Audi is making an iportant stept on the US market with the inroduction of its first electrified vehicle, the current A3 e-tron. The C-segment hatchback is in fact a plug-in hybrid, that can offer a pure electric drive in the first miles. The plug-in hybrid will launch at dealerships nationwide in October. EPA figures will be announced in the near future once they are available from U.S. regulators.
 
The first Audi plug-in hybrid, or PHEV, to hit the market will be priced from $37,900 for a Premium package to $46,800 for a  Prestige package. The vehicle will offer even greater value when, as expected, it qualifies for a federal tax credit of $4,168.
 
The 2016 A3 Sportback e-tron features a 1.4 liter TFSI engine with a six-speed S tronic transmission. Combined with a liquid-cooled, permanent magnet-driven electric motor, the A3 e-tron produces 204 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque for off-the-line acceleration and high-end power.
 
An 8.8-kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides electrical energy storage and is hidden beneath the rear seat. The charging connection for the A3 Sportback e-tron is located behind the four rings in the Singleframe grille. 240-volt charging quickly replenishes the battery in about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Recharging through a 120-volt outlet takes approximately 8 hours.