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Audi debuts redesigned five-door A3 Sportback



 
 
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Old September 23rd 12, 05:43 AM posted to alt.autos.audi
MummyChunk
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Posts: 174
Default Audi debuts redesigned five-door A3 Sportback

From AB





The new Audi A3 Sportback

- More functional than ever with five doors and 1,220 liters of
luggage capacity
- Audi ultra and advanced engine technology for low CO2 emissions
- Driver assistance systems from the full-size class

Ingolstadt, 2012-09-20 -- Sporty, versatile and progressive – Audi
presents the new A3 Sportback. The compact five-door model with the
spacious luggage compartment breaks new ground in terms of vehicle
weight thanks to ultra lightweight construction technology. The
engines are powerful and efficient. The infotainment and driver
assistance systems available in the new A3 Sportback set new standards
in the premium compact segment.

Exterior design
The new Audi A3 Sportback is long and lean. While the length (4,310
millimeters [14.14 ft]), width (1,780 millimeters [5.84 ft]) and
height (1,425 millimeters [4.68 ft]) are only slightly greater than on
the previous model, the wheelbase now measures 2,636 millimeters (8.65
ft), an increase of 58 millimeters (2.28 in). This makes the five-door
model 35 millimeters (1.38 in) longer between the axles than the
three-door version.

The design with the three side windows is taut and concentrated, with
every detail precise and expressive. The distinguishing element at the
front of the vehicle is the distinctive, stone gray single-frame
grille with the angled upper corners. The lower edges of the flat
headlights taper off at an angle. Audi offers optional xenon plus
headlights with LED daytime running lights, with LED headlights to
follow somewhat later. Large air intakes up front hint at the power of
the engines.

The sharply defined tornado line articulates the flank below the
windows and evokes a powerful shoulder. The dynamic line above the
side sills runs upward toward the rear.

The tautly curved surfaces, the large, precisely defined wheel wells,
the relatively narrow, sharply sloping C pillars and the understated
roof spoiler underscore the sporty nature of the A3 Sportback, as do
the exterior mirrors, which as with a sports car are perched on the
doors.

The rear is extremely sculptured, and the split rear lights underscore
its width. Audi offers LED rear lights in combination with the xenon
plus headlights; LED light conductors appear to form a continuous
arch. The adaptive brake light, which pulses at high frequency during
hard braking, is standard. A sharp crease sets off the diffuser.
Depending on the engine, the exhaust system terminates in one or two
tailpipes on the left side of the car.

Audi offers the A3 Sportback in a choice of 13 colors – three solid
finishes, eight metallic finishes and two pearl-effect finishes. The
optional high-gloss package adds accents around the windows (standard
with the Ambiente trim line). Particularly sporty customers can choose
the S line sport package or S line exterior package.

Ultra lightweight body
The Audi ultra lightweight design principle has long been a sturdy
pillar for the brand. It reduces the weight of the new A3 Sportback by
as much as 90 kilograms (198.42 lb) compared with the previous
version. Equipped with the 1.4 TFSI engine, the five-door model has a
curb weight (without driver) of just 1,205 kilograms (2,656.57 lb).
Audi, the worldwide pioneer in lightweight construction, has once
again reversed the weight spiral and set a new record.

High-end components of hot-shaped steel in the occupant cell form a
strong, yet lightweight structure. They comprise a large portion of
the body and are a major factor behind the weight savings of 37
kilograms (81.57 lb) in the occupant cell. High- and
ultra-high-strength steels are used in many other areas. The engine
hood, the fenders, the profile behind the front bumper and the
subframe for the front axle are made of aluminum. Together they save
roughly 12 kilograms (26.46 lb) and thus improve axle load
distribution.

The body of the Audi A3 Sportback is extremely stiff and quiet, as
components such as a noise-insulating windshield reduce interior noise
levels. Thanks to extensive fine-tuning that also included the engine
compartment and the underbody, the coefficient of drag is just 0.30.
Passive safety is also top-notch. In the event of a collision with a
pedestrian, a pyrotechnic element at the back of the engine hood
raises it several centimeters to cushion the impact.

