The car was unveiled to the world's media in Berlin last month. It focuses on weight-saving as part of an economy drive—the use of high strength aluminium components make up roughly 20 per cent of the body.
Engines include 2.0 TDI 177bhp in Band B for annual road tax which Audi say will account for roughly four out of every five cars ordered. It is available in 6-speed manual and multitronic transmissions from launch.
Other engines include two 3.0 diesel units with 204/245hp outputs, and two petrols in 2.8 and 3.0 variations. An all-new 3.0 twin-turbo diesel 313hp model will arrive later this year.
Trim levels are SE and S line. Each will feature alloy wheels, leather upholstery, cruise and front and rear parking controls, Bluetooth phone preparation, light and rain sensors.
The S line will add 18-inch alloy wheels, Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lamps, sports suspension, sports seats, and an exclusive S line exterior and interior style.
For Ireland, Avant models will also have chrome roof rails, a reversible boot cover and auto tailgate opening. The boot can take 565 litres, increasing to 1,680 when rear seat backs are down.
New options feature gesture controlled tailgate; head up display and MMI Navigation + with Google Earth.
First customer deliveries start in early October.
