Audi unveils new plug-in hybrid A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e

Audi has unveiled the new plug-in hybrid A3 Sportback 40 TSFI e, which is equipped with a more powerful and efficient powertrain than the variants previously announced when the facelifted A3 and S3 first broke cover.

At the heart of the drive system is a new turbocharged petrol engine, and an electric motor with improved power density.

Compared to the mild hybrid A3s, the plug-in hybrid's axle load distribution is slightly more rear-heavy due to the lithium-ion battery below the rear seat bench

The electric drive is powered by a permanently excited synchronous motor that can deliver 85kW. Like its predecessor, it is merged with the six-speed S tronic's housing that is now equipped with a more robust gearbox bearing to cope with the higher system output.

In the U.K., the A3 Sportback 40 TSFI e uses the 1.5 TFSI evo2 engine (replacing the previous 1.4 TFSI one) with a plethora of high-tech features, and with a power output of 148bhp and 250Nm of torque.

When combined with the electric motor, however, its peak power jumps to 201bhp and 350Nm of torque, making it possible to go 0-100km/h in 7.4 seconds and hit a top speed of 225km/h. In all-electric mode, the top speed is 140km/h.

Special displays in the Audi virtual cockpit Plus provide information like the drive mode, battery charge status, and range

Direct current fast-charging is also available for a plug-in hybrid Audi for the first time, with a speed of up to 50kW, allowing the battery to be recharged from 10% to 80% in less than half an hour. The car is also able to go up to 142km on a full charge.

Following the A3 lineup, the new car is offered in the U.K. in Sport, S line, and Black Edition variants, all of which will be fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels and the Audi drive select dynamic handling system.