Happiness in driving.
The new Audi A3 just made its debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show and isn’t expected to reach dealers until the fall of 2012. But, that didn’t stop ABT Sportsline from developing a new Audi A3 tuning program. Dubbed the ABT AS3, the new program is about “The happiness in driving, always and everywhere…” according to CEO, Hans-Jürgen Abt.
Much of the new ABT AS3 is still in development since the car was just introduced at the beginning of March. Both of the engine tuning upgrades are two of those still being worked on by ABT Sportsline engineers. The Audi A3 tuning program will focus on the 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline and diesel inline-fours available in the hatchback. The 2.0 TDI will see an increase from the standard 170 hp output to approximately 200 hp, while the 2.0 TFSI will go from 200 hp to approximately 250 hp. Both ABT AS3 variants will also be available with a sport rear muffler for a more aggressive sound.
The ABT AS3 will also wear upgraded body work to match its more potent engines. ABT Sportsline offers a new front spoiler and grille to give the car a more modern appearance. At the rear, the ABT AS3 will wear a new spoiler, skirt, and accommodate two dual exhaust tips. The Audi A3 tuning program will also include new side skirts to visually lower the car and add a touch of aerodynamic efficiency.
Part of the “Happiness in driving” that ABT Sportsline is looking to achieve comes from the upgraded chassis in the new Audi AS3 tuning program. The standard brakes on the front axle can be replaced with 345 mm discs and black calipers sporting the ABT logo. The suspension can be dialed in for precision with upgraded springs or customers can wait for ABT Sportsline to finish developing a height-adjustable suspension for even better dynamics. The finishing touch is the set of five-spoke DR light alloy wheels in either 18- or 19-inch diameters with corresponding sport tires.
The entire ABT AS3 upgrade program is not currently available as some Audi A3 tuning accessories have not been fully developed. Look for all of the upgrades and pricing to be made available towards the fall of 2012 as the new Audi A3 begins to hit dealer lots.
ABT AS3 Audi A3 Tuning Specifications
Gasoline Engine:
Engine: 2.0 TFSI, 1984 cc capacity
Performance tuning: ABT POWER
Performance: ca. 250 hp/184 kW (standard: 200 hp/147 kW)
Diesel Engine:
Engine: 2.0 TDI, 1968 cc capacity
Performance tuning: ABT POWER
Performance: ca. 200 hp/147 kW (standard: 170 hp/125 kW)
Wheels, Suspension, and Brakes:
Wheels: ABT DR Sport Wheels light alloy; five-spoke design in 18 or 19 inch diameter.
Suspension: Sport springs or height adjustable suspension
Brakes: 345 mm front discs with new black calipers with ABT logos
Exterior:
-Front spoiler
-Front grille
-Side skirts
-Rear spoiler
-Rear skirt
-Dual exhaust tips
[Source: ABT Sportsline]
Do you think the ABT AS3 will offer “Happiness in driving?” Leave a comment and let us know!
