A3
The first model to debut the Volkswagen Group’s now ubiquitous MQB platform, the images by motor1.com shows the A3 sporting heavy layers of disguise, but with a familiar silhouette and in five-door Sportback guise, which is expected to be supplemented by a sedan at a later stage.
Despite the excessive camouflage, the example snapped provides a hint of lies underneath by featuring the same headlight that cuts into the front bumper as the A4, A6 and A8, taillights which seemingly mirrors those of the new A1, the latest Singleframe grille design and integrated, oval tipped exhaust outlets.
No images of the interior has yet been seen, but rumours is that it will closely resemble that of the A1 and new Q3 with the same levels of comfort and technology.
Given its MQB foundations, power for the A3 could come from the same assortment of three-and-four-cylinder TFSI engines as the Golf, as well a clutch of TDIs with a plug-in hybrid also likely. A fully-electric variant has also not been ruled out.
S3
Set to rival the forthcoming Ford Focus ST, Golf GTI and Mercedes-AMG A35, the prototype S3, in spite of obscuring its S-line exterior additions under the same black-and-white wrapping as its sibling, betrays its go-faster intensions by sporting quad exhaust outlets, what appears to be a hidden rear diffuser and the same bonnet as the S5.
While its interior is likely to be differentiated from the standard A3 by virtue of a number of S line specific touches, motivation is once again expected to come from a 2.0-litre TFSI that will likely be updated to produce more than the current model’s 228kW/400Nm.
At present, Audi is only expected to take the covers off of the new A3 next year with the S3 following in 2020, although expect more details and clearer images to emerge in the coming months.
