If you’re looking for a premium hatchback, there are few better choices available than the Audi A3.
Now in its fourth generation, this latest model is better than ever, as it’s packed with technology, features new mild-hybrid engines, and is also more fun to drive.
Alongside the popular five-door Sportback variant, Audi has also introduced a new four-door Saloon variant – adding an additional dimension to the A3 line-up. So, if you’re looking at this new compact Audi, here’s what you need to know…
What engines are available?
At launch, both the A3 Sportback and Saloon are available with a limited engine range – including one petrol and one diesel.
The petrol unit (badged ’35 TFSI’ under Audi’s latest naming policy) is a 148bhp 1.5-litre unit, which is initially paired to a six-speed manual gearbox. With this, you’ll see 0-60mph in 8.2 seconds, along with returning up to 48.7mpg and CO2 emissions of 132g/km. Later this year Audi will introduce a seven-speed S tronic automatic gearbox to this petrol engine, which will also be offered with 48-volt mild-hybrid tech. With that, you can expect increased responsiveness and reduced running costs as the engine can switch off when the model’s coasting.
Also available is a 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel unit, which comes with a seven-speed S tronic automatic gearbox. It shares the same performance figures as the petrol, but reduces CO2 emissions to 119g/km, and can return up to 62.8mpg.
Further down the line, Audi will offer a host of other variants – including a 108bhp 1.0-litre petrol unit and a 114bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine. Sportier ‘S’ and ‘RS’ versions will also follow, along with a new plug-in hybrid.
What trim levels are available?
The new A3 is offered in five trim levels, with equipment highlights and pricing as follows.
Technik (Sportback only) – from £24,900
Standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a leather steering wheel and air-conditioning. It also comes with a large 10.1-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, along with satellite navigation. A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster is also fitted. Other features include rear parking sensors, cruise control and automatic emergency braking with collision avoidance assistance.
Sport – from £26,300
This version adds 17-inch alloy wheels, half-leather seats, aluminium interior detailing and dual-zone climate control. Another useful feature is ‘Audi Drive Select’, which allows you to adjust the car’s settings for additional sportiness or comfort/efficiency.
S line – from £28,200
Popular S line models add upgraded LED lights, sports suspension, larger 18-inch alloy wheels and an S line styling kit. LED interior lighting is also fitted, along with extended leather upholstery and sports seats.
Enquire on a new Audi A3Edition 1 – from £31,240
This launch edition model adds big 19-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights and a black styling kit. Other features include Alcantara and leather seats, along with electrically operated and heated front seats. A larger 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster adds extra appeal, too.
Vorsprung – from £36,340
Sitting at the top of the range, the Vorsprung is highly specced – adding Nappa leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, an electric boot and keyless entry. A host of safety kit is also fitted – including adaptive cruise control, a panoramic parking camera, a head-up display and park assist. Finally, a Bang and Olufsen sound system and wireless smartphone charging comes with it, too. It is a very expensive choice, though.
What about personalisation?
One easy way to make your A3 stand out is by choosing an ‘Audi Exclusive’ colour. This is essentially where you can pick from a vast array of colours, and you’re likely to never see a matching car to yours. It will set you back a steep £2,400, though.
There are some fantastic choices in the regular colour palette, though. Atoll Blue, Turbo Blue and Tango Red are particular highlights.
In terms of regular options, there is limited choice, so you’re best choosing the trim level that works for you – depending on the equipment you want.
Enquire on a new Audi A3