A Rechargeable Hybrid Audi to Confront Lying-down Gendarmes!

Audi launches a plug-in hybrid version of its new A3 allstreet with increased ground clearance and an all-terrain look.

Initially offered with diesel thermal and mild hybrid gasoline engines, the Audi A3 allstreet is now available as a plug-in hybrid. This Audi A3 allstreet is not really an off-road version like the allroad was in its day. It is more of a crossover than an SUV. One of its distinguishing features is the octagonal grille with its honeycomb structure, which is taller than that on the Audi A3 Sportback, reminiscent of the Q-series SUVs.

Protective plates appear under the front and rear bumpers. These are more design elements than true off-road equipment, although they will help prevent serious damage to the bodywork if you encounter a tree branch or a curb. Similarly, dark side skirts and plastic wheel arches protect particularly exposed body areas. The look is quite appealing and gives an impression of reassuring ruggedness. This is the intended effect, according to the brand’s exterior design chief, Stephan Fahr-Becker.

Better armed than the “urban” A3

The suspension of the Audi A3 allstreet is 15 mm higher than the standard suspension of the Audi A3 Sportback. Larger wheel diameters allow for a ground clearance increased by 30 mm. Initially offered with 17-inch wheels, ideal for rough terrain, it can optionally be fitted with 18- or 19-inch wheels if style is more important to you than crossing speed bumps. Thoughtfully, the driver’s seat is raised to enhance visibility. A small detail that demonstrates Audi’s commitment in this area, but one that was expected from the four-ring brand.

The Audi A3 allstreet plug-in hybrid features the new 1.5-liter TFSI evo2 turbocharged petrol engine with 110 kW (150 hp) and 250 Nm of torque, combined with an 85 kW electric motor with 330 Nm of torque. The total power output is 150 kW or 204 hp. The Audi A3 allstreet 40 TFSI e reaches a top speed of 225 km/h and can operate in pure electric mode at speeds of up to nearly 140 km/h.

The high-voltage battery, with a gross capacity of 25.7 kWh (19.7 kWh net), offers a range of 140 kilometers in WLTP cycle. It supports DC fast charging up to 50 kW and AC charging up to 11 kW.

Pricing-wise, while the Audi A3 allstreet 35 TFSI starts at 37,800 euros, the entry-level version of this plug-in hybrid allstreet costs 49,800 euros, and the Comfort AVUS trim is priced at 54,250 euros.

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