Audi A3 Sportback e-tron Starts at $38825

The A3 e-tron is the first in a coming wave of battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles from Audi to wear the e-tron badge, with the next-generation Q7 midsize crossover and A8 large sedan expected to be among the next to arrive.

Want your tidy Audi hatchback in plug-in hybrid form?

The 2016 A3 Sportback e-tron features a 1.4 liter TFSI engine with a six-speed S tronic transmission. Drive is to the front wheels only and peak output of the system is 204 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.

While that auto name is a mouthfull, it is important as the first-ever plug-in vehicle from Audi to be sold in the U.S. It will launch at Audi dealerships in October, and at a base MSRP of $37,900 it is positioned well below the luxury electric vehicle market, and is nearly be in the affordable EV segment. It is a package that makes the A3 Sportback e-tron a versatile choice for the full array of daily commuting challenges, some of which can be handled on battery power alone. While yet to be finalized, Audi is anticipating each of these compact hatches will qualify for a $4,168 Federal income tax credit in addition to any other available state or local incentives.

The Audi A3 e-tron is equally happy operating in electric or gasoline mode. The battery pack is installed under the rear seats, offering more space in its trunk.

Stepping up to the Premium Plus trim costs $42,000, while the range-topping Prestige model carries a base price of $46,800.

With a full charge taking around 2 hours and 15 minutes from a compatible type 2 charging station however, those making a long lunch stop may find it sensible to find a nearby charge point when possible. As reports state, the A-3 e-tron gives 31 miles of driving range on electric power, but that figure is likely to vary for the US, mainly because of different testing cycles of Europe and US regulators.

If you only have a regular 120V outlet, it’ll take more like eight hours, though. It comes with HID headlights, LED taillights, LED interior lighting, automatic dual-climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Audi Advanced Key, a rearview camera, Audi pre-sense basic, Audi drive select, a 7-inch MMI screen, and more. Like virtually all EVs and plug-ins, this new eco-oriented A3 will offer a smartphone app that allows owners to remotely check on the charge status of their vehicles as well as precondition the cabin temperature to help save energy.