Audi reportedly readying hybrid A3

Both Honda and Toyota have confirmed that hybrid versions of their smallest offerings are on the way, with the latest news following that theme. Audi is readying a hybrid version of its A3 small car, set to hit fleets sometime around 2012.

According to Autocar, Audi is readying a hybrid version of its A3 alongside Volkswagen's program to develop a hybrid version of the Golf hatch. The Audi version will even adopt VW's naming scheme, dawning the name A3 TwinDrive.

Unlike current hybrids, the A3 TwinDrive will use a 106 horsepower 1.6L diesel. The diesel powereplant - along with a 30kW electric motor - will power the front wheels, while two in-wheel 30kW motors will power the rear-wheels, giving the A3 TwinDrive a temporary all-wheel drive setup.

The A3 TwinDrive's lithium-ion batteries will carry enough juice to carry the A3 for 31 miles on electric power alone at speeds up to 75 mph. When the diesel engine is added, the A3 TwinDrive's top speed increases to 106 mph, while still returning an estimated 113mpg.

Audi has yet to confirm when the A3 TwinDrive will hit the retail market, but the electrified A3 is expected to hit fleets in 2012.