A new version of Audi's popular A3 hatch revealed not so long ago is going to give hybrid cars a good run being a perfect solution for those who prefer diesel cars with highish plateau of fuel economy. Following the example of Volkswagen, SEAT and Skoda, car manufacturers have decided to single out a lineup of economy cars and named it 'ultra'. As Audi has stated, its new A3 1.6 TDI ultra will run 100 km with just 3.2 liters of diesel. This makes it the most fuel-efficient car in Audi's line for now, yet we tend to think it won't take long for Germans to reveal next gas sippers.
Way more thrifty compared to the previous generation of A3s, which, in fact, has never been really economic nor as sporty as it probably should have been, the new A3 1.6 TDI ultra will provide potential buyers with two options: a three-door and a five-door Sportback form. Humble 2,656 pounds of weight were realized thanks to the use of lightweight materials, meanwhile low rolling resistance tires, 110 horses and 1.6-liter diesel engine secured the ability to reach 60 mph in 10 seconds. A 13.21-gallon fuel tank permits to run 932 miles without pausing for a fill up.
To say the truth, we were expecting to finally see a real penny pincher from Volkswagen Auto Group for a rather long time already and we could've guessed it's going to be real trendy, as contrasted with almost invisible VW Lupo. As announced, A3 1.6 TDI ultra will become available in Germany in this September, already, while Americans probably won't see it on the market in the year or so. Who knows, maybe in two-three years time this hatchback will be available at LocalMart. One way or another, Audi A3 1.6 TDI ultra reminds us that fuel economy race is just hybrids prerogative. Wisely produced, compact and economy diesels will make their voice heard in this fight, too.
