FLEET WORLD - Audi takes two awards for the A3 and A4 at this years ceremony.

All-round appeal of Audi premium compact hatchback and compact executive saloon is recognised by top fleet title

• Best Premium Lower Medium award for Audi A3, Best Compact Executive Award for Audi A4 presented in London at annual Fleet World Honours ceremony

Factors such as efficiency, connectivity, premium quality and range variety feature particularly prominently in the decision making process for fleet managers, and it is against these and many other key criteria that the Audi A3 compact hatchback and A4 compact executive saloon have been judged best-in-class in the 2017 Fleet World Honours.

Presented yesterday at the RAC Club in London, the Fleet World Honours include a total of 20 car-focused award categories, each  requiring the models within them to be assessed not only on the basis of ‘real world‘ attributes such as performance, refinement, economy, accommodation and connectivity, but also on their ‘on-paper’ viability from a fleet perspective.

AUDI A3

AUDI A4

The importance of the A3 in carving out the compact hatchback segment wasn’t lost on the judges, and nor were the many benefits of the significant revisions the three-door hatchback, five-door Sportback, Saloon and Cabriolet underwent in mid-2016. 

In summarising their decision they wrote: “Audi created this segment with the original A3, but it hasn’t rested on its laurels. Refreshed last year, the A3 now features the latest connectivity and safety features, as well as two compelling petrol alternatives to the default diesel engines. Peerless cabin quality, and trims to suit all tastes and needs, mean it’s still leading the way.”

The judges were even more emphatic in their praise for the A4, describing the compact executive Saloon and Avant as “a revolution in its segment”. They went on to pronounce it “better than ever to drive, with more space for passengers and an interior good enough to suit cars costing twice as much. Factor in a line-up of fleet-friendly diesel, and now petrol, engines, a versatile estate and rugged Allroad versions, and it’s a great offer for fleets.”

Head of Audi Fleet Sales James Douglas welcomed the excellent result for these two vitally important Audi fleet sector contenders, saying: “Fleet World is a respected title with a specific focus on director level fleet decision makers, so the appearance of two of our most compelling company car offerings at the forefront of their respective Honours award categories could potentially have far-reaching positive implications for us. Fleet managers take endorsements such as these seriously, and so do my team and I – we thank Fleet World for showing such confidence in the viability of these two heartland Audi ranges.”

The Audi A3 ranges received a raft of important updates in 2016, taking on board new features such as the Audi Smartphone Interface and standard Xenon or LED lighting and introducing numerous new driver assistance and infotainment options from the larger classes including Matrix LED headlamps, the fully digital Audi Virtual Cockpit and Audi Phone Box wireless charging and connection. A new three-cylinder 1.0 TFSI engine also added to the already highly economical range of four-cylinder TFSI and TDI engines, one of which – the 1.4 TFSI with 150PS – works alongside a powerful electric motor to deliver 166mpg and 38g/km potential in the A3 Sportback e-tron plug-in hybrid.

A completely new A4 range encompassing Saloon, Avant, allroad quattro and S quattro models became available in the UK in late 2015, and quickly distinguished itself by way of near luxury class levels of refinement and quality, exceptional in-car technology and a range of extraordinarily efficient four and six-cylinder TDI and TFSI engines contributing to a highly cost effective ownership proposition.

Nissan launches a special edition of the NOTE, the Black Edition gives it an aggressive more muscular look.

• New limited edition of the popular compact hatchback
• Desirable styling enhancements create a sophisticated new look
• Based on Acenta mid-grade for high level of standard equipment
• On sale now priced from £14,415 OTR

Striking contemporary design, a high standard specification and a touch of premium quality seamlessly blend together on a new special version of the Nissan Note – the Black Edition.

The most eye-catching enhancement is to the exterior of the popular compact (B-segment) hatchback. The addition of a Dynamic Styling Pack means sporty body-coloured bumpers front and rear, side skirts and black bezel headlights. A performance-oriented black spoiler at the top of the hatchback further enhances the look.

Other upgrades include 16-inch alloy wheels, smart new door handles and mirror covers, plus gloss inserts around the daytime running lights. There is a new high quality finish to the B and C-pillars, which frame the rear passenger door windows. As the car’s name implies, all these enhancements are finished in premium black.

The interior of the Note Black Edition has also been given a significant makeover. The centre console is finished in gloss black, with a black gear shift knob close by. Above, the black headliner adds a stand-out and sophisticated look. Electric rear windows are included and the NissanConnect touch-screen infotainment system is also available as an option.

