Original estimates were that the Audi A3 Sportback e-Tron would achieve 20 miles of all electric driving, but recent documents filed with the EPA show the e-Tron plug-in hybrid can drive up to 17 miles on its battery power.

The standard Audi A3 e-Tron model is only rated at 16 miles electric range, but with the Ultra package (which includes a downgrade from 17 inch to 16 inch wheels as well as ultra-low rolling resistance 16inch tires) you can achieve 17 miles. The efficiency rating also goes up slightly from 83 MPGe to 86 MPGe with the Ultra package.

Currently, the A3 e-Tron is available in the USA in limited numbers and will soon be available nationwide.

According to a review of the 2016 Audi A3 sportback e-tron by GreenCarReports.com, the plug-in hybrid is more fun to drive than any other plug-in hybrid or extended range electric vehicle they’ve tested in the past.

Part of this status comes from the weight distribution and overall weight of the vehicle.

Audi gave the e-tron aluminum fenders, and aluminum hood, and some other weight saving measures in order to keep the overall vehicle weight to a reasonable total. Overall, the vehicle weighs under 3,400 pounds which is less than 400 pounds heavier than the base 1.8l A3 and the same weight as the 2.0T Quattro A3.

The low overall weight, combined with a battery pack location to help the front/rear weight bias be 55/45 respectively, give the A3 Sportback e-tron a great feel that makes the plug-in hybrid handle great and a pleasure to drive!