Interior
The interior of the new A3 Sportback is marked by an elegant, clean
and light design. Lines and surfaces are sinuously taut. A long arch
runs below the windshield in the style of the large Audi models. The
instrument panel with its curved front is lean and low. It and the
center console, which is angled slightly toward the driver, appear to
hover, evoking a sense of freedom behind the wheel.

The intuitively clean ergonomics are a classic Audi strength. The MMI
operating system with the power-retractable monitor is available with
the MMI radio and above. Its terminal is located on the console of the
center tunnel, which is flanked by high knee pads. A button for the
electromechanical parking brake replaces the handbrake lever – another
solution from the Audi full-size class.

The driver seats at an elegant steering wheel. Depending on the
version, it has three or four spokes, a flat-bottomed rim,
multifunction buttons and shift paddles. The large dial instruments
can be easily read at a glance. The newly developed front seats offer
outstanding body guidance and support. Sport seats are available as an
option (standard with Ambition).

Thanks to the 58 millimeters (2.28 in) by which the wheelbase has
grown, the A3 Sportback offers ample rear seat space and easy access
for three adults. The A3 Sportback also offers several millimeters
more head and leg room than its predecessor.

The interior of the new A3 Sportback conveys the luxurious look and
feel of the full-size class. The sculpted inlays are just one of the
highlights. Audi offers a choice of Aluminum Mistral or the 3D-design
"Optic" inlays (standard with Ambiente) as options. This
top-of-the-line version is manufactured in a complex process to
produce a glass-like appearance with intense depth.

The four large, round air nozzles in a jet design are additional
examples of the aesthetics of technology. The stream of air can be
adjusted between a diffuse and a targeted flow by tapping and pulling
on the center axis.

The control unit for the optional deluxe automatic air conditioning is
mounted on a black, piano-finish fascia. The instrument cluster fascia
is also black. Many control elements are optionally available in an
aluminum-look finish, and the interior lighting package (standard with
Ambiente) includes subtle LED lights.

The colors in the interior are matched to the trim line. In the A3
Sportback Attraction, the interior is black or titanium gray; the
interior of the sporty Ambition line is either all black or black with
additional silver, blue or yellow contrasting elements. The two-color
Audi design selection capri orange, an exclusive suggestion of the
Audi designers, provides access to the world of youthful colors. The
colors pashmina beige and chestnut brown are available with the
luxurious Ambiente trim line.

The materials provide for further differentiation. Cloth seats are
standard with the Attraction and Ambition lines; Ambiente comes
standard with a mix of cloth and synthetic leather. Options include
Milano leather or a combination of Pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara.
The Milano leather sport seats are covered with soft Velvet leather in
the shoulder region.

The S line sport package, which is available for the A3 Sportback
Ambition, completely immerses the interior in black. The sport seats
are covered with a combination of Biathlon cloth and leather. Accents
are provided by silver seams and piping on the floor mats, while the
inlays are made of matt brushed aluminum or high-gloss 3D-design
black. A shift lever with perforated leather and a special leather
sport steering wheel round out the package.

The luggage compartment offers 380 liters (13.42 cu ft) of space in
the basic configuration. The capacity expands to 1,220 liters (43.08
cu ft) with the seats folded down. The cargo floor is flat. The
opening between the wheel wells measures 100 centimeters (39.37 in).
The cargo floor can be inserted on two levels, and the supports on
which it rests are marked with small LED lights. The rear seat can be
folded down in a 60:40 split or as a whole. Hooks for bags and
tie-down rings are standard. Options include a reversible mat, a
storage and luggage compartment package, a pass-through opening and a
ski and snowboard bag.

