First look: Audi evolves A3

THIS is the look of the new generation three-door version of the Audi A3, which will be revealed in the metal next month at the Geneva motor show, but does not go on sale here until the first half of 2004.

The five-door version, which has proved to be the big seller in Australia, will probably not be launched for another 12 months after that, putting its local on-sale date as far back as mid-2005.

Initial details revealed by the German manufacturer about the new three-door include confirmation of both four-cylinder and V6 engines, quattro all-wheel-drive and transmission choice including the new automatic-shift DSG sports gearbox.

Audi says it has designed the new Audi A3 to look more coupe-like with a steeper angle to the C-pillar and shallower windows. However it's easy to see the look is evolutionary.

Underneath the sheetmetal, the wheelbase has been lengthened by 65mm, it is 30mm wider and also sits 10mm lower than its predecessor, which had its world launch in 1996.

Inside, changes include a lower seating position, the signature circular aluminium-look ventilation outlets first seen on the TT, a high centre console and sports-car-style floor-mounted accelerator pedal.

Audi's also claiming a significant increase in interior room, including more rear knee room and width at shoulder level.

Engine choices in Europe will include a whole variety of turbo-diesel and direct injection petrol (FSI) engines, crowned by a 177kW 3.2-litre V6. For Australia, initial choice will probably be a 2.0-litre petrol FSI adapted to run on our poor quality petrol.

In Euro-spec that engine is rated at 110kW and 200Nm, well up on the current normally-aspirated 1.6 and 1.8 engine offerings.

Unfortunately, the stonking V6 quattro is yet to be confirmed.

Transmission choices offered include five and six-speed manuals, or a six-speed tiptronic. The new direct shift sports gearbox, DSG, will be offered with more powerful engines as well.

A3 will be offered with the front-wheel drive or its well-known quattro all-wheel drive system.

Underpinning the car will be an updated version of the current car's MacPherson strut front suspension, or a new four-link independent system at the rear. Wheel size choices are 16 or 17-inch alloys.

Brake discs have been increased in size, while an electro-mechanical power steering system is a new feature. The system is road-speed dependent.

The new A3 incorporates such safety features as the Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP), new front seats with crash-active head restraints and the SIDEGUARD head-level airbag system.

Standard comfort features include "Easy Entry" function for the front seats, powered front windows and central locking with radio-operated remote control. Redesigning the handbrake makes it possible to install two additional cup-holders in the centre console where they can also be reached by rear-seat occupants.