New A3 platform date??

[dmw]

Hi All,

Just wondered if anyone has any cast iron info on when the new A3 shape will arrive in the UK? I have read a few articles on the net which range from 2010 to 2012.

I test drove an S3 yesterday, with a view to buying on this summer, but don't want to do it if it will only be current for 12 months!!

Any guidance would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[Igdos]

According to my well-placed sources - aka Autocar online - early 2011. Don't think it will be any earlier than that.

Don't know if 'S' version of new models are always available at launch, maybe someone else can shed some light on that...

I guess worst case you'll be 'current' for 18-20 months.

 

[PregnantNproud]

Hi All,

Just wondered if anyone has any cast iron info on when the new A3 shape will arrive in the UK? I have read a few articles on the net which range from 2010 to 2012.

I test drove an S3 yesterday, with a view to buying on this summer, but don't want to do it if it will only be current for 12 months!!

Any guidance would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Excuse if this is a dumb question, are you talking about the 09 facelift with front led's?

 

[dmw]

Thanks Chaps. Autocar was one of my sources also.

It's frustrating isn't it. Why can't Audi just tell people?

Bearing in mind there are photos on the net, it could be sooner rather than later.

Are they holding off the RS3, until the new shape arrives do you think? If they were going to use the current shape then surely they would hold off the new launch for a while to protect the flagship model??

 

[Igdos]

Thanks Chaps. Autocar was one of my sources also.

It's frustrating isn't it. Why can't Audi just tell people?

Bearing in mind there are photos on the net, it could be sooner rather than later.

Are they holding off the RS3, until the new shape arrives do you think? If they were going to use the current shape then surely they would hold off the new launch for a while to protect the flagship model??

Based on RS4/RS6 models Audi often release a 'hottest' version towards end of model life. Don't know if that's to do with development issues or sales.

There's a pretty comprehensive thread for RS3 in other part of forum - even less cast-iron info on this though I think.

No car manufacturer will give game away on a replacement model too early I would have thought to prevent people being put off shelling out for the current one.

 

[h5djr]

It's frustrating isn't it. Why can't Audi just tell people?

You've answered this question in your first post.

Because people like yourself would put-off buying a car until the new model came out!

 

[dmw]

I understand what you mean, however in this case, if the next S3 is 2012 then by not knowing this I am holding off (others must be too!!).

Your theory works both ways.

 

[h5djr]

I understand what you mean, however in this case, if the next S3 is 2012 then by not knowing this I am holding off (others must be too!!).

Your theory works both ways.

But Audi's sales of the A3/S3 are good at the moment in their own home market so I doubt if they are bothered and it's possible that the new S3 may not be released at the same time as the new A3.

And there will always be a 'new' A3 coming along either a completely new model or a face-lifted existing model so you could put off your purchase for ever. If you like the current model why not buy one now and then in a few years time buy the 'new' one.

I know there is a new A3 coming in 2011 or 2012 but that has not stopped me just buying a new one now. I've just taken delivery of a new Sportback and I will now doubt buy a 'new' A3 in 2012, but I shall enjoy my current one for around 3 years.

Providing you change the car whilst the 'new' one is still relatively new then it will have little effect on the value of your one as there won't be many if any second-hand ones of the 'new' around. Anyone who wants a second-hand S3 will have to buy the previous model.

 

[PregnantNproud]

I'm used to the sweeping lines. Those angled edges will take some getting used too! Think the car will look different in the end?

 

[Lima]

I understand what you mean, however in this case, if the next S3 is 2012 then by not knowing this I am holding off (others must be too!!).

Your theory works both ways.

The Mk6 Golf was launched in Australia at the Melbourne Motor Show in February this year. But Volkswagen Australia had just secured about 300 Mk5 Pirelli GTIs. So, no surprise then that we didn't get a Mk6 GTI pre-production vehicle at our motor show, haha. We won't be getting the new GTIs in Australia until late this year or early 2010.

I understand your holding off theory, but an extra 12-24 months also gives you time be distracted by a car from a different manufacturer. So it is in Audi's interest to get your sale as soon as they can.