Previous Audi A3 is one of the best cars in its class, and minor changes were made to 2016 did nothing to divert high status. The interior is smart, hi-tech, good repair and relaxed driving dynamics make it a fantastic all-round, and this new 1.0 TFSI models look good too, but some rivals that bit more enjoyable.
Need to know:
- Revised Audi A3 gets smart styling, new engines and an additional kit
- The new 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbo engine produces 113bhp, emits 107g / km
- On sale now, with prices likely to start at less than £ 20,000
Audi has added a small ornaments, smart technology and a pair of new engines for one of the most successful models, humble A3.
It may not grab the headlines quite like self-driving R8 or insanely fast new five-cylinder TT RS; but the A3 is equally important.
With some refreshing premium car rivals of their own families in recent months, including the Mercedes A-Class and the BMW 1 Series is late for tweaking Audi A3, but a small update.
The news, beyond the subtle styling revisions and a more generous standard spec, is a pair of new petrol engine. One is the powerful 2.0-liter borrowed from the new A4, and the second is that we are testing here, three-cylinder turbo petrol which is a new entry-point into the range A3, with just 113bhp.
trim levels carried over from the previous, with four to choose from: SE, SE Technik, Sport or path S. Price has increased by around £ 500 in the range, but expect the 1.0-liter to cost less than £ 20,000 in SE - so it is not A3 still impressed with such a small engine?
How does it feel?
Amazingly fun. We've tried this machine chirpy in the small A1, and found it a bit noisier than ideal, but it works well here. You can only really know it was missing cylinder if you stamp hard on the throttle, and it should strain the capacity of small to keep.
True performance, a straight line is quite relaxed, and even with kerbweight slim (only in three-door manual 1,150kgs form) it feels very weapons on German autobahn we tested it on.
However, where it really matters, nipping around town, a short drive on a country road and cope with congested roads, the new A3 is more than up to the task. 1.0 TFSI has a shade more power than the old 1.2 but - thanks to the turbo - a big slug of extra torque.
Which makes it perfect for city driving, and while it can get a little vocal when it worked, it was declared a smooth, unobtrusive and easy to drive. Optional seven-speed S tronic gearbox fitted to our test car helped make things more relaxed behind the wheel, without hesitation between change and change fast manual as well.
The rest of the driving experience compliments this engine and gearbox combination is very good. There is a different drive modes, to flip through, but do not change the basic character of this A3.
It felt very grown-up, and drive well, with accurate steering. Standard 'Dynamic' nice and supple suspension settings, with little body lean in and out of tight corners, but gentle, smooth.
You can choose to lose up to 25mm free, but even the Audi engineers say it is more about improving the appearance of improving handling balance, and should be avoided.
In the classy, understated cabin, there was some mild cosmetic changes, the new complex ventilation air, upholstered chairs and wheel optional 'Sport' steering - but it still looks and feels smart built. There are some new toys to play with though, if your pockets are deep enough.
The first is 'Virtual Cockpit' was first seen in the TT, and optional on the new A4. It replaces the call with a digital display 12.3-inch TFT display, and means the driver can whiz through the navigation, infotainment and driving settings without taking their eyes off the road, or remove their hands from the steering wheel.
It is a brilliant system, and fit in a modern cabin, but, predictably, comes at a price. You can only fit into Sport and S line models, and only as part of a package of technology, costs £ 1,395.
Cool new features of other, again unfortunately only available as part of Driver Assistance which cost more frightening £ 1,950, the Traffic Assist, which uses a variety of security systems, including cruise control and lane warning departure for adaptive brake, steer and go to your when you are stuck in traffic, at speeds of up to 37mph.
Practicality is very good, with the five-door A3 Sportback provides more than enough room for four adults to sit comfortably, and large, well shaped 380-liter boot that fits premium rivals.
Should I buy one?
This entry-level 1.0 TFSI make a strong case for itself, with prices likely to slip below the standard £ 20,000 in SE trim. This is a highlight in an excellent range that has something for everyone.
It is faster and quieter than the more popular 1.6 TDI, returning over 60mpg in the official test and emits just 107g / km over 17-inch wheels. As standard it also comes with Xenon lamps, cruise control and automatic lights and wipers multi-function steering wheel.
It needs to go to spec above to get sat-nav for the standard 6.5-inch infotainment screen, but we will be careful to avoid some of the pricier options, which can quickly make the A3 too expensive.
Key facts:
- Model: Audi A3 Sportback 1.0 TFSI Sport
- Price: £ 21,000 (est)
- Engine: 1.0-liter gasoline turbo 3cyl, seven-speed automatic
- Power / torque: 113bhp, 148lb ft
- 0-62mph: 9.9 seconds
- Top speed: 128mph
- Economy: 60.1mpg
- CO2 / BIK tax liability: 107g / km / 18%
- boot space with the seats up / down: 380/1220 liter
Also Consider:
BMW 1 Series
Also recently updated, 1 Series is not as classy, hi-tech or smooth as A3, but with a rear-drive chassis, it is better to encourage
Volkswagen Golf
Sitting on the same platform as the A3, Golf is a better value, but not fancy, and with a quiet picture that is not for everyone
Mercedes A-Class
looks bold and large cabin design provides a bag A-Class from the desire, but it was too noisy, assertive and expensive to recommend
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