2016 Audi A3 e-tron REVIEW: Putting A Premium Spin On The PHEV - The Motor Report

Audi touts its new plug-in hybrid A3 e-tron as a vehicle that will change the world, not change the way you drive. Exactly the same as any other A3 to drive, the only thing an A3 e-tron needs is a wall to plug into - and even then, that’s optional. With this car, which is a very impressive drive, Audi has taken a step in the right direction towards greener mobility. Engine/trans: 110kW/250Nm 1. 4 TFSI + 75kW/330Nm electric motor (150kw/350Nm combined output) | 6spd auto. OVERVIEW Let’s make a wager: for the sum of your choosing I’ll bet that if I threw you the keys to Audi’s new A3 e-tron, you wouldn’t pick it from your normal garden-variety A3 sportback. Okay, there’s a few subtle hints - the fine-chrome horizontal slatted grille, the unique rear bumper garnish, 15-spoke alloy wheels, and a sprinkling of ‘e-tron’ badgework - but that’s it. Open the door to this A3, and the seats, steering wheel,... It’s not until you scrutinise the instrument cluster that you’ll see a power meter and two fuel gauges (one battery, one petrol) to tip you off. Unlike, say, a Prius with its ‘space age’ dash and oddball gearshift, the A3 e-tron is as 'normal' as anything else in the Audi range, and as simple to operate. You’ll have to first spend more in the showroom than you would for even the fire-breathing Audi S3 Sportback. Source: www.themotorreport.com.au