Audi A3 Sportback g-tron - gas in engine

Marginal in France, due to lack of pumps, natural gas began to take off in some of our neighbouring countries. Audi therefore relies heavily on fuel, since the brand has to produce "clean".

In France, only six models, Fiat and Volkswagen badges, offer the possibility to run on natural gas. Add the virtual absence of pumps, except around Toulouse, and you will understand why this fuel is so marginal here. I'm not sure, therefore, that the new Audi A3 Sportback g-Tron sold in our market: the brand still arises at the moment. Although it retains the ability to operate on gasoline, the interest of this variant is two additional fuel tanks located under the floor of the boot. They are able to maintain the gas 7 kg each, stored at a pressure of 200 bar. Enough to travel 400 km without resorting to unleaded, according to the cycle.

Consumption is meanwhile 3.5 kg / 100 km, which corresponds to emissions of 95 g/km of CO2 and would give right to a tax of $200 rebate. Under the hood is the 1.4 TFSI officiating. Revised for the occasion, this turbo four cylinder has lost a few feathers in the operation: power down 140 to 110 HP, while the couple settles from 250 to 200 Nm. Suddenly, the 0 to 100 km/h would require 11 s, up from 9.5 seconds. You should also expect a price increase. But the rate remains well below the of the hybrid rechargeable future A3 e-Tron (opposite), while this compact has a few arguments to seduce those who want to lead 'green'. Especially Audi is building a factory to produce the synthesis of recycled CO2 methane, a factory which will be powered by wind turbines. (see diagram)

Posted 03/01/2013
Author: Yohann Leblanc