Audi Canada launches S3, A3 e-tron concept and S8 at Canadian International Autoshow

• Product offensive continues with new additions S3 and S8
• A3 e-tron showcases Audi plug-in hybrid technology
• New Audi Q3 is also being shown

AJAX, ON, Feb. 13, 2014 /CNW/ - For 2014 the Audi lineup will grow with a number of new additions to the portfolio. Few models will have more presence than the new 2015 S3, S8 and Audi Q3 which will make their Canadian debut today at the CIAS.

S3

The Audi S3 impresses with ultra-lightweight excellence, a strong and very efficient drivetrain, and a great many high-end infotainment and driver assistance systems. Shortly after the A3 Sedan reaches dealerships, Audi will launch its top-of-the-line version (available late August): the Audi S3 Sedan. Its 2.0 TFSI will produce 290 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 4.9 seconds with the six-speed S tronic . Speed is electronically capped at 250 km/h.  An electronically controlled, hydraulic multi-plate clutch constitutes the heart of the quattro drivetrain in the S3 Sedan. The suspension lowers the body by 15 millimeters. Large brakes are mounted behind the 18-inch wheels. 19-inch wheels are available in conjunction with Audi magnetic ride. Progressive steering is standard for the S3 Sedan.

The S3 will be available with a starting price of $44,000.

A3 e-tron

As the first plug-in hybrid car from Audi, the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron enables up to 50 kilometers of all-electric driving with top sporty performance – and with zero local emissions. The 204 hp five-door car will be available to purchase from early 2015.

The Audi A3 Sportback e-tron combines sporty power with impressive efficiency and high driving enjoyment as well as unlimited everyday utility. Its drive system combines a 150 hp 1.4 TFSI engine and a 75 kW electric motor. System power is 204 hp, and maximum torque is 258 lb-ft. The Audi A3 Sportback e-tron accelerates to a speed of 100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds, and it has a top speed of 222 km/h. Its average fuel consumption is just 1.5 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers, which equates to CO2 emissions of 35 g/km on the European cycle. It offers a 50 kilometers  driving range in electric mode; when combined with the additional 850 kilometers of range supplied by the gasoline engine, its total driving range is an impressive 900 kilometers. The battery of the A3 Sportback e-tron has an energy capacity of 8.8 kWh and can be charged in less than 2.5 hours using a 240 V electrical outlet. Thanks to systematic lightweight design, the five-door car has an unladen weight of less than 1,580 kilograms, including all electrical components, and it offers space for five occupants and plenty of luggage. It comes complete with all the brand's strengths: elegant design, a sporty suspension, first-class ergonomics, top-notch build quality and an extensive selection of high-end assistance and infotainment systems.

Audi S8

With 520 hp – the S8 is Audi's big sports sedan. Its 4.0 TFSI paired with quattro all-wheel drive accelerates the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, yet consumes on average just 11.3 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers(Combined city/hwy). The Cylinder On Demand technology that greatly improves the efficiency of the sonorous, twin-turbo V8 under part load is largely responsible for this top value. In four-cylinder mode, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) uses precise antiphase noise to eliminate intrusive noise in the interior, while active engine mounts dampen vibrations. The A8 4.0 TFSI Quattro and the A8 L W12 quattro also have the ANC system on board. The Audi S8 is the only member of the A8 family whose exhaust system ends in two elliptical dual tailpipes. Dynamic steering, the quattro powertrain with sport differential and the adaptive air suspension sport with an S-specific setup are standard. The wheels are 21 inches in diameter, and the brake calipers on the front axle bear S8 emblems. The Audi S8 will be available at dealers in June.

About Audi Canada

In 1971, Audi was first introduced to the Canadian market. Today, a network of 43 Audi retailers sells and services a range of premium vehicles nationwide. Headquartered in Ajax, Ontario, Audi Canada markets a line of luxury cars built in plants in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm, Germany, as well as Slovakia, Belgium and Hungary. The parent company, AUDI AG, resides in Ingolstadt, Germany. Additional information on all Audi models and history can be found at www.audi.ca    

SOURCE: Audi Canada Inc.

Communications: Cort Nielsen, [email protected], Ph: +905.428.5820