The family hatchback market will gain a new competitor next month with the arrival of the five-door Audi A3. The Sportback model shares its platform with the latest VW Golf but is designed to appeal to buyers looking for a more upmarket brand.
Sportback has almost identical looks to the three-door but is the first compact Audi to boast the company's eye-catching, one-piece front grille. More rear passenger space and extra luggage capacity are also part of the deal.
Under the bonnet is the VAG 2.0 TDI with 140PS that can be allied to either a five manual or six-speed tiptronic transmission. The petrol alternatives are an entry-level 1.6 FSI, a 250PS 3.2-litre V6 and completely new 2.0 FSI producing 200PS.
Audi is building in key features to try and tempt buyers away from the cheaper Golf, with wider opening rear doors and a cabin that offers more head and knee room than the three-door A3. This is mainly due to the additional 68mm of body length.
Squeezing so much versatility into this new model has been achieved by fitting a transversely mounted engine that drives the front wheels - minimising engine and transmission intrusion in to the cabin.
The luggage capacity is also up 20 litres compared to the three-door A3, giving a total of 1,120 litres with the folding rear seat lowered. There is also an underfloor spare wheel, often missing in compact hatchbacks.
Audi hope the Sportback's similarities with the A3 will be a key asset - giving the car the added cache of driver appeal. Apart from the tiptronic gearbox option, there's also the chance to experience the semi-automatic DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) system.
In future months, there are plans to bring in new versions with quattro four-wheel drive too.
Trim levels start with standard and rise to SE and Sport trim. Optional extras include a combined DVD satellite navigation system and MP3 music player, or a two-part 'open sky' sunroof from 2005 onwards.
Prices and full specification have yet to be announced but will target rivals from BMW, Mercedes and Lexus.
What It Has To Beat...
Mercedes C200 CDI Sports Coupe
The right badge, the right image but not always the right price. Baby Merc is due for an update and can't compete with the Audi's sheer driveability.
BMW Compact 320d The 'must have' motor in every aspiring executives handbook. Well built, fun to drive and strong image. Can be expensive.
Alfa Romeo 147 JTD
All the thrills of excitement of driving a classy Italian thoroughbred. It's just a shame build quality and re-sale values are woeful.
Vauxhall Signum 2.0 DTi
The wild card...You don't see many on the motorway but the Signum has a fantastic interior, large hatchback looks and a good engine. So why aren't people buying them?
