New Audi A3 Diesel Eliminates Road Tax

The Audi A3 range has been expanded to include a highly efficient new model which is exempt from road tax.

The Audi A3 range has been expanded to include a highly efficient new model which is exempt from road tax. The 1.6-litre TDI returns a combined average of 74.3mpg with emissions of only 99g/km. This frugal hatchback therefore sits in road tax band A/£0.

These impressive figures are only obtainable with one specific A3 - the 1.6-litre TDI three-door manual in standard trim. This includes 15-inch 7-arm alloy wheels, air conditioning, remote central locking, electric front windows, and radio/CD player. Higher specified variants are available with the same engine but are significantly less efficient (65.7mpg).

This popular executive vehicle achieves its impressive fuel efficiency through numerous technical innovations. These include optimised underfloor aerodynamics, revised final drive ratio (gearing), advanced engine design, and low rolling resistance tyres. This A3 also utilises start/stop technology which cuts power when the vehicle is in neutral and restarts when the clutch is depressed.

These initiatives complement the Formula 1 style kinetic energy recuperation system which recycles some of the braking energy formerly dispersed as heat. This resource is stored in the battery and used to reduce engine workload when the vehicle accelerates.

The new Audi A3 1.6-litre TDI is available from £18.005 on-the-road.

By Stephen Turvil