By Kurt Ernst

Promising a “new level of Craftsmanship in the A segment,” Audi has revealed its latest sedan offerings ahead of the New York Auto Show. Serving up understated (but familiar) good looks and a variety of powertrains, the new A3 models will be available in a variety of powertrains, including the long-awaited S3 variant. Even the A3 Sportback returns, but it sounds like Audi will only offer its five-door wagon as a plug-in hybrid in the U.S. market.

The 2015 Audi A3 will come with a choice of three engines, not including the high-performance S3 variant. Base models get a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder, rated at 170 horsepower, but buyers can also opt for a 2.0-liter turbo four that should produce in the neighborhood of 210 horsepower (final figures are still pending). If you prefer diesels, the A3 is available with Audi’s 2.0-liter TDI turbodiesel, which makes 150 horsepower and copious amounts of torque. The S3 gets its own, stronger 2.0-liter turbo four, which (sadly) has not yet been rated for output yet.

2015 Audi S3 – image: Audi

2015 Audi S3 – image: Audi

2015 Audi S3 – image: Audi

All engines come mated to Audi’s six-speed S tronic gearbox, which means that row-it-yourself shifting won’t be available when the models are released. Audi’s Drive Select will be available on A3 models, too, allowing the driver to fine tune shift points, throttle settings and steering response to road conditions. Front-wheel drive will be standard, but it sounds as if A3 models will be available with quattro AWD, too. As always with Audi’s S models, the S3 will come only with quattro AWD.

2015 Audi A3 – image: Audi

2015 Audi A3 – image: Audi

2015 Audi A3 – image: Audi

2015 Audi A3 – image: Audi

Audi’s interiors are among the best in the business, and it doesn’t look like th A3 or S3 will disappoint here, either. The cabin is highlighted by a unique wraparound dash, and Audi will give buyers the option to add things like LED ambient lighting, a Bang & Olufsen Audio System and the upgraded Audi connect infotainment system. Safety is a big …read more
Source: FULL ARTICLE at Automotive Addicts