What is it? Audi freshened the A3 four-door hatchback for 2009 and added in a 50-state legal, 2.0-liter diesel engine as an optional powerplant. This engine is supposed to return over 40 mpg on the highway, according to Audi. The 140-hp turbocharged engine produces 236 pound-feet of torque and drives through the dual-clutch automatic transmission that is available in the standard A3 as well as some Volkswagen models. The diesel A3 will be offered only with front-wheel drive. Other updates to the A3 include LED headlights and taillights and the availability of all-wheel drive with the 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
What's new or notable? The diesel engine is the big news here. Aside from the Volkswagen Jetta TDI, there aren't any other small diesels for sale in the U.S. market.
When will it be available? While the freshened A3 goes on sale in April 2009, the diesel model will go on sale in the first quarter of 2010.
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