Monday, January 29, 2007

Audi A3 3.2 S-line Titanium Package

What you see here is, thus far, one of a kind. An Audi Canada product planner ordered this particular Audi A3 3.2 S-line in Ibis White as an evaluation vehicle to help visualize a proposed ‘Titanium Package’ for the A3 S-line. First introduced last year on the A4 S-line, installation rates of the ‘Titanium Package’ have been so favorable that Audi of America is considering a broadening of the line. A3 S-line models offer the perfect opportunity for expansion.

Audi A3 3.2 S-line Titanium PackageAudi A3 3.2 S-line Titanium Package 2Audi A3 3.2 S-line Titanium Package 3Audi A3 3.2 S-line Titanium Package 4What is different from the standard A3 3.2 S-line?
The most obvious detail is the set of 18-inch titanium-finish wheels – quite similar in design to those on the RS 4. The other main exterior change to this car is a black grille surround, another special piece of kit from Audi’s in-house tailor quattro GmbH.

Inside, the darkened theme continues. Piano black interior trim takes the place of aluminum inserts on each of the door panels and on the center console. Above, a black headliner is the first such fitment in a North American A3, though already standard fare on Titanium Package A4 models.

Audi’s Titanium Package always looks the part on a white car, one reason this particular evaluation vehicle was ordered in Audi’s Ibis White. The A3’s contrasting white stitching on the black leather seats is an interesting accent that those of the A4 range don’t boast.

Sources inside Audi confirm that, if there is a Titanium Package for the Model Year 2008 A3, this is likely quite close to what you will see. Though each of the special pieces of trim found on this car had to be special-ordered, Audi employees have been pleased with the overall look and would likely not change it much if and when the Titanium Package is added to the order book. That said, Audi contacts are quick to point out that, while chances are awfully good, the final decision to build the A3 S-line with a Titanium Package has not been finalized.

So what will come of this very unique A3 that remains, for now, a one-off? Our American staff shooting the car were disappointed to learn that it is a Canadian-spec car and not easily for sale to our much-interested eyes. The instruments are in klicks, not miles and Audi sources tell us the car will go off to auction in Canada shortly since this A3 has served its purpose. Likely a Canadian dealership will buy the car and re-sell it as an Audi Certified Pre-Owned vehicle. Audi sources involved promise they’ll keep us informed, communicating what dealership ends up with the car. This information will then be shared via Fourtitude’s Audi News Blog and the A3 discussion forum just as soon as we learn it. It is our hope that a Fourtitude reader is lucky enough to pick up this very unique car.

© Source: article on fourtitude.com