Audi has announced new automatic versions of the Audi A3 with engine start-stop technology. The new 1.4 TFSI petrol and 1.6 TDI versions of the A3 come equipped with the latest engine start-stop technology and use the S tronic twin-clutch automatic transmission.

The engine start-stop technology was previously only available for manual cars but now this new variation works with automatic gearboxes. The start-stop system turns off the engine when the car comes to a standstill in traffic. As long as the brake pedal is pressed the engine remains dormant, but when released the engine restarts in just two-tenths of a second.

The start-stop system can be deactivated at the touch of a button, but when used it can increase fuel economy and reduce CO2 approximately 5g/km.

The A3 also comes with a recuperation system to harness kinetic energy generated during braking. With its help, fuel usage is reduced by as much as three per cent.

The S tronic automatic gearbox uses two clutches and enables the A3 to deliver lightning fast automatic or manual shifts via the gear lever or steering wheel-mounted paddle controls with no interruption of the engine’s power delivery across seven ratios.

Facts and Figures

• A3 1.4 TFSI and 1.6 TDI models start from £18,300 OTR and £18,905 OTR – available to order now for first deliveries in December
• A3 1.4 TFSI S tronic with start-stop – 0-62mph in 9.3 seconds, top speed 126mph, combined mpg 53.3, CO₂ 124g/km
• A3 1.6 TDI S tronic with start-stop – 0-62mph in 11.7 seconds, top speed 121mph, combined mpg 67.3, CO₂ 109g/km