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Audi RS3 and A3 e-tron due for launch in 2014
posted on Oct 25 2012 by Sam Jones
The Audi A3 range is set to be expanded earlier than anticipated with Audi to launch the new RS3 and A3 e-tron models in early 2014.
Audi has usually waited until a few months before the end of the A3s production cycle before deciding to release the RS3, which is a more intense version of the hatchback. Despite this the new RS3 will go on sale in spring 2014, just over a year after the S3 is set to be released.
The four-wheel drive RS3, like the previous model, will use a five-cylinder turbocharged engine. However, it is expected that the new lighter version will be more powerful than the old car and should exceed 335bhp.
Audi will also launch a plug-in hybrid e-tron version of the A3 early on in 2014. This will be probably be alike Audis concept car that was revealed at the 2011 Shanghai motor show which used a 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine and an electric motor to produce 296bhp. Some of this power will likely be lost by the time the e-tron reaches production but, due to its lithium batteries, should be able to run for roughly 30 miles using just electric power.