Engines
Audi is initially offering the new A3 Sportback with a choice of one
TDI and two TFSI engines. Two diesel engines and one gasoline unit
will follow somewhat later. They combine multiple efficiency
technologies – direct injection, turbocharging, innovative thermal
management and the start-stop system. Fuel consumption has been
reduced on average by around 10 percent compared with the previous
model.

The 1.6 TDI is the most efficient engine in the model lineup. The
compact diesel, which is characterized by minimal internal friction,
consumes on average just 3.8 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (61.90
US mpg) when paired with the manual transmission. This corresponds to
CO2 emissions of 99 g/km (159.33 g/mile). The 1.6-liter engine
accelerates the Audi A3 Sportback from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in
10.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 194 km/h (120.55 mph).

The newly developed 2.0 TDI, with balance shafts that now rotate in
the crankcase, is available in two versions. Performance data for the
front-wheel-drive A3 Sportback equipped with the 110 kW (150 hp)
engine producing 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) are 8.4 seconds for the sprint
from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) and a top speed of 213 km/h (132.55
mph). Average fuel consumption is just 4.6 liters per 100 km (51.13
mph), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 120 grams per kilometer
(193.12 g/mile).

The more powerful version of the 2.0 TDI offers 135 kW (184 hp) and
380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque. The key data (with manual
transmission and front-wheel drive): zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in
7.4 seconds, top speed of 232 km/h (144.16 mph), average fuel
consumption of 4.3 liters per 100 km (54.70 US mpg) and 111 grams CO2
per km (178.64 g/mile).

Following somewhat later is the 1.2 TFSI, which with its aluminum
crankcase is rigorously designed for low weight and minimal friction.
It produces 77 kW (105 hp) and 175 Nm (129.07 lb-ft) of torque.
Together with S tronic, it accelerates the A3 Sportback from zero to
100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 10.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 193
km/h (119.92 mph). Average fuel consumption is just 4.9 liters per 100
km (48.00 US mpg), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 114 grams per km
(183.47 g/mile).

The new 1.4 TFSI in the A3 Sportback, which now also features an
aluminum block, weighs just 107 kilograms (235.89 lb) – 21 kilograms
(46.30 lb) less than its predecessor. It produces 90 kW (122 hp) and
200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque, accelerating the A3 Sportback from
zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 9.3 seconds on its way to a top speed
of 203 km/h (149.73 mph). Its average fuel consumption is 5.3 liters
of fuel per 100 km (44.38 US mpg), which corresponds to 123 grams of
CO2/km (197.95 g/mile).

A second version of the 1.4 TFSI to follow somewhat later produces 103
kW (140 hp) and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque. It features the
innovative cylinder on demand (COD) system, which deactivates the
second and third cylinders at low to intermediate loads and while
coasting.

The powerful 1.4-liter engine's average fuel consumption is thus 4.7
liters of fuel per 100 km (50.05 US mpg); CO2 emissions are just 110
grams per km (177.03 g/mile). Performance is sporty, with a time of
8.4 seconds for the standard sprint (with manual transmission) and a
top speed of 213 km/h (132.35 mph).

The new 1.8 TFSI, the most powerful gasoline engine in the lineup,
produces 132 kW (180 hp) and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque. It
combines FSI direct injection with indirect injection and uses the
Audi valvelift system to vary valve lift as required. The exhaust
manifold is integrated into the cylinder head – a similar solution is
also used in the two smaller TFSI engines. Key performance data with S
tronic and front-wheel drive: from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.3
seconds, top speed of 232 km/h (144.16 mph) and average fuel
consumption of 5.6 liters per 100 km (42.00 US mpg) corresponding to
130 grams CO2 per km (209.21 g/mile).

Audi will quickly expand the range of engines for the A3 Sportback. It
includes a dynamic S model and additional high-efficiency,
low-emissions variants. Set to debut in 2013 is an 81-kW (110-hp) TCNG
engine for operation with Audi e-gas, a fuel that Audi produces itself
in sustainable manner. In the holistic well-to-wheel analysis, the CO2
emissions of the A3 Sportback TCNG are below 30 g/km (48.28 g/mile).
The A3 Sportback e-tron with a powerful plug-in hybrid drive will
follow in 2014.

