Next-generation Audi A3 will get sedan variant for the U.S.

Insiders at Audi have confirmed that the North American market will be getting a sedan version of the new Audi A3 in early 2011. The sedan model will sit alongside the hatchback, sportback and the convertible variants.

“We’ve taken a good look at what it will take to better establish the A3 in the US market in the future,” an Audi source told AutoCar. “The four-door layout is something North American car buyers continue to seek, especially from a premium brand such as Audi.”

Sources say that the A3 sedan will be very similar in size to the Volkswagen Jetta. Unlike the Jetta however, the A3 sedan will have a more coupe-like profile with a rounded and sloping roofline. The next-generation A3 won’t see any major radical styling changes since its current style has proven popular with consumers in the market for compact-luxury segment.

The base A3 model will feature a turbocharged 105-hp 1.2L TFSI engine which will get 15 percent better fuel-economy. The range will also consist of a 140-hp 1.4L, a 170-hp 1.8L and a 210-hp 2.0 TFSI. Topping the range off will be the 2.0 turbo S3 quattro model which will make an extra 15-hp for a total of 280-hp.

There will also be diesel option with an automatic start/stop system. The most fuel-efficient model will be good for 75 mpg (62 mpg U.S.)

The next Audi A3 will sit on a front-wheel-drive setup with all-wheel-drive available as an option.

– By: The Daily Auto Editor

Source: AutoCar