Audi A3 1.6 TDI Cuts CO2 Emissions to 99g/km

Audi has launched a new version of its A3 1.6 TDI, delivering CO2 emissions of just 99 grams per kilometre. The three-door and Sportback models both achieve this figure, placing them below the 100g/km threshold that exempts them from road tax in several European markets from early 2010.

The 1.6-litre four-cylinder diesel produces 105hp and 250Nm of torque, available from 1,500 to 2,500rpm. Audi claims the three-door A3 accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 11.4 seconds, with the slightly heavier Sportback taking 11.7 seconds. Both reach a top speed of 190km/h. Official fuel consumption is rated at 3.8 litres per 100km, or just under 62mpg on the combined cycle.

Efficiency measures and technology

Audi credits the low emissions and fuel consumption to a combination of its modular efficiency platform technologies. The A3 1.6 TDI comes with a start-stop system that shuts down the engine at idle and restarts it when the clutch is engaged. An energy recovery system manages the alternator to recapture energy during braking and coasting, storing it in the battery for later use.

A five-speed manual gearbox is standard, with a final drive ratio lengthened by seven percent to reduce engine revs at cruising speeds. A gear-change indicator in the instrument cluster encourages drivers to shift at the most economical points, supporting Audi’s claim that driving style can account for up to 30 percent of fuel consumption. The A3’s body sits slightly lower than standard, and aerodynamic tweaks to the body and underbody, along with low rolling-resistance tyres, further reduce drag and consumption.