diesel per 100 km (61.90 US mpg). At the same time, this TDI engine generates 77 kW (105 hp) of output and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque, for powerful propulsion.

The new models in the A3 series are powered by a four-cylinder TDI, which delivers 77 kW (105 hp) at 4,400 rpm from a displacement of 1,598 cc and — between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm — steadily transmits 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft. The TDI propels the three-door A3 from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62.14 mph) in 11.4 seconds and on up to a top speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph); the A3 Sportback reaches 100 km/h in 11.7 seconds.

The exemplary fuel efficiency of 3.8 liters of diesel per 100 km (61.90 mpg) is largely due to the synergetic impact of technologies from Audi’s modular efficiency platform. The start-stop system turns the engine off as soon as the vehicle comes to a stop, the shift lever is in neutral, and the driver has removed their foot from the clutch pedal. Start-stop then turns the engine back on as soon as the clutch pedal is depressed — all the while functioning quietly, conveniently, and quickly.

During braking and coasting phases, the energy-recovery system intelligently controls the alternator to recover energy, which is temporarily stored in the battery. This energy is then fed back into the electrical system during acceleration — thus reducing the load on the alternator. That saves fuel. The energy-recovery system and the start-stop system unleash their full potential under city-driving conditions — precisely where most customers drive every day.

Both new models in the A3 series roll off the assembly line with manual five-speed transmissions featuring a final drive ratio longer by some seven percent. A gear-change indicator in the instrument cluster helps the driver to select the ideal gear. This solution is key, as about 30 percent of fuel consumption depends on a given driver’s decisions and driving style.

The new Audi A3 1.6 TDI models with 99 g CO2/km boast even more innovations from Audi’s Modular Efficiency Platform. The vehicle’s body is slightly lower to the ground. This reduces the frontal area and — in conjunction with specially designed elements on the body and the underbody — aerodynamic drag, as well. The 195/65 R 15 tires excel via especially low rolling resistance.

Audi will begin selling the A3 1.6 TDI and the A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI in the first half of 2010. Prices will be similar to those models already on the market which offer the same performance.