Report: Audi working on an MPV version of the A3 to compete against Mercedes B-Class

While a recent report was out suggesting that Audi will be revealing an Audi A4 Vario a la BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo competitor, another report from AutoExpressUK states Audi is also developing a more practical version of its A3 compact.

It is reportedly an MPV version of the A3, after Audi’s R&D head honcho, Wolfgang Durheimer, spoke with the British outlet.

“I think there is definitely room for rational cars or family cars in the Audi line-up. But they have to be stylish, like any Audi.”

Audi’s original plan was to build a seven-seater version of the A4, but now the brand is considering a smaller five-seater MPV. This wouldn’t exactly threaten any sales from the supposed A4 Vario as the A4 Vario will most likely be an A4 with an extended boot, while the A3 will be more upright to take on competitors such as the Mercedes-Benz B-Class and the potential production version of the 2012 BMW Concept Active Tourer.

The A3 MPV will be based off of Volkswagen Group’s MQB compact architecture, which underpins the entire A3 lineup. A concept is projected to be due sometime in 2014.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: AutoExpressUK

Chris Chin

Chris Chin is the Editor-In-Chief of egmCarTech and is a regular contributor to Automobile Magazine.

admin has 4428 posts and counting.See all posts by admin