Further Efficient Engines Added to the Audi A3 Range
INGOLSTADT, GERMANY . June 2, 2009: With its new 1.6 TDI engines, Audi
demonstrates once again that driving pleasure and efficiency are not
mutually exclusive. With consumption of just 4.1 liters of diesel per 100
kilometers (57.37 US mpg), the A3 1.6 TDI with an output of 77 kW (105 hp)
emits a mere 109 grams of CO2 per kilometer (175 g/mile). These excellent
figures are made possible by efficient technologies such as the start/stop
system and energy recovery. Performance is also impressive. The version
with an output of 77 kW (105 hp) allows the Audi A3 to reach 100 km/h (62
mph) in 11.4 seconds and powers it quickly up to a top speed of 194 km/h
(121 mph). The smaller 1.6 TDI delivers 66 kW (90 hp) and transmits 230 Nm
(170 lb-ft) of torque. The A3 1.6 TDI can be ordered at once; the basic
price is 22,550 euros for the engine with 66 kW (90 hp) and 23,550 euros
for 77 kW (105 hp).
The new 1.6 TDI engine, delivering 77 kW (105 hp) in the Audi A3,
reinforces the enhanced efficiency and customer benefits of downsizing:
vastly superior fuel efficiency and performance comparable to engines with
higher displacement.
For Audi, downsizing means offering customers vehicles with a
turbocharged engine and smaller capacity as well as excellent efficiency
and handling. Audi achieves this by blending several components of the
modular efficiency platform. The standard start/stop system is especially
effective during city driving. As soon as the vehicle comes to a stop, the
shift lever is in neutral, and the driver removes their foot from the
clutch pedal, the system turns the engine off. The engine then turns back
on as soon as the clutch pedal is depressed.
Yet fuel savings begin before the A3 even halts at traffic lights. Aided
by the energy-recovery system, the alternator works hard to convert kinetic
energy to usable energy during a vehicle’s coasting and braking
phases before temporarily storing it in the battery. Upon driving off or
accelerating the vehicle, the battery supplies this stored energy to
electrical components – thus reducing the load on the alternator.
This saves as much as three percent fuel.
In conjunction with the TDI’s common-rail high-pressure injection
technology, these systems work together to facilitate fuel consumption of
just 4.1 liters per 100 kilometers (57.37 US mpg). This equates to just 109
grams of CO2 emissions per kilometer (175 g/mile).
The 1.6 TDI with an output of 66 kW (90 hp) also offers good performance
and fuel efficiency. With its high torque of 230 Nm (170 lb-ft), this
engine version propels the Audi A3 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 12.9 seconds and
a top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). Even without a start/stop system or
energy recovery, it sips a mere 4.5 l/100 km of diesel (52.27 US mpg)
– thereby emitting just 118 grams of CO2 per kilometer (190
g/mile).
Both versions of this new four-cylinder turbocharged diesel with
common-rail technology further cement Audi’s reputation as a pioneer.
Despite lower displacement, fuel consumption is lower while handling
remains as outstanding as ever.
The Audi A3 1.6 TDI is also available as the A3 Sportback. The extra
charge for the Sportback versions is 900 euros. The basic price is 22,550
euros for the version with 66 kW (90 hp); the model with an output of 77 kW
(105 hp) starts at 23,550 euros.
