It’s a small update, but a meaningful one, for anyone considering a new Audi A3. As one of the more affordable models in Audi’s range, the A3 has long been a pretty good point of entry into the brand. Lots of new improvements to Audi’s stable premium compact car, it’ll soon arrive on UK shores sometime in mid-April, and Audi will also reveal an updated plug-in hybrid A3 model later this year. For now, the initial batch of the new Audi A3s will come in two variants.
First is the 35 TFSI, featuring a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol engine (good for 148bhp), with the option of either a 7-speed auto or a 6-speed manual gearbox (the latter will be launched at a later date). Next is the 35 TDI, with the same horsepower figures, but now coming from a 2.0-litre diesel engine, and a 7-speed auto. Do keep an eye out, as Audi plans to unveil additional variants of the new A3 Sportback and Saloon, with more petrol and diesel powertrains.
Athletic Exterior Styling And A Modern Cabin
The highlight of the new Audi A3 is its revised styling. Sportier, more aggressive, and angular, with inspirations taken from Audi’s potent RS models. This includes larger side intakes, wider and flatter front grilles, and a redesigned front bumper, as well as its distinctive rear diffuser. Interestingly, for the first time in the A3 range, Audi now lets you pick and choose between 4 different daytime running light signatures, for that added bit of personalisation.
The interior sees a massive change, too. Bits of trim, such as the air vents, gear shifter, and fabric inlays, not to mention the ambient lighting, have all received a new finish and redesign, all to make the refreshed A3 appear and feel sportier. There’s a high degree of customisation, and Audi’s typically awesome suite of infotainment and multimedia systems, as well as the digital dash, gets further upgrades, as well. You could even interact with Amazon Alexa.
Small Interior Improvements And Better Safety
Optionally, you could even get additional lighting elements and accents for the A3, all around the centre console, door sills, and even the cup holders now light up! Should you opt for Audi’s optional Sonos sound system too, and that’ll make for a snazzy interior. It’s not just all design either, with a bevy of tiny practical touches (like additional adjustability in the armrests), and Audi’s use of 100-perfect recycled polyester for the textured fabric in the new A3.
Safety features are, as with most new cars, a critical factor. Audi’s new A3 is now fitted with additional sensors for collision avoidance, turning assist, and departure warning. Its adaptive cruise control, which works up to speeds of 130mph, can now manage assisted lane changes. Additional systems, such as the parking assist, ought to make parking way more easier. All in all, Audi’s updates to the A3 are refreshing; now sportier and more modern than ever.
