Audi has done it again! Audi has raised the efficiency bar once again by increasing fuel economy and lowering CO2 emissions to impressive 99g/km for one of its most popular models, the Audi A3.

The soon to be released Audi A3 1.6 TDI will be powered by a four cylinder TDI engine capable of doing 74mpg while emitting only 99g/km of CO2, this puts the Audi A3 1.6 TDI in Band A of the new VED Rates to take place next year. For more information about Company car taxes visit: Company car tax.

As we all know Audi can improve fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emission without affecting the engine performance and the story remains the same with this four-cylinder TDI engine. With a max output of 105hp and a powerful 250 Nm of torque, the 3-Doors Audi A3 1.6 TDI sprints from 0-62 in 11.4 while the Sportback version reaches 64mph in 11.7.

The exemplary fuel efficiency of only 74mpg and the extremely low CO2 emissions are only possible thanks to Audi’s modular efficiency platform, features like the exclusive Start/Stop technology and the innovative energy-recovery system play an important role in improving the above figures.

The Audi A3 1.6 TDI will be released in two versions: 3-Doors and Sportback, both will have manual five-speed transmissions and a gear-change indicator to help drivers select the most appropriate gear; studies conducted by Audi reveal that 30 percent of fuel consumption depends on a given driver’s decisions and driving style.

Audi hasn’t released prices for the A3 1.6 TDI and the A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI, but we believe they will the similar to models already offering the same performance. Both models are expected to hit Audi Dealers around the UK in the first half of 2010.