Audi A3 Might Get 1.4-Litre Petrol Engine

Audi's smallest sedan, the A3, was introduced in the Indian market two years ago and, apart from bringing a convertible variant, the sedan hasn't got any update since then. However, the facelifted version of the sedan is already available in the international market and the German automaker plans to bring it in the country by early 2017. The upcoming sedan is likely to be powered by a 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine.

The German carmaker has successfully mounted this powerplant on the latest iteration of its best-selling entry-level luxury sedan, the Audi A4, and will be looking to repeat it with its smaller sibling. Though considerably smaller than the 2.0-litre and 1.8-litre engines, the 1.4-litre motor on the A4 is still able to dish out a healthy 150PS of power and 250Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG transmission and the same set-up is expected to feature on the new A3.

Currently, the petrol Audi A3 that is sold in India is powered by the 40TFSI 1.8-litre petrol motor that is good for 180PS and 250Nm. It comes mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox as the A3 Cabriolet also gets optional paddle shifters. The torque rating remains constant in both the mills but there is a straight 30PS loss in power, which could attract a family buyer but repel the enthusiast.

Apart from the engine, the 2017 A3 is also set to receive cosmetic updates in line with Audi’s new design philosophy. This would include restyled bumpers, wider front grille, and revised taillights. Talking money, the prices are set to go south from the current Rs 27.1 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) because of the smaller engine. This would mean even better affordability for the Audi A3, and even tougher competition for the likes of the Mercedes-Benz CLA.

Source: CarDekho.com