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Audi A3 saloon concept

First look at design of next A3 as Audi expands new range with saloon model.

Audi A3 saloon concept front

By Tom Phillips

21st February 2011

Audi has booted up its next A3! As well as previewing the look of the next generation of A3, Audi’s four-door, four-seater saloon concept shows that the firm’s second-smallest car range is set to expand.

As well as the three-door A3, A3 Sportback and Cabriolet, Audi will add a saloon model when it launches the next generation range in 2012 to meet demand for premium badged booted models in China and Russia.

The A3 saloon measures 4,400mm long, 1,840mm wide and 1,390mm tall, making it only slightly shorter, wider and lower than the original A4. However, the car is also shorter than VW’s Jetta.

As expected, the A3 concept shows Audi’s latest design language, including the large, shield-shaped single-frame grille, sharply sculpted crease along the shoulder line and angular LED taillights.

For the show car, Audi has elected to fit an upgraded RS3 powertrain, with the 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine’s output boosted to 402bhp. All that power reaches all four wheels via a seven-speed S Tronic gearbox.

When it makes production, the A3 will be the first car to feature the VW Group’s new MQB platform. It’s been designed to accommodate transverse engines, but is modular, so can underpin cars of varying widths and lengths. 

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5 Comments

Super Saloon

Its about time this was released, although it would be based on the Jetta as the A3 is based on the Golf. IIRC the A3 has not done well in the States and I guess other markets because its a hatchback; not everywhere in the world is like the EU with the love affair of hatches.
As for the RS3 engine in it, that would be good. But why boost it up to 400bhp for???? Is it to appear at any shows???

By hotredman on 21 February, 2011, 1:06pm

WOW!

If Audi actually make it look anything like this they're onto a winner, the proportions are gorgeous. One thing though, the boot lid looks mighty small, if they don't open the rear window up fastback style with the boot lid it looks like access could be a problem. Can't wait to see it in the flesh.

By asmithdesign on 22 February, 2011, 7:25am

What a Looker

I've never lusted after an Audi.
The looks have always been "the same old same old"
But this one is stunning.
Lets hope it actually turns out like this.

By toycollector on 22 February, 2011, 11:09am

It's a 1990s A4 from the side

The profile is very reminiscent of Audi's small saloon from the mid-90s. Look up a picture to see what I mean.

By snappyuk on 22 February, 2011, 1:16pm

Since when did we love small saloons?

Granted the Jetta is probably (and Volvo S40) holds some UK interest but the small saloon is hardly going to break new ground, even if Audi bring back the "80" moniker. Asia is where they favour small saloons.

By volvofan on 22 February, 2011, 6:02pm

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Pictures

Audi A3 saloon concept front
Audi A3 saloon concept side
Audi A3 saloon concept rear

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