2021 Audi A3 Sportback Gets Plug-in Hybrid Power With 42-Mile Full Electric Range

Audi continues its electrified offensive with the introduction of the new A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e.

Following in the footsteps of the old e-tron model, this plug-in hybrid hatchback is powered by a 1.4-liter TFSI gasoline engine, rated at 148 HP (150 PS / 110 kW) and 185 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque, plus a 107 HP (109 PS / 80 kW) and 243 lb-ft (330 Nm) electric motor.

The combined system output of 201 HP (204 PS / 150 kW) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm), directed to the front wheels via a six-speed S tronic transmission, enables a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration of 7.6 seconds and a 141 mph (227 km/h) top speed. The average fuel consumption in the old NEDC cycle is 156.8-168.0 mpg US (1.5-1.4 l/100 km), corresponding to 34-30 g/km of CO2. In its zero-emission mode, the A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e can hit a maximum speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).

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Enabling a range of up to 49 miles (78 km) in the NEDC standard, or 42 miles (67 km) per WLTP (almost 13 miles (20 km) more than its predecessor), is a 13 kWh battery, positioned beneath the rear seats. It can be charged with a maximum power of 2.9 kW, meaning that it will have to be plugged in for over 4 hours.

The electrified A3 Sportback has a boot volume of 9.9-38.8 cu-ft (280 to 1,100 liters), depending on the position of the rear seatbacks, and features hybrid-specific functions, including two drive modes that can be selected via the MMI operating system, named ‘Battery Hold’ and ‘Battery Charge’.

Standard gear includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, infotainment system with 10.1-inch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, myAudi app that connects the car to the user’s smartphone, two-zone climate control and a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel. Features such as the panoramic glass sunroof, sports seats, head-up display, Audi Virtual Cockpit and others are available as options.

The A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e will launch in Europe this fall, with prices starting at €37,470.92 ($43,655) in Germany, excluding the €6,750 ($7,864) incentives.

Audi will also launch a more powerful version of this car that “emphasizes the sporty accents”.