The Audi A3 Sportback (8V, facelift) G-tron 1.4 TFSI, produced from 2016 to 2018, represents a unique offering within the broader A3 Sportback range. This variant distinguished itself by its bi-fuel capability, designed to run on either gasoline or Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), catering to markets with established CNG infrastructure and incentives. Positioned as an eco-conscious alternative, the G-tron 1.4 TFSI 110 hp model occupied a middle ground in the A3 lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and a lower environmental impact compared to its purely gasoline-powered siblings. It was part of the 8V generation facelift, which brought styling updates and technological enhancements to the A3 range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A3 |
| Generation | A3 Sportback (8V, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | G-tron 1.4 TFSI (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 6.9-7.2 l/100 km (34.1 – 32.7 US mpg, 40.9 – 39.2 UK mpg, 14.5 – 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (CNG) | 4.4-4.6 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.3-4.6 l/100 km (54.7 – 51.1 US mpg, 65.7 – 61.4 UK mpg, 23.3 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (CNG) | 2.8-3.0 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.2-5.5 l/100 km (45.2 – 42.8 US mpg, 54.3 – 51.4 UK mpg, 19.2 – 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (CNG) | 3.4-3.6 kg/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 121-128 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (CNG) | 92-98 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 87.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 158.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4800-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CPWA |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1260 kg (2777.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 280 l (9.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1120 l (39.55 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| CNG cylinder capacity | 14.4 kg |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 660 kg (1455.05 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4313 mm (169.8 in.) |
| Width | 1785 mm (70.28 in.) |
| Height | 1427 mm (56.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2637 mm (103.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| 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 | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| 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; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A3 Sportback (8V, facelift) G-tron 1.4 TFSI, produced between 2016 and 2018, was a key component of Audi’s alternative fuel strategy. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform (specifically the A3/Golf 8V iteration), the G-tron variant offered drivers the flexibility of running on gasoline or the more environmentally friendly and often cheaper Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). This model was primarily aimed at European markets where CNG refueling infrastructure was more developed, and government incentives favored lower-emission vehicles. The 110 horsepower output and the availability of a manual transmission positioned it as an entry-level to mid-range option within the A3 Sportback lineup.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A3 Sportback G-tron lies the CPWA engine code, a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine modified for bi-fuel operation. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) and an intercooled turbocharger to deliver 110 horsepower at 4800-6000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. The key difference from standard 1.4 TFSI engines is the addition of a CNG injection system and a high-pressure CNG tank, typically located under the floor in place of the spare wheel. When running on CNG, the engine management system automatically switches to the appropriate fuel map. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and driver engagement. The engine’s design prioritized efficiency and reduced emissions, making it suitable for the demands of CNG operation.
Driving Characteristics
The A3 Sportback G-tron 1.4 TFSI 110 hp, with its front-wheel drive configuration and manual transmission, offered a practical and reasonably engaging driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 10.8 seconds, which was noticeably slower than the more powerful A3 variants like the 1.8 TFSI or the 2.0 TDI. However, the readily available torque from the turbocharger provided adequate responsiveness for everyday driving situations. The manual gearbox allowed for precise control, and the gear ratios were tuned to maximize fuel efficiency. When running on CNG, a slight reduction in power output was often noticeable, but the lower fuel costs and reduced emissions were often considered worthwhile trade-offs. The suspension setup, typical of the A3 range, provided a comfortable ride quality without sacrificing handling stability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G-tron variant typically came with a standard equipment level comparable to the mid-range A3 Sportback trims. Standard features included air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, an infotainment system with a color display, and electric windows. Safety features such as ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags were also standard. Optional extras included features like Audi’s navigation system, parking sensors, upgraded upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior trim generally featured cloth upholstery, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was consistent with other 8V A3 models, offering a clean and modern aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The A3 Sportback G-tron utilized the standard 8V A3 chassis configuration. The front suspension featured a McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employed a semi-independent torsion beam arrangement. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion type with electric power assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A3 Sportback G-tron was generally well-received by critics as a practical and environmentally conscious alternative within the premium hatchback segment. Its bi-fuel capability was seen as a significant advantage in markets with established CNG infrastructure. Compared to the standard 1.4 TFSI gasoline version, the G-tron offered lower running costs when utilizing CNG, but at the expense of slightly reduced performance. Compared to the diesel-powered A3 models (like the 2.0 TDI), the G-tron offered a quieter and smoother driving experience, but with potentially higher fuel costs when running on gasoline. Fuel economy figures were competitive, particularly when running on CNG, and CO2 emissions were significantly lower.
Legacy
The Audi A3 Sportback G-tron represents an important step in Audi’s exploration of alternative fuel technologies. While CNG adoption remained limited in many markets, the G-tron demonstrated Audi’s commitment to reducing emissions and offering drivers more sustainable transportation options. On the used car market, the G-tron models tend to hold their value reasonably well, particularly in regions where CNG infrastructure is readily available. The 1.4 TFSI engine, in general, is known for its reliability, although the added complexity of the CNG system requires specialized maintenance. The G-tron’s long-term reliability is generally good, provided that the CNG system is regularly inspected and maintained.
