Back in September Audi gave us the A3 in Plugin Hybrid, the so-called 40 TFSI e which made use of a 1.4-litre, 4-cylinder engine and an electric motor fixed within the six-speed transmission. The electric motor on its own generated 107bhp and when combined with the petrol engine total system power is now elevated to 201bhp and 343 (259lb ft) of torque. But Audi’s marketing team instructed the engineering department to dial down the power because they were planning an additional, more powerful model derivative. They need to earn their Christmas bonus afterall. And here it is, the Audi A3 45 TFSI e S Line Competition Sportback. 

Maybe the Audi marketing team should have dialed down on the name, it’s rather too long in our opinion. Nevertheless, the A3 Sportback e S Line Competiton is a plugin hybrid that has had an ECU power and marketing upgrade. Anything with the term competition is sure to attract a deluded individual who believes that this Audi is a thoroughbred sports car. With a peak system power of 245PS and 400 Nm (295.0 lb-ft) of system torque, the newcomer will be available in the UK early in 2021.

The A3 Sportback e S Line Competition accelerates from rest to 62mph in 6.8 seconds and has a top speed of 144mph. In full-electric mode the A3 e S Line Competition can reach a top speed of 87mphand and has a pure electric range of 18 miles. Audi claims the hybrid drivetrain emits CO2 output of as little as 29 g/km. But Don’t believe nor rely on Audi’s emissions claims too much. (AHEM!… deiselgate…AHEM!)

As with any S Line Audi, trim and standard equipment will be generous. The highlights are 18-inch alloys, privacy glass, MMI Touch infotainment system and the Audi Virtual Cockpit etc, etc, etc. The A3 Sportback e TFSI Competition is expected to retail from £40k. Which is stupid money for a plugin hybrid. In our opinion, you’re better off buying a Tesla Model 3.