The brand with the four rings is celebrating the anniversary of the Audi A3. Audi presented the successful model for the first time 20 years ago at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt am Main.
Completely newly developed
The completely newly developed car was based on the Golf IV platform, but preceded the Golf, which followed in 1997. Initially, the A3 was only available as a three-door hatchback in three trim levels and with four different petrol and diesel engines. In September 1998, Audi introduced quattro permanent all-wheel drive to the compact segment for the first time in the A3.
Five-door variant
From March 1999, a five-door variant was added to the model range. In contrast to the second generation, the three- and five-door versions differed only slightly, as the only visually recognizable difference was the narrower C-pillar of the five-door, which created space for a third side window and made the vehicle appear more elongated with the same length.
Powerful engine
The in-line four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1.8 liters, turbocharger and five-valve technology produced 154 kW (210 hp) in the S3 - setting a milestone for the sporty first generation of the Auto S3 in spring 1999.
Second generation
In 2000, the A3 underwent its first facelift, but it was not until four years later that the first generation was completely overhauled. With the second generation of the A3 (2004), the electro-hydraulic dual-clutch gearbox, inspired by motor racing, entered mass production at Audi for the first time. It enabled lightning-fast gear changes without interrupting traction and therefore sporty driving.
Four million cars
In Germany alone, the combination of body shape, engine, transmission and drive system results in 54 variants of the premium compact. However, the Ingolstadt-based company is now a global player that has conquered the roads of more than 100 sales markets to date. Audi manufactures the Audi A3*, A3 Sportback*, A3 Sportback e-tron* and A3 Sportback g-tron* models at the Ingolstadt plant. In 2001, the Audi Group expanded parts of A3 production with a production facility in Győr. Today, the Audi A3 Sedan* and A3 Cabriolet* roll off the production line there. At the Foshan plant, Audi produces the A3 Sportback and the A3 Sedan for the Chinese market. Total production since the start 20 years ago is more than four million cars.
Further information on the Audi A3 can be found on the official Audi website.
