In order to convince import buyers that a neo-luxury station wagon can let them lead an ''active lifestyle'' while delivering ''sporty driving dynamics similar to the TT Coupe,'' Audi America will launch the compact A3 model with two hot engines in Canada this May.Specifically, that would be the 2.0T FSI inline-four and the 3.2-litre V-6.The smaller engine is making its ''world debut'' here, and it uses a turbocharger to put out 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque, the latter of which is available from 1,800 to 5,000 rpm. The larger engine is a 3.2-liter V-6 good for 250 hp and 237 lb-ft of torque available from 2,500 to 3,000 rpm. More torque but in a narrower range, which is fine if you drive the car with an eye on the tach.Audi spokesperson Jennifer Cortez notes that the smaller engine is the first production unit worldwide to combine FSI petrol direct injection with a turbocharger, but if it makes the entry level A3 hustle many of its buyers won't care if it uses strontium 90. Anyway, Audi notes that this technology ''enables a unique synthesis of high performance, free-revving response and pulling power in all speed ranges, yet with excellent fuel economy.''The 2.0T can only be had in the front-wheel-drive package, Cortez points out, but it will come with a six-speed manual gearbox or the optional Direct Shift Gearbox automatic transmission.The 3.2 V-6 comes in only one package, which includes Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system and the DSG transmission.Audi thinks a lot of the DSG, Cortez makes clear. They call it a ''pioneering form of power transmission inspired by auto racing technology that permits lightning-fast gear changes with uninterrupted traction thanks to its electro-hydraulically controlled twin clutch, and thus sheer driving pleasure in true sports car style.''The DSG in the A3 is said to combine the advantages of a conventional six-speed manual gearbox with the qualities of a modern automatic transmission, ''thus providing a drive concept superior in every respect.''The driver benefits from supreme agility and driving pleasure, Cortez says, and that's combined with dynamic acceleration without interrupting the flow of power from the engine. If that weren't enough, the DSG is also designed to deliver low fuel consumption and ''convenient operation.''In North America's legal reality, going fast means getting from 0 to 100 or maybe 120 kmh in a straight line in less time than the next guy, but there are those people who like to know the car would also handle well if they opportunity existed. So the suspension on the A3 is ''designed for sporty and agile handling offering a high standard of stability, and producing an excellent cornering performance and a high level of comfort in conjunction with both front-wheel drive and quattro.''That A3's suspension employs McPherson struts at the front, and the ''innovative'' four-link independent suspension at the back. In case the driver is overcome with the ''red mist'' associated with speed and imagines he's on the autobahn for a few moments, the ''power of the engines is reflected by the equally powerful brake system with a large brake disc diameter.''Either set of wheels -- the 17-inch or the optional 18-inch -- will improve performance on the road, says Cortez, while adding a sporty visual touch.Like other Audis, the A3 is also fitted with electromechanical steering with speed-dependent power assistance, which Cortez says has been extensively praised by auto writers around the world.
Audi goes downmarket with A3 station wagon