Audi A3 2.0 TDI Confirmed for U.S. Sale
Hard at work racking up high mpg numbers on Audi’s epic TDI drive across the country, our own Chris Paukert has managed to sniff out some juicy details regarding a new derv-burner that’s headed State-side.
Audi officials have confirmed that the A3 2.0 TDI, in front-drive configuration only, will be headed to the U.S. market as soon as next fall for the 2010 model year. The A3 diesel will run the same basic engine as can be found in the current Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which manages to get away with not using urea injection technology because of lower NOx emissions.
We’ve also been hipped that Audi may be bringing the A4 TDI to our market, though that deal hasn’t yet received final approval. Both the 3.0-liter and 2.0-liter diesel engines could be in play for this application, though the higher loads on the smaller powerplant could necessitate urea to clean up the NOx. Having spent some time with a European specification A4 3.0 TDI, we can safely say that we’d be in favor of having that sedan in the States – A3 diesel sure sounds like a winner in today’s car buying climate as well.
Comments
Reilly Brennan
Put this in A4 sedan and avant and I'm there.
Anonymous
I thought Audi said no to the B8 Avant in the US, or was it just no B8 S4 Avant???
TDIJeff
Woo Hoo!
Ducati Minor
Damn. Figures Audi would provide a mixed-blessing for gearheads. I think the point of embracing Audi diesel tech is to have it to its fullest--with Quattro. Most Audi buyer opt out of the pricey Quattro package, but I still think the move is limiting.
87ninefiveone
What Audi buyers are you talking to? I'd say the vast majority of Audi's out there have AWD. When I lived in Michigan that was the whole reason people bought them, but even here in North Carolina the vast majority are equipped with Quattro.
Maybe your just referring to the A3? Prior to this year the only way to get it with Quattro was to opt for the 3.2L S-Line model which is why most A3's are front drive.
Michigan Volkswagen Enthusiast (www.michiganvw.org/forum)
Justin
Most Audi buyers have Quattro. In fact, I've never even seen an Audi that didn't have the Quattro package. It's the reason most people decide on the Audi brand in the first place
Ducati Minor
Look at the sales data for Audi A3, A4, and TT sales throughout this decade and you'll figure it out. Most people opt out of AWD because they don't need it and don't want to spend several grand over for it. The A3, especially, since the Quattro option is currently only on the V-6.
Anonymous
Sales data reflects inventory available. Quattro is more fun and safer. It might not work with Kia buyers but those who want an Audi already have more money than a Kia buyer so the $ premium for quatto isn't that big a deal. My wife got stuck with a FWD TT because that's all they offered in automatic. The majority of A3's sold are FWD because that's what Audi offered more of. Remember do not put your faith in what statistics say until you have carefully considered what they do not say because 98% of all statistics are made up. UK "sales data" would be better since they have multiple engine and drivetrain options available in every model unlike what we are given as options in the US.
Anonymous
Sales data reflects just that -- vehicles sold.
Inventory can be expressed in two ways: the raw number of vehicles held by the dealers, or in terms of days of supply, based on the previous month's daily selling rate.
The percentage of customers who buy a particular option or package is known as the take rate.
I'm not intimately familiar with how Audi structures their lineup, but regardless of whether Quattro is treated as an option, or separate Quattro models, the data is out there somewhere.
I've seen plenty of FWD Audis, but I'm not going to presume that my small sample, limited to my region is representative of a measure of Quattro adoption as a whole.
Mena
They bring the diesel but not with AWD. LOL! The automakers seem REALLY, REALLY hesitant to bring over diesel to the US. So hesitant that they are making it difficult for it to succeed.
HondaDriver
Hi,
Finally!!!!
I will be first one to purchase one. What sense does it make to bring the diesel V10 and V12's?? Dont need a quattro either - just need a quality, FUN to drive vehicle with the top MPG's. Audi A3 has it all!!!
Anonymous
I'm on my sixth Quattro.
I would consider a diesel A4 Quattro Avant.
I live in Michigan and love the AWD.
Anonymous
I doubt I'd take it without the Quattro. I hope they offer it with the Quattro.
Anonymous
FWIW, I own an S4, and my wife has been looking at the potential of an A3.
WIthout quattro - it's a no-sale. There are other AWD options in this space.
Why does Audi even sell 2WD anyway? They should stick to what they know best. Frontrac or whatever they call it is useless.
Anonymous
Any idea what the A3 price range will be?
lucas
Woohoo! I'll start savin' some money now! I've always liked the A3 -- Just needed something to push me over the edge -- hopefully they won't over inflate the price... Any ideas on the MPG numbers? I suspect high 30s to 40s.
Fred
I'd love a diesel if the mpg vs cost of fuel vs cost of engine works out. That is I need to see a pay off in two years or less. Otherwise I love my A3 with it's 2.0T motor just fine.
billeevee
99.9% awd owners need to use their awd 00.1% of the time -even in Duluth and Winnipeg. When the snowstorms demand the use of all wheel,we are advised to stay home and not need to attend school or work until very soon,when your snow removal crews clear the road for all the 2 wheel drives.
wtA3
My son in MA has a Quattro TT he loves it. I have a fronttrac A3 in FL, I love it. My wife has an AWD Jaguar X-Type in FL, She loves it, I like it when it rains, but I would not opt for reduced fuel economy for AWL in Florida. Audi should offer choice.
Anonymous
I've been waiting for years to have an A3 TDI in quattro in Canada. Makes no sense to not offer the quattro option.
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