The Europeans will be seeing the A3 Sportback well before we do in North America. Audi dealerships across Europe will be taking orders as of July, with deliveries
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| The Sportback will begin showing up in European dealerships in late September, but don't expect them here in North America until sometime in 2005. (Photo: Audi Canada) |
As fuel prices climb, and consumer's penchant for large vehicles ebbs, personal luxury vehicles such as the A3 Sportback will grow in popularity. It offers all the sophistication, class and engineering of larger Audis without the ownership expenses involved - a good idea that is bound to grow in popularity.
Specifications:
- Price Range (estimated MSRP): $30,000 - $45,000
- Body Type: 5-door hatchback
- Layout: front engine, FWD (optional AWD)
- Engine: 150 hp, 148 lb-ft of torque, 2.0-L, 16-valve, DOHC Direct-Injection I-4
- Optional Engine: 200 hp, 207 lb-ft of torque, 2.0 L, 16-valve, DOHC Direct-Injection turbocharged I-4
- Optional Engine: 250 hp, 236 lb-ft of torque, 3.2 L, 24-valve, DOHC V6
- Transmission: 6-spd man (opt 6-spd auto, opt 6-speed DSG sequential manual)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS and EDS
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Volume (rear seat up / down): 370 L / 1120 L (13.1 cu ft / 39.6 cu ft)
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
- Direct Competitors: Acura RSX Type-S / TSX, BMW 1-Series, Lexus IS 300 SportCross, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Saab 9-2X, Subaru Impreza WRX, Volvo V50, Volkswagen Golf / Jetta Wagon
- Web Site: www.audicanada.ca
Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.
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