What makes the Audi’s A3 1.4 TFSI ultra, ‘ultra’? Its combined 50 mpg

By Nick Jaynes May 30, 2014

makes audis a3 1 4 tfsi ultra combined 50 mpg audi — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Audi has prided itself on its cutting-edge and wildly efficient TDI diesel technology – just look at the R18 e-tron Le Mans racecar for perfect example.

Diesel, though, isn’t the German brand’s only efficiency wheelhouse. It’s also quite good at tuning sporty yet efficient gasoline engines, too. And this morning it’s has unveiled the latest example of its gas-powered efficiency dynamism: the A3 1.4 TFSI ultra.

The 1.4 TFSI ultra model is powered by – you guessed it – a 1.4-liter TFSI gasoline engine that makes 150 horsepower, good for a 0 to 62 mph run of 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 136.7 mph. Customers can option either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox.

Granted, these aren’t performance numbers to beat the band. But wait; it gets better. While achieving decent acceleration and top speed numbers, the A3 1.4 TFSI ultra also hits a combined fuel economy rating of 50 U.S. mpg, which is Prius territory.

I shouldn’t have to tell you that the A3 is nicer and lovelier to drive and own in a every conceivable way than the Prius. Plus, the Audi doesn’t have any of those pesky lithium-ion batteries onboard that could actually be more environmental harm than good.

If you still want a more efficient version, Audi has a A3 1.6 TDI ultra model that makes a combined 71.3 U.S. mpg – albeit a bit slower 0 to 60 than the TFSI.

So there you have it. If you want efficiency, exceptional drivability, European build quality, and a touch of sportiness, look no further than the A3 1.4 TFSI ultra.

Editors' Recommendations

Audi’s new A3 Sedan learns a few tech tricks from its bigger siblings

Topics

Audi

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

Cars

Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more

Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs

Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?

The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.