New generation with CNG drive: the Audi A3 Sportback 30 g-tron

The Audi A3 Sportback 30 g-tron.

Operated with natural gas or biomethane, it makes the new compact model economical and climate-friendly with very low emissions.

The first A3 Sportback g-tron already featured a sophisticated technology concept. The successor builds on that. Its 1.5 TFSI engine produces 96 kW (131 PS) and generates 200 Nm (147.5 lb-ft) of torque between 1,400 and 4,000 rpm.Its turbocharger with variable turbine geometry makes optimal use of the exhaust gas energy for early and harmonious torque development. The Miller combustion process provides excellent consumption advantages during regular driving.

Light and safe: the CNG tanks.

Three CNG tanks arranged perpendicular to the direction of travel are located in the rear of the vehicle. A narrow steel cylinder with a capacity of approximately 4 kilograms of gas is mounted in front of the gasoline tank. Two large tanks, each of which can hold approximately 7 kilograms of CNG, are located beneath the luggage compartment. They are made of fiber-composite materials and each weighs just 26 kilograms. The inner layer is a gas-tight polyamide vessel. The ultra high-strength outer shell comprises two layers: an inner layer of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer and an outer layer of glass fiber-reinforced polymer. This layer also has a safety function: It turns a milky white if damaged.

Powerful advantages: lower costs, lower emissions.

The Audi A3 Sportback 30 g-tron is a leader when it comes to economy, in part because of the favorable tax rate on natural gas and biomethane until 2026. The emissions balance is similarly positive. Due to the fuel’s high hydrogen content, a CNG vehicle emits approximately 20 percent less carbon dioxide than a comparable gasoline model.

Like all models in the series, the Audi A3 Sportback 30 g-tron combines very fun driving with everyday utility. Beneath its sleek exterior lie many technologies. They can be found in the operating concept and the infotainment, the headlights, the interior and the sporty balanced handling. Depending on the position of the rear seat backs, the luggage compartment has a volume of 280 to 1,100 liters. The vehicle comes with, as standard, LED headlights, digital instrument cluster, 10.1-inch touch display, leather-covered multifunction steering wheel and the assistance systems Audi pre sense front, lane departure warning, swerve assist and turn assist. Options include matrix LED headlights with digital daytime running lights, three-zone automatic air conditioning, head-up display, sport seats with integrated head restraints, panoramic glass sunroof and adaptive cruise assist.