With the current model having been on sale since 2003, Audi can't wait to get its new A3 into showrooms and with that set to happen around the middle of November, Audi has just posted the pricing and specifications on its website.
Audi A3:
1.2T FSI S - 77kW manual - R267 000
1.4T FSI S - 90kW manual - R274 500
1.4T FSI S - 90kW S tronic - R291 500
1.6 TDI S - 77kW S tronic - R302 500
1.8T FSI SE - 132kW manual - R305 000
1.8T FSI SE - 132kW S tronic - R322 000
1.8T FSI SE quattro - 132kW S tronic - R351 500
LIGHTER, LEANER
Despite the familiar styling, this A3 is an all-new car that's built on the VW Group's modular MQB platform that's also shared with the seventh-generation Golf. We're not sure if there's a typo in the new base 1.2T's price, but if not it would seem pointless to opt for the 1.2 when the 1.4 can be had for just R7500 more.
See more pictures of the new A3
The new A3 is a somewhat more sophisticated car that's up to 80kg lighter than its predecessor and it's also more efficient. From front to back it's about the same size as before, although a longer wheelbase results in increased interior space. And if three doors just ain't enough, the new A3 Sportback will be in showrooms early next year.
The new A3's also great to drive. When our UK correspondent John Simister drove it earlier this year, he said it was something of a revelation. Click here for his full report.
OPTIONS GALORE
Since publishing the original article, Audi has sent us details about the standard specifications.
To that end, S models come with Bluetooth, driver information system, automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, front centre arm rest, leather-covered multi-function steering wheel and an LED interior lighting package.
Over and above that, the SE designation adds automatic climate control, sports seats, driver information system in colour and Audi Sound System. Aimed at the more enthusiastic driver, the standard features list extends to 17-inch alloys (replacing the S models’ 16” alloys), Aluminium exterior package, sports suspension and the Audi Drive Select system.
In addition to this, the 1.8T FSI Quattro receives Alcantara/leather seats, Aluminium-look interior and the Audi Music Interface.
As expected, there is a long options list to indulge in. Fancy the Xenon Plus adaptive headlights? That'll be R13 650. Panoramic sunroof? That's R9840 and automatic parking assist is a cool R9200. Milano leather seats will set you back R17 060 and Adaptive Cruise Control is going to relieve you of R5810. Even ordinary cruise control costs an extra R2790 on all models.
In fact, you end up paying more for some rather basic features. A simple set of foglights is R1710 on all but the 1.8T models, hill-hold assist costs R830 and a tyre pressure monitor is R830.
Follow link to see the full specs and pricing list
(Thanks to Joe Kraft for the heads-up)