It's just May and already Audi has launched its new A3 models for 2009. How fast can a year end, almost before it starts? The new Audi A3 and A3 Sportback will come with a raft of technical and visual improvements.

Audi has revealed pictures of the new A3 model due here later in the summer. The new car has more style and features while retaining the A3 look and position as premium end compact car.

The new features for the next generation A3 will include new technologies, such as the unique S tronic dual-clutch transmission with seven speeds, as well as the Audi magnetic ride suspension control system, which creates a mature handling and ride. The new car will come with a sharper, more striking exterior design that lends even greater expression to the A3 family.

Additional equipment, such as the advanced Audi parking systems will also add to the appeal of the latest models. The Audi S3 developing 195 kW (265 hp) now also becomes available as a 5-door Sportback version, a new top model that completes the comprehensive range. The first examples are expected to arrive in Ireland later this summer.

The Audi A3 was created for an entirely new market segment of the premium compact car when the first-generation model made its debut in 1996. The 'Vorsprung durch Technik' brand has been notably successful in that market segment and has since built 1.9 million units of the Audi A3.

After four successive record-breaking years, the one millionth example of the second-generation A3, which went into production in 2003, left the assembly line just a few days ago. Audi is now solidifying its lead.

The new visual details for the three-door A3 and A3 Sportback emphasises its modern profile. The bonnet lid and front wings are more sculpted and the bumper and large single-frame radiator grille have been updated to enhance road presence. The new headlamps incorporate a curved trim element, known as the 'wing', which accentuates their technical perfection.

On S line, Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights provide a distinctive optional feature. New exterior mirrors with integral indicators, new door handles and an attractive new alloy wheel range add to the side profile of the new generation A3.

To the rear, Audi believes that the modified bumper and new tail lights create a clean design; the A3 Sportback now has innovative fibre optic rods arranged in a flat, continuous strip that creates an impressive visual effect in the dark. In addition, the three-door A3 has a modified tailgate with a new light edge.

As a result of the design modifications, the A3 has grown by 2.5 centimetres (0.98 in) in length to 4.24 metres (166.93 in), while the sporty proportions of the Sportback remain virtually unchanged at 4.29 metres (168.90 in) in length.

Inside the car the designers have fine-tuned the premium feel of the car. There are new aluminium design elements on the air vents, light switches and centre console accentuate the prestige character of the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback. The switches and controls beneath the audio system have been given a new, modern look.

The instrument cluster boasts a new sporty feel with black dials and red needles which reinforce the impression of precision and advanced technology, and a shift indicator displays the recommended gear in any given circumstances in the driver information system. Fitted as standard to the SE, Sport and S line, the driver information system displays the time, date and distance in a clear, high-resolution white font. The three-spoke leather steering wheel on the Sport and S line has new aluminium trim, with a flat-bottomed design available as an option on S line.

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