Project UA30 - 2015 Audi A3

Few things get better with age, but Audi's new entry level offering is certainly one of them. Significant improvements have been made over the previous generation in almost every category. Our recently acquired Shiraz Red A3 is among the first MQB chassis cars to hit U.S. shores and the modular and lightweight architecture is the future of VW / Audi vehicles to come. Equipped with the 3rd version of the ubiquitous 2.0T engine, power output and efficiency have increased, while hopefully nagging issues have decreased. The quattro drivetrain is still handled by the Haldex system and power is transmitted through the same DSG / S-tronic transmission. We are a bit disappointed in the lack of available 6 speed manual, but can rationalize Audi's decision given the market segment. Still, despite the missing 3rd pedal, the new lighter, more agile, and more powerful sedan is an engaging and precise opponent right off of the dealer lot. That's not to say that there isn't  room for improvement, as we wouldn't be in business if Audi didn't leave a little to our imagination. Below are a few " Before " photos of how we received the car bone stock off of the dealer lot :

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Since we've been anticipating the arrival of this MQB platform A3, which will share many parts with the new Golf 7 we have got a jump start on developing products to improve on the already impressive performance.

TORQUE ARM INSERT / DOGBONE

Keeping it simple. For starters we have adapted our hugely successful Torque Arm Insert - commonly referred to as the "Dogbone" mount. Through our process we have carefully and precisely engineered our mount to specifically fill the voids in the factory mount, as well as formulated the perfect density to maximize performance while minimizing sacrifice in comfort.  We include upgraded replacement hardware with our insert as well, including proprietary stainless washers which fit the diameter of our insert to a T. This ensures even load distribution and prolongs durability.

BOOST TAP

With the forthcoming APR software release, we thought it would be a good idea to keep an eye on our boost levels in the A3. We have designed a simple and unobtrusive way to easily tie into the existing boost lines so that we can run a gauge inside the cabin. Our Boost Tap is meant to be as factory as possible and give trouble free performance no matter how many PSI your turbo is cranking out.

WHEEL SPACERS

Nothing looks worse than factory tucked wheels. It's amazing how much of a difference it can make in your car's appearance just by moving your wheels out towards your fenders by a few millimeters. This is something we do on every single car that we build, just like many of you. This small investment offers huge visual rewards with very little consequence. We offer a very wide range of hubcentric and wheelcentric wheel spacers with the correct corresponding longer wheel bolts, in both cone and ball seat depending on what type of wheels your car is running. **Keep an eye out for an in depth post in the future that will detail multiple different size spacers with various wheel width and offset combinations.

STABILA SWAYBAR

We have already begun prototyping our line of Stabila Swaybars for the A3 and Mk7 Golf / GTI chassis. These bars are made from solid spring steel, and are CNC mandrel bent to ensure a consistent and accurate fit each and every time. The ends of our Stabila bar are forged, and not welded which gives superior strength and durability. We are confident that these swaybars will not only keep your car flatter in the turns, but will also stand up to years of abuse without failure.

JOM HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE COILOVERS

Given our close relationship with JOM Germany, we have already been able to test fit a new set of coil overs for the Audi A3. We will be working to develop these kits to our specifications, much like we did with the MK6 Jetta with non independent rear suspension. We will be placing a priority on ride height , ride quality, and affordability above all else. Through the years we have been very pleased with the quality and durability that JOM has been able to offer and we plan to continue our successful relationship.

We will be posting updates as things progress and our new A3 begins to take shape. We of course have plans to make cosmetic changes as well as find the perfect set of complimenting wheels...     Project UA30 - 2015 Audi A3