Since its introduction in 1996, 1.9 million Audi A3s have been built worldwide, with the one millionth unit of the second generation A3 rolling off the assembly line just days ago. Now Audi feels it is time for a facelift.

The A3 strengthened its place in the premium compact car market with its debut in the United States in 2005, exclusively in the five-door model. Along with a new look, the new 2009 A3 is expected to receive new innovative features such as the S-tronic transmission and Audi magnetic ride with exclusive trim options for the United States market.

The new A3 raises its sporty profile with a number of aesthetic improvements as well as accentuated design. The front end sports a large single frame radiator grille that is reminiscent of the last generation’s front grille. Unlike previous A3’s, the 2009 model has a more expressive front styling that is both sporty and aggressive. The innovative headlamps display a curved trim element known as the “wing” and are similar to the Audi R8’s headlamps. The tail end was redesigned boasting new tail lights and bumper creating an overall lasting impression.

The designers at Audi fine-tuned the A3’s sporty, elegant interior with aluminum elements incorporated in the light switches, air vents and the center console. The instrument panel displays black dials and red needles, evidence of the precision and technology in this modern cabin. Audi plans on offering a panoramic sunroof for the five-door A3 to complete its exquisite and stylistic interior.

Audi remained consistent and unfaltering when designing the engine. The A3 is offered with two gasoline engine options, the 2.0TFSI or the 3.2 V6 engine. The 2.0 is offered standard with a six speed manual transmission and has the option of a six speed automatic S-tronic transmission. The 3.2 V6 is available exclusively with the S-tronic. The all wheel drive Quattro system will be available for the 2.0 and come standard on the 3.2, but it will only be available with S-tronic. Audi packed plenty of power into these engines. The 2.0TFSI is rated at 200 horsepower and 207 pound feet of torque and touts 20 miles per gallon in the city, 29 on the highway. The 3.2 boasts 250 horsepower and 236 pound feet of torque with expectations of 18 miles per gallon/city and 25/highway.

The 2009 A3 will be introduced with a standard fit dynamic suspension providing safety, dynamic handling and comfort rolled into one. Thanks to the four link rear suspension and efficient electromechanical power steering, the balance and precision will be premium. An optional sport suspension will be offered which will provide a 15 millimeter drop and improve stability.

New features available in the A3 include the new adaptive action shock absorber control system which Audi dubbed “Magnetic Ride.” This system will provide the driver with the option of choosing between a sport mode and normal mode, changing the dampening power of the shock absorbers with in milliseconds. Another feature available is the S-tronic dual clutch automatic transmission. The high tech S-tronic is capable of changing gears with extreme speed and smoothness while maintaining impressive efficiency ratio due to its dry running clutches.

The A3 is expected to be available in September, 2008 when dealerships change out model years. To date, there are no promises to add a three door or drop top to the American line up. Expect a base price for this premium compact Audi A3 to start at around $26,000.

Tags: 2.0TFSI, 2009, 3.2 V6, A3, Audi, FSI, Magnetic Ride, Quattro, S Tronic

This entry was posted on Friday, April 25th, 2008 at 5:29 pm and is filed under Audi, Auto Types, Automakers, Sedans/4dr. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.