Audi A3 Plug-in Rated at 157 mpg on Europe Test Cycle

Volkswagen AG's Audi unit says the new A3 Sportback e-tron plug-in hybrid generates 204 hp but burns only 1.5 liters of fuel per 100 km of travel (157 mpg) on the European test cycle.

Audi, which expects to debut a standard hybrid version of the A3 Sportback by the end of this year, intends to roll out the plug-in variant in 2014.

The plug-in's powertrain consists of 1.4-liter, four-cylinder direct-injection gasoline engine that makes 150 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque; and a disk-shaped 101-hp electric motor that generates 243 lb-ft of torque.

The motor is built into a modified 6-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission and powered by an 8.8-kWh lithium-ion battery housed beneath the rear seat. Power electronics, which are packaged in the forward engine compartment, are cooled by the same circuit that handles the battery and charging system.

Audi notes that the two power source compliment each other. The electric motor delivers peak torque from zero to 2,000 rpm, and the piston engine does the same from 1,750 rpm to 4,000 rpm.

The A3 e-tron can be driven with either or both power sources. Both automatically deactivate when the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal, putting the car into a "gliding" mode that eliminates braking torque and improves efficiency.

Audi says the powertrain is capable of propelling the A3 from zero to 100 kph (62 mph) in 7.6 seconds and to a top speed of 222 kph (138 mph). In electric mode, the car can hit 81 mph and travel 50 km (31 miles).