For the first time ever, the Audi A3 has spawned a three-box sedan body style.
It makes sense, given that the A3 has evolved into a bigger and more sophisticated package, as the A4 has. In fact, it should do well to plug the gap left by those earlier A4s.
Especially since the Saloon has the dimensions to impress tape measures. While sharing its 2636mm wheelbase with the A3 Sportback, the Saloon is 150mm longer (but 9mm lower) and has an impressive luggage capacity of 425 litres, 45 litres more than the aforementioned five-door.
Our local contact tells us that the A3 Saloon is headed to South Africa. Exact timing has yet to be confirmed but given that the UK will get them in the third quarter, we can't see our launch lagging beyond year-end.
On the engine front, overseas versions get the new 103kW/250Nm 1.4 TFSI turbopetrol with fuel-saving Cylinder-on-Demand technology.
This engine is joined by the familiar 132kW/250Nm 1.8-litre TFSI and a 110kW/320Nm 2-litre TDI turbodiesel. Depending on the engine chosen, the A3 is available with either six-speed manual or S Tronic dual-clutch transmission.
Top of the pecking order is the S3 Saloon, which has a generously-boosted 2-litre TFSI motor that pushes 221kW and 380Nm through all four wheels via Audi's Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. When paired with the S Tronic gearbox, the S3 will allegedly dash from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds.
Like its A3 siblings, the Saloon employs the 'Audi ultra' lightweight construction process to keep the weight as low as possible - starting at 1205kg in the case of the base model.
As for aesthetics, Audi's stylists aimed for “a cross between the classic three-box concept and the coupé philosophy.” A muscular presence is created by its short overhangs, 'tornado line' shoulder crease, wider wheel arches and 'kicked-up' boot spoiler.
Inside it's as per the A3 hatchback models, with a minimalistic facia design made possible by the MMI Radio interface with its pop-up colour screen.
Well-heeled customers can also opt for the Navigation plus system with 3D graphics as one of many tantalizing optional extras.