[Auto] Audi presents the Q3 45 TFSIe: its first compact SUV PHEV

[#Steeven.™]

The race to reduce emissions continues and Audi adds another plug-in hybrid to its range. This time it is not only its first compact SUV of these characteristics -the Audi Q3-, but also the first model of the brand with the 45 TFSIe engine.

Orders for this model will begin to be accepted in spring 2021. Until then, it is only available with gasoline engines between 150 hp and 230 hp, 48V micro-hybrids with a single power of 150 hp and diesel 150 and 190 hp. To which must be added the 400 hp gasoline RS version.

The new 45 TFSIe engine
This new Audi engine shares the technology that we have already seen for example in the A3 Sportback 40 TFSIe, the A8 60 TFSIe or the Q5 55 TFSIe. That is to say, a heat engine, which in this case is a four-cylinder 1.4 TFSI, with another permanent magnet synchronous electric motor and a battery with autonomy for 50 km.

Its combined power is 245 hp and its torque of 400 Nm, instead of the 'modest' 204 hp and 350 Nm that the 40 TFSIe has. According to Audi, thanks to this it is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km / h in 7.3 seconds and reaching 210 km / h. Top speed that reaches only with the gasoline engine, since the electric one pushes up to 140 km / h. Which you can do on your own up to that point, if grade and acceleration conditions allow.

The compact plug-in hybrid SUV
This extra power responds to the greater weight of the Q3 compared to the Audi A3 Sportback. If we compare them in terms of motorization and finish (for example the 35 TFSI), the SUV scores 175 km more than the compact five-door.

Audi has yet to reveal the pricing for the new Q3 45 TFSIe and Q3 Sportback 45 TFSIe. We will be aware of the brand's announcements, which will probably comment on it when the launch date approaches.