Audi has revealed an updated version of the A3, with changes to the exterior and interior, an enhanced level of standard equipment and the addition of new technology inside and out. The updates apply to the five-door A3 Sportback and the four-door Audi A3 Saloon and first Irish deliveries are expected later in 2024.
Wider-looking design
Though sheet-metal changes are few and far between on the revised A3, the front and rear have been refreshed. The new radiator grille is wider and flatter for a start, with a less fussy internal design and no frame. A smoother four-ring Audi badge sits higher up than before and the apron/bumper below has been restyled, too. This is particularly noticeable in the S line car shown here, which also features a new diffuser-like rear bumper design.
The A3's headlights have been redone too, though the big news there is the switchable daytime running light signature. The 24-pixel elements are in three rows in each of the lights, allowing owners to choose from four different looks through the MMI infotainment system. The signature of the rear lights has been tweaked, as well.
New paint colours have been added to the palette, too, including metallic District Green, Ascari Blue and Progressive Red, along with matte-finish Daytona Grey.
More tech inside
Evolution is the name of the game inside the updated Audi A3. The drive selector for the S tronic automatic gearbox is new - though familiar from other Audis - and the centre console has been redesigned to incorporate an integrated armrest across the line-up. A Sonos sound system is now fitted, there is a new design of air vent and extensive use of ambient lighting as well. The latter includes laser-cut fabric door panels that allow light through in different segments. There are also new fabric decorative inlays on the dashboard in either 100 per cent recycled polyester or suede-like Dinamica. This can be found on the door panels and seats in some versions of the A3.
Although Irish specifications for the updated A3 have yet to be confirmed, the car is set to come with a minimum level of equipment including a three-spoke, leather-trimmed steering wheel with 'multifunction plus', rear parking sensors, Audi pre sense front, collision avoidance and turn assist, a lane departure warning system and air conditioning, as well as the armrest and ambient light package mentioned above.
Owners will have the option to add more features even after they've taken delivery of their A3 by using the integrated app store or the 'myAudi' app. Options - which can be activated for one month, six months, one year, three years, or permanently - include 'MMI navigation plus including Audi connect services', smartphone interface (i.e. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), adaptive cruise control (featuring a new assisted lane change function), high-beam assist and enhanced air conditioning titled 'two-zone comfort air conditioning'. The availability of this service has not yet been confirmed for Ireland.
Familiar engine line-up
Petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid A3s will be available, along with a significantly upgraded Audi S3 high-performance model. The A3 35 TFSI uses a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine assisted by mild-hybrid technology and in 150hp guise is paired with a seven-speed, dual-clutch 'S tronic' automatic gearbox. A six-speed manual transmission will also be offered. The A3 35 TDI diesel also makes 150hp and is bolted to the same S tronic auto, while an entry-level diesel engine making 116hp is also on the cards.
Irish pricing and launch date for the new Audi A3 have yet to be announced.