Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A3 |
| Generation | A3 Sportback (8V) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI ultra (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 3.9-4.0 l/100 km (60.3 – 58.8 US mpg, 72.4 – 70.6 UK mpg, 25.6 – 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.2-3.3 l/100 km (73.5 – 71.3 US mpg, 88.3 – 85.6 UK mpg, 31.3 – 30.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.4-3.5 l/100 km (69.2 – 67.2 US mpg, 83.1 – 80.7 UK mpg, 29.4 – 28.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 89-93 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 91.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 207.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 3200-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CRKB, CXXB |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1765 kg (3891.16 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1220 l (43.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4310 mm (169.69 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Height | 1426 mm (56.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Front track | 1536 mm (60.47 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1506 mm (59.29 in.) |
| Front overhang | 869 mm (34.21 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 805 mm (31.69 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
The Audi A3 Sportback (8V) 1.6 TDI ultra, produced from 2013 to 2015, represented the entry point into the third-generation A3 range (8V chassis). Positioned as a fuel-efficient option within the Sportback hatchback body style, it aimed to deliver a balance of practicality, technology, and running costs. This variant was primarily marketed in Europe, where demand for diesel-powered, economical vehicles was high. The “ultra” designation signified Audi’s efforts to maximize efficiency through weight reduction and aerodynamic improvements. It sat below the more powerful 2.0 TDI and TFSI models in the A3 lineup, targeting buyers prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI ultra is the CRKB or CXXB engine code, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family. It features a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The valvetrain employs four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to the engine’s torque output. The 1.6 TDI was paired with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for efficient cruising and acceptable in-town performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.6 TDI ultra resulted in a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of around 10.7 seconds. While not particularly quick, the engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving. The torque curve was relatively flat, offering usable power from low engine speeds, making it suitable for navigating urban environments and overtaking on country roads. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TDI variants, the 1.6 TDI felt noticeably slower, especially at higher speeds. The manual transmission, while efficient, required more driver involvement than the optional S tronic dual-clutch transmission available on higher-spec A3 models. The gear ratios were spaced to maximize fuel economy, sometimes requiring downshifts for quicker acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 TDI ultra typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a multi-function steering wheel, and an infotainment system with a color display. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Common optional extras included parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded infotainment systems with navigation. The “ultra” trim also included specific aerodynamic enhancements and lightweight components to improve fuel efficiency.
Chassis & Braking
The A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI ultra utilized an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering was electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, making it well-suited for long journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI ultra was generally well-received by automotive critics for its impressive fuel economy and low running costs. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the more powerful alternatives. Compared to the 2.0 TDI, the 1.6 TDI offered significantly better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. The 1.6 TDI also proved to be more reliable than some of the earlier direct-injection diesel engines, with fewer reports of issues related to diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging. Its main competitors included the Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI, the Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi, and the Opel/Vauxhall Astra 1.6 CDTi.
Legacy
The 1.6 TDI ultra powertrain proved to be relatively durable, with many examples still on the road today. However, like all diesel engines, it is susceptible to issues related to the DPF and turbocharger. Regular servicing and the use of high-quality oil are crucial for maintaining its longevity. In the used car market, the A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI ultra represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an economical and practical hatchback. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs make it an attractive option for those covering high mileages. While not a performance car, it offers a comfortable and refined driving experience for everyday use.