Power transmission
All engines in the new Audi A3 Sportback are paired with a manual
six-speed transmission. S tronic is available as an option with all
engines. Depending on the version, the dual-clutch transmission shifts
extremely quickly and nearly imperceptibly through six or seven
gears.

The driver can operate S tronic via the selector lever or with the
optional paddles on the steering wheel. Revs are somewhat higher in
the automatic S mode, whereas D mode prioritizes taller gear ratios.
When combined with Audi drive select (standard in the A3 Ambition), S
tronic includes a free-wheeling function in efficiency mode that
further reduces fuel consumption.

With engines producing up to 103 kW (140 hp), the power is delivered
to the front wheels. quattro permanent all-wheel drive featuring a
newly developed multi-plate clutch is available as an option for the
1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TDI.

The hydraulically actuated and electronically controlled component,
which can send the power from the front to the rear axle in just a few
milliseconds, weighs significantly less than the previous unit.

Chassis
The chassis of the new Audi A3 Sportback is balanced, harmonious and
sporty thanks to the finely balanced distribution of axle loads. The
front axle has been shifted forward by 40 millimeters (1.57 in)
compared with the previous model, shortening the overhang
correspondingly. All of the engines are installed tilted backward by
12 degrees with the exhaust end facing the bulkhead. This concept is
an element of the modular transverse platform (MQB).

The front axle of the Audi A3 Sportback is a McPherson construction
with wishbones and lightweight aluminum pivot bearings. It is mounted
on an aluminum subframe. Mounted on a steel subframe, the four-link
rear suspension handles longitudinal and transverse forces
independently. The springs and dampers are mounted separately. The two
sport suspensions available lower the body by 15 or 25 millimeters
(0.59 or 0.98 in), respectively.

The electromechanical power steering with a direct steering ratio of
15.3:1 is sensitive and highly efficient. Its drive unit consumes no
energy while driving straight ahead – a key contribution to overall
efficiency. The steering works closely together with a variety of
assistance systems, including Audi active lane assist and the parking
assistant. The turning circle measures just 10.9 meters (35.76 ft).

Depending on the trim line, the new Audi A3 Sportback rolls on 16 or
17-inch wheels, with attractively designed wheels up to 18 inches in
diameter available as options.

Powerful brakes provide the stopping power; the front discs are
internally vented. The ESC electronic stabilization control includes
the electronic limited slip differential, which helps the driver when
cornering. If a wheel on one of the axles spins, the electronic
limited slip differential brakes it slightly, causing the car to turn
slightly into the corner. The electromechanical parking brake can be
supplemented with a hill hold assist function.

Audi drive select (standard with Ambition) makes driving the new A3
Sportback an even more versatile and inspiring experience. The driver
decides with the push of a button whether the accelerator, the power
steering and the optional S tronic operate in comfort, automatic,
dynamic, individual or efficiency mode.

In the latter mode, the optional deluxe automatic air conditioning,
adaptive light and adaptive cruise control also operate in a mode
targeted to optimize fuel consumption.

Another optional technology controlled via Audi drive select is the
electromagnetic damper control system Audi magnetic ride. The system
offers a comfortable and a sporty characteristic. Its control unit
continuously adjusts the damping forces in milliseconds depending on
road conditions and the driver's style. The body sits 15 millimeters
(0.59 in) lower with this system.

Infotainment
The new Audi A3 Sportback presents a groundbreaking innovation in
mobile communications electronics – the modular infotainment platform
(MIB). The concept behind it enables very fast innovation cycles in
development.

