Audi to debut next-generation A3 in Geneva
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Audi AG will debut its next-generation A3 next month at the Geneva auto show. The redesigned car will arrive in the United States in 2014 as a sedan only, replacing the current-generation hatchback, which will be phased out.
The A3 sedan is expected to sell better than the hatchback in the United States and help lure buyers to the brand who want a four-door smaller than the A4.
In Europe, the A3 will be offered in four variants: a three-door, five-door, sedan and convertible.
Audi will show the sportback version of the redesigned A3 at the Geneva show, but a new hatchback isn't scheduled for the United States.
The next-generation A3 will be lighter than the previous-generation car and the first to offer Audi's new infotainment system, which includes plug-in technology and a control panel with handwriting recognition to support the direct entry of letters and numbers on the touch pad.
The A3 will be the first of about 40 vehicles to use VW Group's MQB modular platform, which also underpins the VW Golf. The car's introduction is important for Audi, which seeks to maintain its lead in Europe's premium entry-level segment.
Mercedes-Benz also will debut a redesigned A class at the Geneva show and BMW's redesigned 1 series hits the market later this year.
