New York 2014: Audi Announces A3 TDI Sportback

Derek Kreindler
by Derek Kreindler

Audi will bring a diesel version of the A3 Sportback to America, using the same 2.0L TDI engine as the upcoming Golf.

With 150 horsepower and 236 lb-ft, the A3 TDI is sure to be a stout little hatchback, but the lack of a manual transmission is a bit perplexing. Even though manual transmissions are on the decline, one would expect that TDI buyers are more inclined to row their own gears. At least the 6-speed S-Stronic dual-clutch gearbox isn’t so bad.

Derek Kreindler
Derek Kreindler

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  • Moorewr Moorewr on Apr 16, 2014

    The previous A3 came with the TDI engine, but FWD/Auto only. Quattro was auto only as well. Perplexing. More perplexing is that VW is showing off a manual TDI AWD SportWagen "concept" here in the US. What's up, VWoA and AoA? Get your wires crossed?

  • Sproc Sproc on Apr 16, 2014

    I'm quite glad to see the Sportbacks creeping back into the line. The sedan looks good, but at this size the five door is vastly more useful. I know it's not everyone's taste by a long shot, but I think they look sharp. As to the Audi premium, a few years back my wife and I did cross shop the '08 4-door GTI and the A3, both with the DSG. Both were excellent cars, but we both liked the A3 ride, noise isolation and ergonomics a lot better. Got a great model year closeout on the A3. At most, we paid maybe a $2k premium over an equivalent GTI. Almost six years later, we still love the car. Audi service departments have been good experiences as well. Now if they'd just bring the S3 Sportback to the States, I'll be camping in front of the dealer with a check in hand.

  • APaGttH APaGttH on Apr 16, 2014

    Its' lines are a much more attractive Malibu MAXX. I like!

  • Doublechili Doublechili on Apr 16, 2014

    Okay, we get that the DSG is a great transmission and that the modern ATs are also great at what they do. I don't care. To paraphrase the gun people for my feeling towards MTs, "my cold dead fingers yada yada". MTs are just way more fun. I've driven a DSG, and it was missing something. Right, actual shifting and a clutch pedal. I feel like DSGs are pretend shifting, and ATs are too, I don't know, automatic. Driving an MT is a more complete driving experience. DSGs and the 17 speed ATs may be nice. MTs are better. We just define "better" differently.

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