Audi A3 Buyer's guide review

Like most European vehicle manufacturers, Audi also started their company in the early 1900s. They began manufacturing and marketing this A3 series in 1996. The Audi A3 is a luxury sedan that offers a premium driving experience with a high-quality interior, a smooth ride, along with a range of modern features. It comes in three basic models: hatchback, convertible, and sedan. The hatchback model is commonly known as the 'Sportback', while the sedan model is referred to as the 'Limousine'.

It has four main generations, and the first two of them (Released in 1996 and 2003, respectively) were based on the Volkswagen Group A platform, while the third and fourth generations (Released in 2012 and 2020, respectively) use the Volkswagen Group MQB platform. The A3 is positioned as an entry-level model in Audi's lineup, and it stands out as a compelling option for those seeking a luxurious yet practical compact sedan.

Under its hood, the A3 offers a choice of responsive turbocharged engines paired with a smooth-shifting dual-clutch seven-speed manumatic transmission system, ensuring a dynamic and enjoyable driving experience. Depending on the market and trim level, the engine capacity ranges from 1395 to 1968 CC. The A3 also features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine available in two variants: 40 TFSI (Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection) and 45 TFSI. The 40 TFSI engine produces a maximum power of 184 horsepower and a maximum torque of 300 Nm. In comparison, the 45 TFSI engine (a more powerful variant) produces a maximum power of 228 horsepower, along with a maximum torque of 350 Nm. Additionally, Audi’s own Quattro all-wheel drive system is also available in both these models.

A 1.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine model is also available among the third-generation Audi A3 vehicles and is very popular among South Asian users. This engine produces a maximum power of 119 horsepower and a maximum torque of 200 Nm. The engine bay of the Audi A3 is regarded as one of the most well-structured among high-end sedans. The 45 TFSI variant can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 to 6.0 seconds, while the 40 TFSI is slightly slower but still offers responsive acceleration for everyday driving.

The fuel economy of the Audi A3 varies depending on the engine configuration and drivetrain. The 40 TFSI engine model consumes 10-12 kmpl in the city and 14-16 kmpl on highways. The 45 TFSI engine model consumes 8-10 kmpl in the city and 13-15 kmpl on highways. Fuel economy can also depend on factors like driving style, vehicle load, and maintenance. However, owners and reviewers typically find that the Audi A3’s real-world fuel economy aligns closely with its estimates. Whether you choose the FWD or the Quattro AWD variant, the Audi A3 is designed to deliver an economical driving experience across various conditions.

If you take a look at the exterior of the Audi A3, you'll notice Audi’s unique design language throughout the vehicle. It’s a blend of elegance, sportiness, and aerodynamic efficiency. Starting at the front, it features a functional single-frame grille adorned with the symmetrical Audi logo. The shape of the vehicle showcases a streamlined profile with a low roofline and dynamic character lines, giving it a sporty appearance.

Like all other vehicles of its generation, the Audi A3 also comes with standard LED headlights, taillights, and sharp daytime running lights. If we consider the advanced lighting techniques of this vehicle, it has optional Matrix LED Headlights to provide adaptive lighting, which adjusts the lighting distribution based on the driving environment and oncoming traffic. The A3's power-folding side mirrors are practical in tight spots and can be heated to prevent fogging in cold weather. Most base models of Audi A3 comes with 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels, while higher trims and sportier versions can come with 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels. Higher trims of the A3 comes with a panoramic sunroof, which adds a touch of luxury to the cabin.

If we consider the boot of this vehicle, some trims offer features such as a hands-free power tailgate, which makes it easy to access the boot when your hands are full. The Audi A3 sedan offers a boot capacity of approximately 380 liters (13.4 cubic feet). The boot is well-shaped with a wide opening, a flat floor, and a relatively low loading height that will further enhance its accessibility. There are also some hooks and optional storage nets to keep smaller items in place. The rear seats of the A3 can be folded down in a 60/40 split configuration, expanding the boot space to transport larger items. It also has an underfloor storage compartment that houses the spare wheel and provides additional space to store smaller items.

The interior of the Audi A3 is one of its most vital selling points, showcasing the brand's commitment to luxury, comfort, and technology. It features high-quality materials such as leather upholstery, aluminum accents, and soft-touch plastics. It has a clean dashboard, a center console, and a multifunctional steering wheel that you can use to control both the infotainment system and the digital gauge cluster. The cockpit of the Audi A3 is driver-focused, featuring intuitively placed controls and a comfortable driving position. Its power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support will provide personalized comfort to the driver.

The Audi A3 comes with a Virtual Cockpit, a fully digital 12.3-inch gauge cluster that can be customized to display various information. This has a speedometer, rpm meter, fuel meter, temperature gauge, trip meter, and indicators to show all other essential data. However, the older versions of the Audi A3 featured a hybrid gauge cluster with an analog speedometer and an rpm meter, accompanied by a small digital screen in the middle to show all other details directly in the driver's line of sight.

The 10.1-inch MMI touch display is the infotainment system, which supports voice commands and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It has a user-friendly operating system with sharp graphics and responsive touch controls. The center console also has a standard dual-zone automatic climate control system, allowing the driver and the front passenger to set individual temperature preferences. Additionally, several AC vents are in the back for the comfort of rear-seat passengers.

As for storage compartments, the Audi A3 offers a sizeable glove compartment, door pockets, several cupholders, and a center console storage bin. It also offers USB ports and wireless charging options in higher trims. It also has good headroom and legroom for both driver and passengers, ensuring each and every aspect of the interior of the A3 is designed to enhance the driving experience.

The Audi A3 offers a sporty yet comfortable driving experience enhanced with advanced safety features. It has precise and responsive steering, providing excellent feedback and confident maneuvering on city and winding roads. The MacPherson suspension system in the front and the multi-link suspension system in the back provide a balanced and comfortable driving experience by absorbing bumps and road imperfections. With a turning radius of 11 meters, the Audi A3 is easy to maneuver in parking lots, U-turns, and other tight spaces.

Selectable driving modes such as comfort, dynamic, sports, and individual allow drivers to customize the driving experience to their preferences. It also provides a quiet cabin even at higher speeds, enhancing comfort and calmness during longer journeys. Even though it does not have 360° cameras, the vehicle itself offers good visibility despite its lower seating position.

If we consider the safety features of the vehicle, it generally comes with options such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning system, and a rearview camera. It has sensors all over its exterior for blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic alerts. These systems provide additional safety by assisting with maintaining safe distances and alerting drivers to potential hazards. The Audi A3 is typically equipped with a comprehensive airbag system that includes front, side, curtain, and knee airbags for both the driver and front passenger.

With its responsive steering, smooth transmission, and comprehensive safety technologies, the Audi A3 provides a satisfying and secure driving experience in the compact luxury sedan segment.

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