Audi is unveiling a spectacular study in the compact class, in the guise of the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro. Based on the Audi A3, it sets new standards in terms of compact performance and efficiency. Its potent presence is a visible expression of the pioneering technology that propels this showcar: thanks to its extremely high-torque two-litre TDI engine, this sports car sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.6 seconds. The top speed is 240 km/h.

Self-assured power pack

Its appearance expresses beyond all doubt what lies beneath its skin: the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro is a trendsetting bundle of energy. The stunning looks of this three-door model underscore its performance. Its special paint finish, with Ibis White roof and hood combined with Brilliant Red sides, adds to its air of confidence. The large white "8" on each door is a reference to the year 2008.

Pure power

The designers gave this study vehicle a stunning, dynamic look that encompasses every tiny detail. The large DTM-look rear wing adds a visual reference to the world of motor racing and dominates the entire exterior of the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro. The struts of the exterior mirror housings are as if shaped by the wind. The bolted-on wheel arch extensions create a lasting impression. The striking sports car look is further underscored by a wider single-frame grille than on the production Audi A3, with struts in high-gloss black. The front bumper is adorned by large, angular air inlets.

Motor racing design, and comfortable too

The interior of the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro systematically adheres to the sporty styling of its exterior. All elements inside the car strikingly emphasise the spirit and sporty potential of the study. With its visual references to motor racing and jet design, the cockpit has a number of striking highlights. Combined with the anatomically shaped seats and the redesigned door panels and floor mats, it creates a sporty, comfortable overall impression.

Echoes of the Audi R8

Illuminated sill strips with the logo "TDI Power" greet the driver. Just like in a real racing car, they are greeted by an ergonomically shaped bucket seat – as is the front passenger. Special foaming also transforms the rear seats into spacious, comfortable individual seats. The classically open selector gate in aluminium accentuates the dynamic aura of the sports car's interior.

The elegant, flat-bottomed steering wheel gives the driver precise control over where the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro goes. The scales of the instruments stand out in gleaming white. The air vents with their multi-position outlets have been given a jet design. Their dynamic look is complemented by classically sporty rocker switches on the centre console. The struts beneath the console are trimmed in leather. The monitor for navigation and entertainment and its control panel have been adopted from the Audi R8 supercar. To save weight, the door handles are hollowed out.

Maximum dynamism and efficiency

Maximum efficiency – the entire concept of the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro follows this principle. Its two-litre TDI delivers the pulling power of a sports car. This power unit yet again demonstrates the high potential of TDI technology at Audi. The showcar is powered by an ample 165 kW (224 bhp) and 450 Nm of torque. It zips from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.6 seconds. The top speed of this four-valve model is 240 km/h. And the study's ultra-efficient four-cylinder engine already meets the limit values of the Euro 5 standard that is to take effect in September 2010.

Power for driving with poise

The engine's maximum torque of 450 Nm starts right down at 1,750 rpm, in other words at rock-bottom revs – and makes the TDI a genuine built-for-fun driving machine. The sports engine's power is acoustically underpinned by the newly developed exhaust system. With its variable resonance chambers on both tailpipes, it delivers a full-bodied, voluminous sound. The engine's power is translated into locomotion by a compact, transversely installed six-speed gearbox with short shift travel. Its open selector gate is in aluminium. In combination with quattro four-wheel drive, it relays the engine's power ultra-efficiently to the 20-inch wheels.

The sports suspension of the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro is easily up to the task of handling such power. Six-piston brake calipers and ceramic brake discs at the front and Audi magnetic ride technology for the dampers enable the driver to respond with lightning speed to every driving situation. With the driving dynamics system Audi drive select, they can adjust the throttle response and exhaust sound characteristics, the steering's power assistance, the ESP control and the damper characteristics as desired.

source: Audi