Audi has finally has review the details on its all-new mid-size five-door liftback. Building on the curvaceous body work of the A5 coupe and cabrio, the Sportback adds an extra set of doors, along with a tailgate to blend a bit of functionality with its form.
European buyers will be able to pick up a Sportback starting in September with a choice of six engines split evenly between gas and diesel units, all of which come equipped with direct injection. Like the A4, the 2.0-liter TFSI four comes in 180 and 211 hp flavors, along with a choice of Audi's 3.2-liter V6. On the compression ignition side, 2.0-liter inline-four, 2.7-liter V6 and 3.0-liter V6 units will be available, with the 170 hp 2.0-liter TDI rated at 45.2 mpg (US) on the EU combined cycle. The four cylinder engines all get automatic start-stop systems and the top gasoline- and diesel-powered V6s get the requisite quattro all wheel drive. Three additional engines will drop into the lineup in 2010.
This five-door sport hatch segment is quickly getting crowded with the BMW 5-series Gran Turismo, the Acura ZDX, Honda Accord Crosstour and, of course, the upcoming A7 Sportback in 2010. Get all the details in the press release after the break.
When it goes on sale towards the end of 2012 or early 2013, the new 3 GT will join the existing body styles of the 3-Series, which include the four-door sedan, the two-door coupe, the five-door station wagon and the hardtop convertible, offering BMW a direct rival to the Audi A5 Sportback.