The central computer of the new MMI includes the MMX board (MMX:
Multi-Media eXtension). One of the plug-in module's key components is
the fast T-20 graphics process from market leader Nvidia's Tegra 2
series. The chip, which generates complex 3D images, is used in all
online, voice control, media, navigation and telephone functions.

The high-resolution monitor of the MMI operating system measures
either 5.8 or 7 inches in diagonal and extends automatically from the
instrument panel.

Just 11 millimeters (0.43 in) thick, its lightweight magnesium housing
is finished in high-gloss black for an elegant, premium appearance.

Audi is also presenting important innovations for the control terminal
on the center tunnel console. The permanent toggle switches – the hard
keys – for navigation, telephone, radio and media have been
rearranged. With the top-of-the-line MMI navigation plus, the large
rotary pushbutton with MMI touch – a solution from Audi's full-size
models – has been consolidated into a touch wheel. The touch-sensitive
field, on which drivers can enter letters and numbers with their
fingers, forms the surface of the control wheel.

The new Audi A3 Sportback comes standard with the Audi radio. The next
level up, the MMI radio, includes the control terminal and the
power-retractable 5.8-inch monitor. This can be supplemented with the
optional connectivity package, which includes the Audi music interface
for the integration of a mobile player, a Bluetooth interface and
navigation system preparation.

If the customer later buys an SD card with navigation data or chooses
the navigation package from the very beginning, the MMI radio becomes
a navigation system.

The top version is the MMI navigation plus with MMI touch – a media
center with 60 GB of storage capacity, DVD drive and whole-word voice
control. The high-resolution 7-inch monitor displays the map with
detailed 3D graphics. Mobile phones and players can be paired with MMI
navigation plus through the integrated Bluetooth interface.

A number of attractive modules round out the range, including a module
for digital audio broadcasting and the Audi Phone Box for easily
connecting the mobile phone to the vehicle antenna. The optional Bang
& Olufsen sound system, whose 705-watt, 5.1-channel amplifier
drives 14 speakers, is available in addition to the Audi Sound System.
LED light guides illuminate the fames of the woofers in the front
doors.

Audi connect
The term Audi connect refers to all technologies that connect the
driver of an Audi to the car, the Internet, the infrastructure, and
other vehicles. The hardware component is the Bluetooth online car
phone, which is called Audi connect in the new A3 Sportback.

The Bluetooth online car phone, an extension of MMI navigation plus,
connects to the Internet via UMTS. The integrated WLAN hotspot allows
passengers to freely surf and send e-mails on up to eight mobile
devices. The system delivers tailored Internet services for the
driver, from navigation with images from Google Earth and Google POI
search to Audi traffic information online and the smartphone app Audi
music stream. News and information services round out the range.

Audi connect also integrates apps into the infotainment system that
deliver the online community services Facebook and Twitter in a form
specially adapted for in-vehicle use. Joining the text-to-speech
function is a practical text function: Prepared text modules can be
combined with data such as the current position of the vehicle, for
example, to keep the driver's friends informed of the driver's
location, if desired.

A new service from Audi connect is Picturebook Navigation. The driver
stores photos of destinations linked with navigation data in a
"picture book" on a server. These can be the driver's own
photos or images from Google Earth or the online community.

The driver can then use the images to put together a route. This
service is particularly attractive for vacations.

Driver assistance systems
The new Audi A3 Sportback also uses advanced technologies for the
driver assistance systems. The most important of these is Audi
adaptive cruise control. At speeds up to 150 km/h (93.21 mph), the
radar-based cruise control keeps the car at an interval defined by the
driver from the car ahead. With the assistance package, which combines
multiple systems, the system is active at speeds up to 200 km/h
(124.27 mph). In combination with S tronic, ACC offers a stop & go
function for low speeds.

Additional systems round out the lineup. Audi side assist monitors
lane changes with rear-facing radar, and Audi active lane assist helps
drivers remain in their lane by slightly correcting the
electromechanical steering, if necessary. The latter system's video
camera is also used for the traffic sign recognition system, which
displays speed limits and other signs. The driver information system
with rest recommendation detects when the driver is getting tired and
issues a warning.

