The 2021 Audi A3 Sportback 45 TFSI e is a plug-in hybrid with 242 HP, a 6.8-seconds 0-62mph time, and a 39-mile electric-only range.
Earlier this year, Audi released its first plug-in hybrid – the A3 40 TFSI e. The hatchback has a 1.4-liter gas engine and 80 kW electric motor producing 201 HP in total. To complement the low-spec PHEV version of the A3, Audi has launched a beefy, upgraded Sportback edition. The A3 Sportback 45 TFSI e gains more powerful electric motors and higher-spec all-round.
The 2021 Audi A3 Sportback 45 TFSI s features the same 1.4-liter TFSI engine. However, thanks to the more potent electric motors, the 45 TFSI e produces 242 HP and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. Overall, that’s 40 HP and 50 Nm more than the 40 TFSI.
As a result, the 45 TFSI e reached 62 mph in 6.8 seconds, 0.8-seconds slower than the 40 TFSI. The top speed in hybrid mode is 145 mph, but the hatchback can reach “only” 87 mph on battery power.
With a fully-charged 13-kWh battery, the plug-in A3 has a range of 39 miles. The owner can charge it from any pin at a max power of 2.9 kW. At that speed, it takes 5 hours to juice up fully.
Meanwhile, a six-speed automatic transmission is responsible for delivering power to the front wheels. Four available drive modes can increase or restrict battery usage to handle it efficiently.
Various cosmetic changes in the new 45 TFSI e include a gloss black painted front grille, LED daytime running lamps shaped like a matrix, a new 17-inch wheelbase, and larger brake calipers to match the extra power. Tinted rear windows and sporty seats give the car a more aggressive look with other goodies including, Audi drive select, two-zone automatic air conditioning, and the convenience key.
The A3 Sportback 45 TSFI e starts at €40,395 for the base version. Nonetheless, countries that offer incentives for EVs, like Germany, reimburse the customers €6,750. The PHEV’s lesser twin, the A3 40 TFSI, starts at a lower €33,060.
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