It's Official, Audi A3 Gets Greener at Virtually No Cost

European fans of German auto engineering will be delighted to learn that one of the best performing small cars in the world is getting more eco-friendly. Changes to the new Audi A3 1.9 TDI will include a CO2 emissions reduction from 135g/km to 119g/km. That makes the new A3 so green, its British drivers will not even have to pay the dreaded congestion fee to get into Central London.
So what advance drivetrain system was employed this time? Actually none; just some green-thinking applied to conventional mechanics. The transmission of the classic 1.9L diesel four-banger will simply be fitted with taller gear rations (widely-spaced gears may reduce fuel consumption by lowering engine speeds in varying power bands). With decent results in combined city/highway mileage, the technique is fairly effective, but frequently overlooked. Throw in a set of grabby, low-resistance tires, and the new A3 is greener than ever at no additional input cost.
Here in US the A3 has only been around for about a year. It's powered by a slightly larger 2.0-litre petrol in-line four, rated by EPA at 23/32 mpg. Not too impressive. But considering its 200 hp output, Audi A3 might just be one of the greenest and most dynamic sports wagons available.
Source: Whatcar


Source: http://www.goodcleantech.com/2007/08/audi_a3_gets_even_greener.php