The Nissan Note Black Edition comes in two striking body colours – a pearlescent Storm White or a metallic Pearl Black – and is based on the popular Acenta mid-grade trim level. That means air conditioning, a multi-function leather steering wheel and Bluetooth connectivity with audio streaming included on every car.

They are in addition to the Note’s most appealing features – its spacious interior and modern, efficient engines. Black Edition models are available with a choice of two powerplants from the Note range – the 1.5-litre dCi 90 manual and 1.2-litre 80 manual.

Best-selling Audi A3 Hatchback benefits from a significant technology update, new engines & styling refinements

Best-selling Audi compact hatchback benefits from a significant technology update, new engines and styling refinements 

• Now compatible with fully digital Audi virtual cockpit
• Audi smartphone interface as standard and Audi phonebox with inductive charging
• Updated MMI control logic, improved Audi connect option now incorporating embedded data SIM
• Advanced new driver assist features including traffic jam assist and rear cross traffic assist
• Enhanced standard specification now includes cruise control, light and rain sensors and three-spoke multi-function steering wheel
• New engines: 1.0 TFSI three-cylinder and newly developed 2.0 TFSI
• 10PS boost for S3 to 310PS, 20Nm torque increase to 400Nm with S tronic
• Styling and lighting design revisions - Xenon or LED headlamps now standard, Matrix LED headlamps newly available
• New colours and new wheel designs
• Choice of SE, SE Technik, Sport or S line specifcation
• Open for UK order in May, first deliveries in summer

The Audi A3 is accelerating to catch up with the Vorsprung durch Technik brand’s latest technological developments – a new, even more sharply styled A3 featuring new engines and accommodating the latest driver assistance and infotainment advances, including the standard-fit Audi smartphone interface and the optional fully digital Audi virtual cockpit, becomes available to order in May. 

The first three-door, five-door Sportback, Saloon and Cabriolet versions, headed by their respective S3 flagships, will arrive with UK customers from late summer. The plug-in hybrid A3 Sportback e-tron with its 176mpg capability and 37g/km CO₂ output will also make its debut in updated form later this year. 

Controls & displays, infotainment and Audi connect

The highlight in the interior of the new Audi A3 is the Audi virtual cockpit, which can now be specified as an alternative to the standard analogue unit. This innovative operating concept, which is available for the first time in the compact class, displays the most important driving-relevant information in high resolution on a 12.3-inch diagonal TFT screen.

The driver can switch between two views by pressing the “View” button on the multifunction steering wheel. In classic mode, the instruments appear as large as the usual analogue displays. In infotainment mode, however, a central window predominates, which provides more space to the navigation map or shows lists for the telephone, radio and audio. The rev counter and speedometer appear as small round clocks.

The menu structure in the MMI system has also been redesigned. Operation with its flat hierarchies is based on smartphones. The centerpiece of the MMI terminal is the round rotary/push-button control, whose ring is illuminated in white in the top version. On its surface is the optional touch-sensitive touchpad for entering characters and for multi-finger gestures, allowing the driver to zoom within the map. Above and beside the rotary/push-button control are toggle switches and buttons with which the driver can navigate through the newly designed menu structure. The enhanced voice control for navigation, radio, media and phone now also understands many phrases from everyday language.

Audi connect in further simplified form

In infotainment, the new Audi A3 again sets new standards. The MMI radio plus with the electrically extended 7-inch diagonal monitor is standard equipment. MMI navigation (standard on SE Technik and above) and MMI navigation plus with MMI touch in conjunction with the Audi connect module bring many online functions into the car at high speed via the super-fast LTE standard. They include, for example, navigation with Google Earth and Google Street View traffic information in real time as well as practical information on parking, destinations, news or the weather.

When the optional Technology package which now includes a three year subscription to Audi Connect is specified, the flat rate data plan that enables owners to access Audi connect services is now included ‘out of the box’ thanks to the Audi connect SIM card pre-installed in the car. Customers receive this embedded SIM (e‑SIM) in combination with Audi connect in Europe. It permits roaming in most European countries.

The free Audi MMI connect app enables other services, such as online media streaming and transfer of a calendar from a smartphone to the MMI. The A3 e-tron also features services for programming the charging and the departure time and for the air conditioning.

Mobile phones with iOS and Android operating systems can now be connected with the car via the standard Audi smartphone interface, which made its debut in the latest Q7 and A4 models. The optional Audi phone box in the centre armrest uses near-field coupling to link smartphones wirelessly to the vehicle’s antenna and enables inductive charging.