Several systems are available to make parking easier; the top of the
line is the park assist system with 360° display. It takes over
steering from the driver when parking in both parallel and
perpendicular spaces, maneuvering multiple times, if necessary. Its
twelve ultrasonic sensors detect obstacles all round the vehicle. The
park assist system can be supplemented with a reversing camera.

Another high-end option is the safety system Audi pre sense basic. If
the A3 Sportback begins to skid, it tenses the front seat belts
electrically, and the windows and sunroof begin to close. The
additional function pre sense front is integrated into the adaptive
cruise control. In the event of a pending rear-end collision with the
vehicle ahead, it warns the driver in stages and initiates precise and
partial braking, if necessary.

At speeds below 30 km/h (18.64 mph), Audi pre sense front brakes the
A3 Sportback in an emergency with nearly full power. If a collision
occurs nevertheless, a new subsystem is activated: the multicollision
brake assistant. It ensures that the vehicle does not continue to roll
uncontrolled.

Features
Audi is launching the new A3 Sportback with a generous array of
standard features. The package of restraint systems, which also
includes a knee airbag for the driver, can be supplemented with side
airbags in the back. The comprehensive list of standard equipment
includes such features as a manual air conditioner and a tire pressure
indicator.

The driver information system with color display is standard with the
Ambition and Ambiente lines. Besides the rest recommendation function,
it also includes the efficiency program with gear-change indicator.

The A3 Sportback Ambition also includes sport seats, a sport
suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels and the Audi drive select system.
Ambiente includes cruise control, an LED interior lighting package and
a rear parking system. Individual options directly from the luxury
class are available in all trim lines for further customization. These
include the panoramic glass roof, the convenience key and auxiliary
heating.

Lighting technology
The new Audi A3 Sportback can be optionally equipped with xenon plus
headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights. These form a
narrow, visually homogenous contour of light at the top and inside
edges, like an eyebrow. If xenon plus headlights are fitted, the rear
lights also use LED technology. Light guides fed by LEDs light up in
flat, uniform arcs; the turn signal lights close the contour as a
strip on the upper edge. The adaptive brake light, which pulses during
hard braking, is standard.

The xenon-based Audi adaptive light swivels into curves. It is also
linked to the navigation system and can be upgraded with special
lighting functions of urban, interurban and highway driving, as well
as for intersections and tourist attractions. When combined with the
front-facing camera, the light-dark boundary of the headlights is
automatically and steplessly adjusted for substantially improved
visibility and safety.

A true first in the premium compact class are the optional LED
headlights, which previously have only been available in large-size
vehicles. The low beams are generated in two free-form reflectors with
a total of nine high-performance LED chips. Ten high-performance LEDs
in the matt aluminum trim provide the high beams.

Depending on the features chosen, the high beams are switched on
automatically and LED cornering lights illuminate tight corners.
Interurban, highway and tourist attraction lighting round out the
lighting convenience functions. The all-weather lights enhance safety
in fog or snow.

Interior accents are provided by illumination of the interior door
controls, the footwell and the cup holder, as well as an ambient light
from the roof module that shines on the center console. The touch
wheel of the MMI navigation plus is also illuminated via a light
guide.

The new Audi A3 Sportback will begin appearing in German dealerships
in February 2013. The 1.2 TFSI will be available somewhat later for a
base price of €22,500. Its sporty, functional and comfortable
character will appeal to a broad public. In many cases it will be
purchased as a second car. The second-largest target group, however,
is single-car households and singles up to the age of 39, many of them
women. display. It takes over steering from the driver when parking in
both parallel and perpendicular spaces, maneuvering multiple times, if
necessary. Its twelve ultrasonic sensors detect obstacles all round
the vehicle. The park assist system can be supplemented with a
reversing camera.

