With a higher battery capacity, 50kW DC charging at fast-charging stations, and an electric range of up to 88 miles, the Audi A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e has received a comprehensive technology upgrade. Its intelligent drive management ensures outstanding efficiency, high recuperation performance, and emission-free local driving in everyday life.
After Audi presented extensive upgrades for the A3 and S3 in the spring, the A3 Sportback 40 TFSI e now follows with a more powerful and efficient plug-in hybrid powertrain than before.
The new turbocharged petrol engine and the electric motor with increased power density are at the heart of the drive system. The 1.5 TFSI evo2 replaces the previous 1.4 TFSI and boasts a wide range of high-tech features. In addition to optimizing combustion chamber cooling, the combination of the turbocharger with variable turbine geometry and the Miller cycle, as well as the early closing of the intake valves, ensures a higher compression ratio. The ratio is now 11.5:1, compared to 10:1 in the 1.4 TFSI. Thanks to this combustion process, the new unit operates with a high degree of efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Injection takes place at a pressure of up to 350 bar. By comparison, the 1.4 TFSI reached a maximum of 200 bar. Plasma-coated cylinder liners reduce internal friction in the new engine. Pistons with cast-in cooling channels optimize combustion.
The electric drive is provided by a permanently excited synchronous motor, which now delivers 85kW (115PS). As with its predecessor, it is integrated into the housing of the six-speed S tronic, which is now equipped with a more robust gearbox bearing to cope with the higher system output.
It transfers the torque from the two engines to the front axle. The dual-clutch transmission has an electric oil pump that ensures the change of gears and oil supply even when the TFSI is temporarily deactivated.
On sale in the UK in November, prices start from £39,150 (OTR)
