- Doors and Seats
5 doors, 5 seats
- Engine
1.4T/75kW Hybrid, 4 cyl.
- Engine Power
225kW (comb), 330Nm
- Fuel
Hybrid (95) 1.6L/100KM
- Manufacturer
FWD
- Transmission
Auto (DCT)
- Warranty
3 Yr, Unltd KMs
- Ancap Safety
5/5 star (2013)
She says, he says: Audi A3 e-Tron
- Hybrid comparison: Audi A3 e-Tron v BMW X5e v Lexus ES v Toyota Prius
- Road test: Audi A3 e-Tron
- More e-Tron models to come from Audi
He: Audi has entered the hybrid arena with the A3 e-Tron. It's a plug-in hybrid, which means it runs on the electric motor but has a small petrol engine on board to act as a generator to the bank of batteries, so it is a step ahead of traditional hybrids like the Toyota Prius. But it looks pretty much like a regular A3 Sportback, aside from a few key styling tweaks. What were your first impressions, Jess?
She: I found the A3 quite unassuming considering its unique proposition of running primarily on electric. From the outside, the car offered no indication of its nature and not until I started the car, did I experience the sensation of a silent start. As with other hybrids coming onto the market, this is becoming the norm, however I still found the lack of engine growl a tad eerie. Like you mentioned, design wise, it does not scream out that it's hybrid, rather maintaining the traditional shape and style of the A3 range which I preferred. Internally, the A3 delivered nice clean lines with modern finishings and plenty of room for both the drivers and passengers. Overall, my first impressions were positive. How about you Steve?
He: I suppose we have become used to 'alternative' cars, like hybrids, having an 'alternative' look so it does take you by surprise that this conventional looking A3 is actually a state-of-the-art plug-in hybrid. But, personally, I really like that. I'm not a huge fan of the look-at-me styling of some rival hybrids. The A3 e-Tron looks and feels like an understated luxury car. As for how it drives, I reckon the electric motor has more than enough performance to get along the road comfortably.
She: Yes I agree. The car never lacked for power, whether I was navigating through city traffic or cruising along motorways. The initial acceleration using electric power was smooth and quiet with a seamless transition to the petrol engine. The brakes were also smooth and consistent, even when set to regenerate and it had excellent fuel efficiency as expected. It is advertised at 1.6L per 100km, however I was consuming around 3.8km per 100km when the mode was switched to hybrid. The A3's steering was quite light and I would have preferred a touch more steering feedback especially at higher speeds. With the addition of the electric motor and batteries, the A3 e-tron is heavier than the normal A3. Did you find this affected the drive or balance at all?
He: It definitely feels a bit heavier and slightly slower to react than the rest of the A3 range but not enough to really dull the handling. It is a worthwhile trade-off to get the electric-only running. On a full charge it indicated around 35km of range. I live within 10km of the office so I had no trouble going to and from home on a single charge - so I never even turned the petrol engine on in my usual commute. But knowing that it is there is a big plus because I do often have to drive longer distances. However, it all comes at a cost, $62,490 plus on-roads, to be precise. It's over $19,000 more than the A3 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TDI models - that's a lot of fuel you have to save.
She: It is not only the fuel you are saving but also the environment and from that perspective it is a worthwhile investment especially when considering the overall A3 e-Tron package. The A3 features leather trimmings, a head-up display unit and easy Bluetooth connectivity. Included is also satellite navigation and a comprehensive instrument cluster on the dash, displaying information for the electric motor and hybrid driving modes. The single-frame grille sets the e-Tron apart from the normal A3 along with unique bumpers and a rear diffuser giving the car a very sharp appearance. Do you feel the extra $19,000 is a bit steep?
He: Don't get me wrong, I love Earth and the air we breath but that's a lot of money. If I was simply in the market for a prestige hatch I'd stick to the cheaper A3. However, if I had $60k to spend on a luxury car then I'd definitely have the A3 e-Tron on my short-list. I prefer its more conventional looks over the likes of the BMW i3 and the fact I could avoid the petrol station given my short commute is a big plus. What about you, Jess, does it win you over?
She: For those in the market for a hybrid, I think the Audi is a winner. If I had a spare $60k, I would definitely consider the A3 e-Tron. I love the appearance both inside and out and all the gear that comes with it. It is a luxurious car, with a high-tech hybrid engine that delivers a smooth and capable drive, delivering on all areas of consideration.
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2016 Audi A3 e-tron pricing and specifications
Price: From $62,490 plus on-road costs
Engine: 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol and electric motor
Power: 150kW
Torque: 350Nm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Fuel use: 1.6L/100km