Bristling with technological firsts for the company including direct fuel injection (FSI), a race-bred Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), turbo-diesel injection (TDI), a refined Macpherson-strut front suspension and a new four-link independent rear suspension, the new A3 is also brings key new technologies into the A-segment for the first time.

Electromechanical steering, active head restraints and the first 6-speed tiptronic transmission in the A-segment all combine to position the new Audi A3 as the class leader and a clear benchmark in the compact, premium market.

Following intense negotiations with AUDI AG at the time of launch, Audi Australia has secured pricing for the A3 which clearly demonstrates the brand’s commitment to increased sales of this key model, according to Audi Australia’s managing director, Graham Hardy.

“The new A3 range is being introduced with significant value over the range it replaces, however we have managed to do this at lower overall prices,” Mr Hardy said.

“While we found ourselves in the unusual position of having a vehicle ready for launch without final pricing to announce, we felt that the resulting price benefits would positively affect customers for the whole lifecycle of the vehicle, and were therefore well worth the slight delay in obtaining them.

“Audi Australia is determined that this key volume model will be a sales success in this market. Despite some short-term uncertainty regarding A3 prices, we firmly believe that we have now been able to deliver a meaningful result for customers that will have long-term benefits for the 3-door Audi A3 and subsequent derivatives as they are introduced,” Mr Hardy concluded.

Spearheading the range’s introduction is Audi’s first TDI or turbo-diesel passenger car in Australia. The A3 2.0 TDI also features Audi’s seamless and ultra-sporty new DSG Direct Shift Gearbox. At the time of launch a 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre FSI (direct fuel injection) model is also be available. The range-topping A3 3.2-litre V6, also with DSG and quattro, arrives in Australia in August.

At first glance, the new A3 creates a dynamic visual impression. The body is wider, longer and lower than its predecessor, conveying a sporty presence on the road. Passengers will therefore clearly benefit from increased legroom, shoulder width and luggage space in this new model.

A high level of standard specification and strong performance, combined with dynamic design, ensure that the new Audi A3 will attract the interest of premium customers and secure the brand’s position as the most sporty luxury brand.

Two equipment lines are offered with the new A3, known as Ambition and Attraction.

The new A3 has one of the highest levels of safety equipment in its class and naturally 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.

The company expects to sell around 600 units in the six months from June to December this year, with around 1000 units in 2005.