Audi's new A3 launched with American buyers in mind

Is Audi pandering to the USA with is introduction of the new A3 in Geneva? James Bell, president of L.A.'s Motor Press Guild and Drive On's correspondent at the show, raises the issue:

Here in Geneva, it was surprising to see that Audi's big introduction, the A3 Concept, was rolled out as a "saloon," or what us Yanks call a sedan. After all, every market in the world, except the U.S. and China, smartly prefers hatchbacks or wagons when it comes to such smaller stature cars. But there on the stage was a pure and simple four-door sedan. And it Is a good looking sedan that in many respects, as well as approximate dimensions, hits the market space once occupied by the A4, BMW's 3 Series, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, and Cadillac CTS. Just like many American waistlines, these cars have grown and made room for a car like the new A3.

But why was a sedan introduced to such a hatch-loving Euro market? Because Audi U.S. asked for it...or rather, demanded it! The current A3 is a wonderful car, but it's success in America has been hampered by it's 5-door design. Irrational as that may be.

As a result, coming to an Audi dealer near you sometime in 2012 will be the production version of this "concept" car with a loud and clear you-asked-for-it, you-got-it-attitude. If its good looks are a prediction of the driving experience, this new A3 cannot come soon enough. But we still hope that they make the 5 door version available for the more discerning and educated buyers among us.