Audi, as a member of the vast and powerful Volkswagen Auto Group, has access to huge resources and therefore is called upon to innovate and pave the way for new and exciting ways to make technology work.
Pros
The 2014 Audi A3 e-tron is the latest car that combines an ultra-efficient powertrain and a lightweight body in order to maximize both economy and performance. Enhanced driving dynamics are also part of the mix.
The ability to circulate in the city under electric power only, all the while looking like a million bucks, makes the A3 e-tron an especially appealing product.
Cons
The 2014 Audi A3 e-tron will only be offered in European markets upon market launch next year, however, should eventually make its way to North America.
As is, the hybrid powertrain setup does not allow for Audi’s excellent Quattro AWD system to be used. For some areas in North America, this fact could limit its allure.
Price No pricing information is yet available.
Fuel Economy
The 2014 Audi A3 e-tron is expected to be a leader in its performance-hybrid segment. Its average CO2 emissions will be as little as 35 grams per km (56.33 g/mile). In North America, this translates into an impressive 1.5L of fuel per 100 km or 156.81 mpg.
Exterior styling
Few will ever be able to say that Audi’s latest creations lack eye-catching design. The 2014 Audi A3 e-tron follows suit with an exquisite body that looks fast, sleek and oh-so sexy. The proportions are perfect -- and it’s a hatchback.
From the headlights to the massive front grille to the complete aerodynamics package, the A3 e-tron is gorgeous. The unique wheels add to the elegant tuner style of this compact car.
The plug location is brilliantly positioned behind the four-rings logo in the front grille.
Inside
The A3 e-tron’s cabin mimics that of the latest A3 and other Audi products. Fit and finish are exemplary as are the seats and the slew of amenities.
The car also features numerous displays, such as the powermeter in the instrument cluster, that monitor the flow of energy, operating range, fuel consumption, and state of battery charge.
Powertrain
The 2014 Audi A3 e-tron sports a 1.4L TFSI internal combustion engine. It features, among many hi-tech characteristics, low frictional losses, a small efficient turbocharger, an intercooler and seriously sophisticated thermal management.
The 1.4L puts out 150 hp and 184.39 lb-ft. The combined system output is of 204 hp and 258.15 lb-ft of torque.
Audi’s dual-clutch 6-speed e-S tronic transmission sends the power to the front wheels. It contains the synchronous electric motor and functions as follows, according to Audi:
“The electric motor is located between the engine’s dual-mass flywheel and the newly developed separating clutch, the K0 clutch. When the TFSI starts, it is tow-started by the electric motor via the clutch. As soon as the former has achieved the same speed as the electric motor, the clutch is opened. This smooth, highly precise process takes place within half a second.”
The batteries consists of eight modules each holding 12 cells. The A3 e-tron’s electric range is 50 km, and the total range is an astounding 940 km. The 0-100 km sprint goes by in 7.6 seconds on the way to a top speed of 222 km/h.
Comparables
The 2014 Audi A3 e-tron has no direct competitors at the moment, although many manufacturers have performance-oriented hybrids and plug-in hybrids underway.
At the moment, the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid, Acura ILX Hybrid and Lexus CT200h are its closest rivals.
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