The first indiscretions regarding the future generation 2012 Audi A3 surfaced the web today, thanks to our German sources. Apparently, the 2012 Audi A3 will be premiered next year, in March, at the Geneva Auto Show. Audi's 2012 A3 line-up will offer more versions than before, while being more economic and lighter. Stefan Sielaff, Audi's Chief Designer, says that the new 2012 Audi A3 will have only minor styling modifications. Audi is focusing more on the A3's quality, comfort and efficiency, rather than its looks.
The 2012 Audi A3 will be available with two wheelbase lengths: 4.26 m for the two-door convertible and 4.44 m for the Sportback).
Audi says they're planning to sell the 2012 A3 in four body styles, including a 5-door Sportback, a two-door convertible and a sedan. Audi managed to build the 2012 A3 10% lighter than the current model, which should reduce the car's fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. At the same time, this will improve its performance and handling. To lower the weigh of the 2012 A3, Audi is using an aluminum hood, and several other re-engineered components.
The 2012 Audi A3 will feature LED taillights with homogeneous lighting strips, wider wheel arches,
and a re-styled interior. Mr. Sielaff mentioned that the interior of the 2012 A3 will resemble the one of the Audi A3 e tron concept, premiered in Shanghai earlier this year. The new A3 will come with a built-in WiFi hotspot, and a touch pad.
The 2012 Audi A3 will be one of Volkswagen Group's first models to come equipped with the new 1.4 TSI 4-cyclinder petrol engine with cylinder deactivation. This new unit is able to shut down two of its cylinders, when they extra power they provide is not needed. This greatly reduces the engine's fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. At 50 km/h, the 140 Ps 4.1-liter engine is able to save up to 1 liter of fuel every 100 km.
In terms of safety, the 2012 Audi A3 will feature the latest technology developed in Ingolstadt. A3's equipment list will include a road sign detection system, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function, automatic emergency braking, emergency lane assist and parking assist.
We'll have more info on the 2012 Audi A3 as soon as it becomes available.
[Source: Auto Motor und Sport]
