The next-generation 2014 Audi A3 was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year. According to initial reports, the U.S. market was to only receive the 4-door sedan. Now, Audi has confirmed that its five-door Sportback hatch will make it to our shores as well.
Given North America's track record, Audi is smart to focus its offerings on the compact four-door sedan, a vehicle that is slated to compete against hte Mercedes-Benz CLA and Acura ILX. The Audi A3 sedan is expected to offer the dependable 220-hp 2.0 liter turbo four-cylinder engine, a 140-hp 2.0 liter TDI diesel engine, a 300-hp S3 Quattro, and finally a range-topping 400-hp RS3 Quattro rocket set to take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG.
Depending on the product plans that brew in competing automakers, Audi may or may not decide to add in an A3 cabriolet as well. As rumors regarding a Mercedes-Benz A-class convertible grows, expect Audi to unveil a simple and lightweight fabric top A3.
Although its difficult to pinpoint the exact powerplant and layout options the U.S. market should receive, expect the three-door hatch, the RS3, and the cabriolet to be excluded from the North American market as demand may be too small for the niche vehicles. It's a shame -- the A3 looks like a winner!
[Source: CarandDriver]