For the first time in the Audi A3 range, two mobile phones can now be simultaneously connected via the Bluetooth hands-free profile when Audi Phone Box is specified, enabling the driver to connect his/her work and personal phone without having to switch between connections.

Driver assistance systems from the Audi full-size category

With numerous driver assistance systems, the new Audi A3 raises the bar in the premium compact segment yet again. New to this model and to the segment is the traffic jam assist system, which works together with Audi adaptive cruise control (ACC) to keep the A3 and S3 at a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and in combination with the S tronic transmission, automatically sets it in motion again after a short stop. In congested traffic, the system can even work in combination with Audi active lane assist to briefly take over the steering on well-surfaced roads at speeds of up to 40mph. Another new feature available for S tronic versions of the A3 family in conjunction with adaptive cruise control and Audi active lane assist  is the optional Emergency Assist, which initiates braking down to a safe stop if, despite warnings, no steering activity by the driver is detected.

The new rear cross-traffic assist can also be specified in combination with Audi side assist or the Audi parking system plus to warn the driver about cross traffic when slowly backing out of a perpendicular parking space, for example.

The further developed Audi active lane assist and Audi pre sense front, including predictive pedestrian protection, also make town and country driving even safer.

Subtle visual differentiation

Although hardly any change has been made to the dimensions – 4.24 metres in length with a wheelbase of 2.60 metres – the new Audi A3 looks more purposeful than ever. Its Singleframe grille features sharper lines and is broader, and its headlights are flatter, with distinctive outer contours.

The rear accentuates the width of the new A3 – with the horizontal illuminated graphics of the rear lights and the separation edge above the redesigned diffuser. The colour palette has also been expanded. Twelve paint colours are available to choose from depending on specification, including the five new colours Ara blue, Cosmic blue, Nano grey, Tango red and Vegas yellow.

Extensively updated: the engine line-up

The engine line-up for the Audi A3 comprises six engines (three petrol and three diesel units). Their power output ranges from 110PS to 190PS. All fulfil the EU6 standard.

The 1.0 TFSI engine is a new entry-level choice for the A3 range, and notable for creating its first ever three-cylinder variant. The compact engine delivers 115PS and 200 Nm (147.5 lb-ft) of torque at 2,000 to 3,500rpm, and its inherent efficiency  is achieved without sacrificing anything in terms of driving pleasure.

The 1.4 TFSI COD features cylinder-on-demand efficiency technology, turning off two cylinders when the corresponding output is not required. The engine with 1,395 ccm displacement offers 150PS and 250 Nm (184.4 lb-ft) of torque.

A technical highlight is the completely new 2.0 TFSI with its innovative combustion process. From a displacement of 1,984 ccm it generates 190PS, delivering 320 Nm (236.0 lb-ft) of torque at 1,500 to 4,200rpm.

The consistently popular 2.0-litre four-cylinder TDI engine with 1,968 ccm displacement will be available in two states of tune in the new A3 – 150PS and 340 Nm (250.8 lb-ft) at 1,750 to 3,000rpm – and slightly later with 184PS and 380 Nm (280.3 lb-ft) at 1,750 to 3,000rpm.

The entry-level diesel engine is the 1.6 TDI with 110PS. It is available in combination with the six-speed manual transmission or the S tronic seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

The 2.0 TFSI engines are joined by a fully newly developed seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission with wet clutch. It replaces the previous six-speed dual clutch transmission with dry clutch.

The new Audi A3 transmits the engine power to the front wheels by default. For the petrol-engine versions, quattro all-wheel drive is available for the 2.0 TFSI with 190PS.

The suspension of the new Audi A3 impresses with its impressive combination of suppleness and balance. With the optional sport suspension (standard on S line models), the body sits 15 millimetres lower, and 25 millimetres lower with the optional S line sport suspension available at no extra cost. The electromechanical power steering is sensitive and efficient in operation. It can be upgraded in many models to the electrically powered progressive steering system that is standard in the S3 series.

The new Audi A3 rides on 16-inch alloy wheels in SE form, and on 17-inch and 18-inch wheels when equipped to Sport or S line specification respectively. The wide range of optional wheels ranging in size from 17-inch to 19-inch includes new designs. 

For the first time in the segment: Matrix LED headlights

The headlights of the Audi A3 provide a distinctive new look with their jagged bottom edges. Xenon plus units with LED daytime running lights are standard, with the exception of S line and S3 models which now automatically come equipped with LED headlights and LED rear lights incorporating sweeping dynamic rear indicators. For the first time, matrix LED headlights are offered as an option. Light and rain sensors are fitted as standard in all specifications.

