CONCEPT CAR: Audi's ambitious plan
Will Audi really build this A3 saloon?
Most likely, and that will make Audi the first auto brand to offer a saloon in the premium compact car segment complementing the three- and five-door hatchbacks and cabriolet bodies. The BMW 1-series, Lexus CT and Mercedes-Benz A/B-class have yet to go four-door.
The booted A3 will bring the total number of Audi saloons to four, the other three being the A4, A6 and A8. The concept you see here is a very close indicator of what the A3 saloon would look like in less than a year.
The interior looks modern and simple ...
Uh-huh. It would really be nice for Audi to make simple interior designs as the one you see here. For years, the Ingolstadt boys have always built concept cars with minimalist cabins, but never made them the way they looked like.
But that could change because we're talking about a cost-effective car aimed at emerging markets like those in Asia (particularly China) and Russia. In addition, modern streamlined interior electronics and iPhone compatibility should make way for simple interiors.
The show car had a 400hp-plus motor, right?
Yes. The A3 concept was also meant to showcase a storming RS3 range-topper. The 406hp 2.5-litre inline-five petrol-turbo and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox isn't an out-of-reach possibility.
This A3 concept truly shows the potential of Audi in world markets. And it won't stop here; a Q3 SUV variation is also in the works, with a likely debut at next month's Shanghai auto show.
In contrast, Audi's performance in Thailand is on the appalling side, with low annual sales and a very limited product line-up.
Let's hope that will change because we hear that Audi (and Volkswagen) should be making an announcement in Thailand about a renewed presence very soon this year. They have already made new forays in Malaysia and Indonesia recently.
The interior stresses on simplicity.
Credit: Bangkok Post (www.bangkokpost.com)
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