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Will Audi Bring Its Sporty A3 Hatchback to North America?

New A3 Gets 250-HP V6

What has become a regular question among North American import enthusiasts is once again a hot topic. Will Audi bring its super hot A3 hatchback across the Atlantic to do battle with a host of small premium cars allegedly preparing to do likewise?

While a simple yes cant be confirmed due to tightlipped VW-Audi execs, it seems like a no-brainer for a long list of potential consumers, checkbook in hand. With the premise a future possibility, a look at the newest A3 entry seemed appropriate.

Until now, there hasnt been much activity

Import enthusiasts are again starting to ask if theyll ever see the hot Audi A3 on this side of the pond. (Photo: Volkswagen AG)

surrounding Audis new A3 in terms of performance. Claims of an S3 and an RS3 have been voiced, but as far as all in the know are concerned, such supermodels are years away from production.

Rather than wait for one of these designated hitters to arrive at bat, Audi has stepped up to the plate with a short term home

The A3 is astonishing in terms of grip and acceleration, thanks to its 250-hp V6 engine and all-wheel drive. (Photo: Volkswagen AG)

run that should get fans roaring. The temporary solution for the power hungry equips their A5 chassis hatchback with a narrow-angle 3.2 liter V6 engine and the technologically advanced DSG gearbox.

Determined not to fall too far behind against the ripping Alfa Romeo 147 GTA - a brand that is reportedly destined for North America somewhere near the end of this decade - Ford Focus RS and other less prestigious VAG products, the V6 powered A3 creates 250 horsepower. Combined with all-wheel drive, the

The A3 V6 is subtle, preferring sophistication over sensation, with its only distinguishing feature being a set of RS4-style 17 inch alloy wheels and dual-piston calipers. (Photo: Volkswagen AG)

car astonishes in terms of grip and acceleration. No slip, no fuss - its off to 60 mph in just over 6 seconds, while it tops off at a very respectable speed limited 155 mph. Meanwhile, if driven conservatively, this V6 A3 will yield 24 mpg combined city/highway, which isnt too bad considering size and power.

Two clutch plates, six gears and the ability to pre-select gears - sounding like something that might come out of a dream - is easily applied to the A3 V6. With paddles behind the steering wheel, or by using the shift lever, a driver can select gears in accordance to what lies ahead. Since two clutch plates are used, the time taken to switch

If youd really like to see the A3 in the U.S., phone up your local dealer and put a bug in his ear and let him know there is a demand. (Photo: Volkswagen AG)

gears is dramatically reduced, making this one of the quickest and smoothest robotized transmissions on the market. If you prefer a third pedal and a traditional manual gearbox, Audi will also offer a six-speed manual transmission as well.

Where the A3 V6 differs from its competition is in terms of its attitude. Where the Focus WRC DNA is blatantly obvious with its rolled fenders, mesh grille and mean appearance, the A3 is far more subtle, preferring sophistication over sensation. In fact the only visible differences between this upscale model and other A3s is the fact that the V6 model is equipped with RS4-style 17 inch alloy wheels and dual-piston calipers.

The A3 V6 will go on sale in Europe in late 2003. If you want to see it in the U.S., contact your dealer and put in a request. Youd be the envy of every Golf GTI driver in the country.

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