Consistent lightweight design has brought the kerb weight of the Audi A3 with 1.0 TFSI engine down to just 1,150 kg – the lightest in its class. The body of the new Audi A3 is crashproof and rigid to a high extent. A noise-insulating windscreen is standard equipment.

The interior affords the top quality typical of Audi. Cruise control is now standard equipment on SE models, and the newly designed three-spoke steering wheel also fitted as standard to the entire range is available with heating as an optional extra. For more comfort on long journeys, Audi offers a driver seat with massage function in the new A3. Another highlight for S line models is the interior lighting package, now fitted as standard.

The new Audi A3 Sportback e-tron

The plug-in hybrid e-tron version of the A3 Sportback combines a 1.4 TFSI engine with 150PS and 250 Nm(184.4 lb-ft) of torque with an electric motor that produces 75 kW and 330 Nm (243.4 lb-ft). The system output of 204PS permits excellent response.

Full charging of the lithium-ion battery (8.8 kWh) from a 380-volt three phase-current supply takes a little over two hours.

More power: the new Audi S3

10PS more power and, in conjunction with the S tronic, 20 Nm (14.8 lb-ft) higher torque – the already potent S3 has developed its muscle as part of the wholesale overhaul of the A3 range. In addition, Audi engineers have integrated S3-specific control for the Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) and the multi-plate clutch for improved driving dynamics, driving pleasure and safety. The 2.0 TFSI now generates 310PS and with S tronic delivers 400 Nm (295.0 lb-ft) over the large range of 2,000 to 5,400 revolutions per minute. The S3 Sportback, S3 Saloon and S3 Cabriolet also profit from the extensive new features.

Minivans like the Scenic are not dead in Europe says Renaults head of Compact Models, Andre Abboud.

The head of Renault’s compact models, Andre Abboud, says European demand for minivans such as the Scenic definitely is “not dead.” Abboud also says sales are stabilizing for compact sedans such as the Megane after years of losing volume to SUVs. Abboud shared his views during a recent interview with Automotive News Europe France Correspondent Bruce Gain.

What are your expectations for the new Scenic?

When you look at the MPV (minivan) market share and the Scenic, you see that sales are very stable [the Scenic was Europe’s No. 2-selling compact minivan in 2015].

So minivans are far from dead?

They are not dead. There is still plenty of room for MPVs. In Europe, the share is more than 18 percent. The customer still needs cars that have a lot of modularity and room inside. So what you need to do is to put a little bit of emotion in those cars and then you can make it a success.

How does the Megane fit into Renault’s strategy to make its vehicles more upscale?

Our customers simply want more. Yes, we are making our cars more upscale but our customers in Europe also want a modern design, which the Megane offers. Technology is a big part of their lives and they want to have that experience in their car as well.

But without raising prices?

Yes, we are even lowering the price of some of the Megane versions.

So there is also plenty of life in the compact hatchback and station wagon sectors?

Yes. We have sold 6.5 million sedans in this sector so the Megane remains a core model for Renault and there is no doubt we needed to replace it. And when you look at the compact sector in Europe, the hatchback and the station wagon together represent almost 50 percent of the segment.

That means demand for traditional compact body styles is stabilizing?

After a sharp drop five years ago, it's beginning to either stabilize or the rate at which it is falling is leveling off. Today in Europe we still sell more hatchbacks and station wagons than we do SUVs. So even if you have spent a lot of time talking about how SUV sales are growing so quickly, they are not surpassing sedan or station wagon models in sales.

How does pricing come into play in retail channels between SUVs and other compact body types?

You still have a pricing gap between compact sedans and hatchbacks and SUVs. On average, there is a 2,000 euro to 3,000 euro [price premium for SUVs and crossovers].

Why is Renault debuting Hybrid Assist mild hybrid technology instead of full hybrid or plug-in hybrid cars?

Hybrid Assist is a technology that is affordable and that can help customers save more than 10 grams of CO2 per liter per car. So it is the most affordable technology that can really offer lower fuel consumption and emissions.

Is Renault still undecided whether it will first launch a plug-in hybrid or a full hybrid first?

All technologies are under consideration. We want to be ready if the market needs a particular technology. This is a big advantage the Renault-Nissan alliance offers; the scale effect we have. We are able to develop the technology, and if there is a market for it, you can be sure that we will be there.

Bruce Gain

REPORT HERE