Germans take title

The third-generation of Audi’s premium compact vehicle has been named this year’s World Car of the Year – and it’s the second overall title for the marque in the awards’ 10-year history. The A3 overcame the challenge from 23 other cars to win the prestigious title for 2014, which was voted on by 69 judges from 22 countries. Rupert Stadler, Audi’s chairman, says: “The A6 was the first winner of this award and we’re delighted the Audi A3 has repeated that. It showcases Audi’s technical competence car-making, not least in lightweight technology, drivetrain, mobile infotainment and driver-assistance systems.” The new A3 is available as a three-door, sportback, cabriolet and sedan. It’s powered by TFSI gasoline and TDI diesel engines. The A3 Sportback also comes as a g tron, which can be operated using e gas generated by the marque, natural gas or gasoline – when powered by e gas, it travels CO2-neutral. Later this year, the A3 Sportback will also be available as an e tron. Its plug in hybrid drive will enable journeys of up to 50km in all electric mode. The marque is also offering customers in Germany green electricity called Audi energy. All power comes from renewable energy sources at hydro-electric power stations in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. With Audi energy, the A3 e tron is emission-free when operated electrically. Audi has a 16 year success story with the A3. In 1996, the first generation established a new market segment – the premium compact class. With the second generation in 2003, the brand extended its lead with a cabriolet to the three-door and sportback styles. The third generation is available in four body styles with the sedan’s addition. With this win for the A3, Audi says it has maintained its position as the marque with the most world car of the year titles. It has previously won three world performance car titles, two world car design of the year awards and the inaugural world car of the year title.