Audi Spills Beans on New A3 Ahead of Geneva

Early Unveiling

We're only a few weeks away from the newly revised Audi A3's debut at the Geneva International Motor Show. But you don't have to wait that long to catch a glimpse at the reworked A3 Sportback, as Audi has already released pictures and tons of details on the latest version of their venerable luxury machine. 

Photos: Audi  

Some Updates

The new A3 is technically more of a revised version of the outgoing model than an all-new vehicle, of course. It still rides on the same MQB modular platform as its predecessor but sports a host of updates including new all-wheel drive, suspension damping, and speed-sensitive steering systems. 

Photos: Audi

>>Join the conversation about the new A3 right here in Audiworld.com.

Splitting Torque

All-wheel-drive is both optional and standard, depending on which model you go for. But the new A3 Quattro system has the ability to adjust torque distribution based on information gathered from suspension sensors, road conditions, and driving style. Under normal circumstances, the system sends the majority of engine torque to the front wheels for efficiency purposes, but can also send 100% of the torque to the rear wheels if needed.

Photos: Audi

>>Join the conversation about the new A3 right here in Audiworld.com.

Better Cornering

The new A3 can also distribute torque individually to all four wheels using a brake-based system linked to the vehicle's electronic stability control. Under hard cornering, the system actually applies the brakes of the inside two wheels slightly, which helps improve turn-in response. In addition, the new speed-sensitive steering features an improved feel thanks to a special shape and toothing of the rack and pinion steering system.

Photos: Audi

>>Join the conversation about the new A3 right here in Audiworld.com.

Adjustable Damping

The new A3 utilizes three levels of adjustable suspension damping - Comfort, Auto, and Dynamic. Each uses information gathered from sensors to provide the desired feedback. This system will come standard with most A3 models, but Audi hasn't defined which ones that will be just yet.

Photos: Audi

>>Join the conversation about the new A3 right here in Audiworld.com.

Powertrain Questions

The automaker has also remained tight-lipped on what sort of powertrains we'll see in the new A3. But we imagine that there will be a diesel available outside of the U.S., and expect there to be mild-hybrid systems and even a plug-in hybrid as part of the offerings. And of course, Audi will soldier on with its S3 and RS 3 performance models.

Photos: Audi

>>Join the conversation about the new A3 right here in Audiworld.com.

Packing Promise

We'll be able to fill in the rest of the blanks in regards to the new Audi A3 when the car officially bows at the Geneva Motor Show on March 2. But at least for now, this revised model looks to pack a ton of promise in terms of providing a fun, sporty driving experience.

Photos: Audi

>>Join the conversation about the new A3 right here in Audiworld.com.

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