Last time we caught up with the next generation of the Audi A3, Ingolstadt’s engineers were testing the three-door hatchback in Argentina. Now, we’ve spied Audi’s premium compact model half way across the world while testing in northern Sweden.
The third iteration of the A3 series will mark a switch to the Volkswagen Group’s brand-new flexible MQB architecture that will be shared with a myriad of models including the next generations of the VW Golf and even the Passat.
Under the sheetmetal, the new A3’s powertrain lineup will be exclusively turbocharged offering a variety of gasoline and diesel engines that will top out with a high-performance 2.0-liter TFSI in the sporty S3 and an even more powerful inline-five for the RS3.
The new A3 will also be available with the VW Group’s newly revealed 140HP turbocharged 1.4-liter TFSI gasoline engine with a cylinder deactivation system that enables it to work on two cylinders on partial loads to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions.
While we’ve only spotted the three-door hatchback, the next A3 will be offered in numerous body styles including the five-door Sportback, a four-door sedan and a two-door convertible model.
The three-door hatch and convertible versions will measure just under 4.3 m in length and feature a 2,595mm-long wheelbase, while the Sportback and saloon models will sport a longer wheelbase at 2,630mm.
The styling of all variants will be edgier than today’s A3 series with the design heavily influenced by the A3 Sedan Concept models.
The new A3 will most likely make its world premiere at next year’s Geneva Salon in March, with sales to follow in the second half of 2012.
Photo Credits: CarPix
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