Official images of the 2012 Audi A3 have been leaked onto the ‘web ahead of the car’s Geneva Motor Show debut next month.
The three-door hatchback model revealed here is underpinned by Volkswagen AG’s MQB (Modular Transverse Matrix) platform, which will also form the foundation of the Mk 7 Golf. It will eventually be joined by a cabriolet, a five-door Sportback model and, for the first time in the A3’s history, a four-door saloon.
The leaked images reveal a more grown-up evolution of the current car’s styling with sharper lines, narrower LED-margined headlamps and a deeper front bumper. The brakelamps have also been tweaked to present a more flatter, more angular shape.
The interior, which was revealed some months ago at the Las Vegas Consumers Electronics Show, presents a distinctly A1-inspired air with its clean facia and pod-like air vents. The A3’s MMI system has also been extensively overhauled for the new car and will feature a touchwheel and touchpad interface with shortcut buttons and separate audio controls similar to those of the A6 and A8.
The MMI display comprises a folding screen that emerges from the facia and will reportedly deliver 3D graphics and will feature an upgradeable flash memory to keep up with incoming software developments.
Audi Phone Box (an improved phone connectivity system) and a head-up display system that will virtually project sat-nav directions onto routes and features in the driver’s line of sight will be offered as optional extras on the new A3.
The engine line-up has yet to be confirmed, but initial reports suggest that the petrol options could include a 1,2-litre unit developing 77 kW and a 2,0-litre with 155 kW. The diesels will reportedly comprise a 1,6-litre TDI with 77 kW and a 2,0-litre TDI delivering 132 kW.
More details will emerge closer to the car’s official unveiling at Geneva early next month.
