2019 Audi A3 Set to Improve on Tech With Mild Hybrid System

Sebastien Bell
by Sebastien Bell

The next-generation Audi A3 is set to debut late next year and it’s expected to push the little premium car even farther upmarket.

With a 48-volt electric system and a bit more room inside, the fourth-gen A3 will be a formidable little car.

When it debuts, it will be as a hatchback, but sedan and coupe body styles are expected to follow, reports Auto Express. All of that will be built on the VW Group’s MQB platform.

“Evolutionary” is the word of the day for the next A3 as it won’t be a wild departure from the current generation car. The looks and the engine offerings will all be recognizable, albeit improved according to Audi.

SEE ALSO: Audi A3 4-Door Coupe Could Do Battle With Mercedes CLA: Report

Weight will likely diminish, but not by much. That’s because the increase in interior space requires the car to expand outside, making weight savings like those made on the A4 unlikely.

The increased space and Audi’s determination improve luxury, though, it does mean that Virtual Cockpit, wireless phone charging, Wi-Fi hotspot and even autonomous tech could all come – although the first three are much more likely.

Finally, the MQB platform means that all sorts of engine options are available to Audi engineers, including a super economical e-Tron option. A 48-volt “mild hybrid” system, like the one in the SQ7, is also in the cards.

All details are expected to be revealed late next year before hitting European showrooms in early 2019.

A version of this story originally appeared on Fourtitude

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Sebastien Bell
Sebastien Bell

Sebastien is a roving reporter who covers Euros, domestics, and all things enthusiast. He has been writing about the automotive industry for four years and obsessed with it his whole life. He studied English at the Wilfrid Laurier University. Sebastien also edits for AutoGuide's sister sites VW Vortex, Fourtitude, Swedespeed, GM Inside News, All Ford Mustangs, and more.

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