Audi Approves R8 EV, A3 Sedan For US Market
Audi’s US market product plans have been spilled to Automotive News [sub], and there are a few surprises in the mix. The e-tron all-electric R8 has reportedly been given a green light for production within two to three years. Staying with Audi’s EV plans, there’s word that the Europe-only A2 could be brought back as an EV for the US market. Though the all-aluminum A2 ceased production in 2005, the AN report is unclear whether a possible A2 EV for the US would be based on a new version of this blogger’s favorite city car. An A3 sedan has reportedly been approved for the US as well, although rumors that the forthcoming A1 could be coming stateside as well have been squashed over currency concerns. A restyled A8 is planned for 2010, and an A6 refresh is scheduled for 2011. Meanwhile, the A7 (shown as the Sportback concept) will go into production in Europe, although it doesn’t seem likely to arrive in the US. A Q3 crossover is planned for 2011, but not until a hybrid version of the Q5 debuts. Audi has dropped FWD TT models from its lineup, and is considering selling an A4 with the Q7’s 3.0 twin-turbo diesel V6.
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Here's what I'd bet about that comparo, based on what I know about each car: BMW wins in: handling, steering, engine refinement, 0-60, price Audi wins in: interior styling, back seat room Let me know if I'm close here...and no, I haven't read the article.
FreedMike : Audi wins in back seat room? I haven't been in a 3 series lately, but if it has worse rear seating than the A3/4, then putting an adult back there must qualify as torture under the Geneva conventions. Who are they designing the A3 sedan for? The A3 wagon merely ekes by in accessibility for those of us who endure height discrimination. The A2, in comparison, was well designed seat to ceiling.
Audi haters must be rebuked! I've had a few tall (6ft and a couple of inches)folks in my A3, front and back without much complaints. At just over 35,000 miles I've had no problems. In fact it's the greatest new car I've ever had. Okay it's only my fourth new car but still I love it.
@FreedMike, You do know that the A3 and A4 run on different platforms correct? The A4 is definitely bigger than it used to be. A 1996 A4 is about the same size as the A3 is now. As for space, my 25000 miles in an A3 have proven that people over 6' fit quite well thank you.