Another high-end option is the safety system Audi pre sense basic. If
the A3 Sportback begins to skid, it tenses the front seat belts
electrically, and the windows and sunroof begin to close. The
additional function pre sense front is integrated into the adaptive
cruise control. In the event of a pending rear-end collision with the
vehicle ahead, it warns the driver in stages and initiates precise and
partial braking, if necessary.

At speeds below 30 km/h (18.64 mph), Audi pre sense front brakes the
A3 Sportback in an emergency with nearly full power. If a collision
occurs nevertheless, a new subsystem is activated: the multicollision
brake assistant. It ensures that the vehicle does not continue to roll
uncontrolled.

Features
Audi is launching the new A3 Sportback with a generous array of
standard features. The package of restraint systems, which also
includes a knee airbag for the driver, can be supplemented with side
airbags in the back. The comprehensive list of standard equipment
includes such features as a manual air conditioner and a tire pressure
indicator.

The driver information system with color display is standard with the
Ambition and Ambiente lines. Besides the rest recommendation function,
it also includes the efficiency program with gear-change indicator.

The A3 Sportback Ambition also includes sport seats, a sport
suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels and the Audi drive select system.
Ambiente includes cruise control, an LED interior lighting package and
a rear parking system. Individual options directly from the luxury
class are available in all trim lines for further customization. These
include the panoramic glass roof, the convenience key and auxiliary
heating.

Lighting technology
The new Audi A3 Sportback can be optionally equipped with xenon plus
headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights. These form a
narrow, visually homogenous contour of light at the top and inside
edges, like an eyebrow. If xenon plus headlights are fitted, the rear
lights also use LED technology. Light guides fed by LEDs light up in
flat, uniform arcs; the turn signal lights close the contour as a
strip on the upper edge. The adaptive brake light, which pulses during
hard braking, is standard.

The xenon-based Audi adaptive light swivels into curves. It is also
linked to the navigation system and can be upgraded with special
lighting functions of urban, interurban and highway driving, as well
as for intersections and tourist attractions. When combined with the
front-facing camera, the light-dark boundary of the headlights is
automatically and steplessly adjusted for substantially improved
visibility and safety.

A true first in the premium compact class are the optional LED
headlights, which previously have only been available in large-size
vehicles. The low beams are generated in two free-form reflectors with
a total of nine high-performance LED chips. Ten high-performance LEDs
in the matt aluminum trim provide the high beams.

Depending on the features chosen, the high beams are switched on
automatically and LED cornering lights illuminate tight corners.
Interurban, highway and tourist attraction lighting round out the
lighting convenience functions. The all-weather lights enhance safety
in fog or snow.

Interior accents are provided by illumination of the interior door
controls, the footwell and the cup holder, as well as an ambient light
from the roof module that shines on the center console. The touch
wheel of the MMI navigation plus is also illuminated via a light
guide.

The new Audi A3 Sportback will begin appearing in German dealerships
in February 2013. The 1.2 TFSI will be available somewhat later for a
base price of

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  #2  
Old September 24th 12, 10:54 AM posted to alt.autos.audi
AD[_2_]
external usenet poster
 
Posts: 423
Default Audi debuts redesigned five-door A3 Sportback


> High-end components of hot-shaped steel in the occupant cell form a
> strong, yet lightweight structure. They comprise a large portion of
> the body and are a major factor behind the weight savings of 37
> kilograms (81.57 lb) in the occupant cell. High- and
> ultra-high-strength steels are used in many other areas. The engine
> hood, the fenders, the profile behind the front bumper and the
> subframe for the front axle are made of aluminum. Together they save
> roughly 12 kilograms (26.46 lb) and thus improve axle load
> distribution.


It's a frontwheel driver for crissakes, not a bmw 1xx.
who cares about its weight distribution?

as long as you get the left to right weight distribution of that
contraption
close to half and half the target clientele won't utter a word of
complaint
 




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