Following the launch of the A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e earlier this year, Audi has now introduced another electrified version of its compact model, dubbed the 45 TFSI e. Power is supplied by the same 1.4-liter turbocharged engine as its lesser sibling, which pumps out an identical 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque.
The extra oomph, however, is supplied by
the electric motor which is integrated into the six-speed S tronic transmission
that drives the front wheels and generates 109 PS and 330 Nm.
With a total system output of 245 PS and 400 Nm, the new A3 Sportback 45 TFSI e is 41 PS and 50 Nm more powerful than the 40 TFSI e. The 0 to
100 km/h sprint is dealt with in 6.8 seconds, a 0.8-second
improvement, and flat-out, it will do 232 km/h.
Plugging the 13 kWh lithium-ion battery
into a conventional socket will recharge it completely in around 5 hours. Once
juiced up, it allows the car to drive for 63 km on zero emissions on
the WLTP cycle at a maximum speed of 140 km/h.
The new A3 Sportback 45 TFSI e features
the black styling package, high-gloss black inlays for the singleframe grille,
17-inch alloy wheels, bigger brakes than in the 40 TFSI e with red calipers,
Audi drive select, tinted rear windows, two-zone climate control and
convenience key. The Matrix LED headlights are optional. Pricing in Germany for
the latest electrified A3 starts at € 41,440 (US$ 50,225) including tax, and
customers are entitled to a € 6,750 (US$ 8,180) subsidy.
