Audi To Reduce Complexity In A3 Line-Up

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Thu, 22 May 2008

Audi UK has announced plans to simplify its A3 range this summer in order to make showroom choice easier for consumers and dealers alike.

Due for introduction in August, the newly revised A3 range will feature four reworked or all-new, petrol and two diesel engines, while technical options will include park assist and chassis performance equipment such as magnetic ride shock absorber control.

"We have already seen magnetic ride on the R8 and TT but it is great to have this available on the A3, along with park assist, without having to wait for these to filter down to the range from more expensive models," commented Audi UK's A3 product manager Jo Elliott.

"At the moment we do not know what the take up of park assist or magnetic ride will be. We are in the process of dealer training and then it's down to them to get people into cars to try the systems out."

However, the German carmaker revealed that the altered line-up will have fewer trim levels to choose from and that buyers can expect small price hikes up the scale.

Elliott revealed Audi UK’s high expectations of the A3, with 28,000 A3s 9,000 3-door and 19,000 5-door Sportback models - expected to sell each year in the UK .

Prices for the A3 range start at £14,995 for the standard 1.6-litre models, rising to £27,720 for the 265bhp 2-litre S3 Sportback, which will be available as a 5-door option for the first time.