Audi seems to have
given up on camouflaging its 2020 A3 prototypes, giving us the best look yet at
the upcoming premium compact car. Our spy photographers have
captured two next-generation A3 prototypes in black paint wearing almost no
disguise. If you look closely, you’ll see that only the headlights and
taillights have some black tape applied on them, but that does little to
disguise their shapes.
The chrome trim underlining the car’s waistline is
probably the biggest novelty, but other than that, the new A3 looks clean and a
bit more dynamic than its predecessor thanks to a lower, wider body. In the
photos we can also see that each prototype rides on different alloy wheels: a
five-spoke design that seems like the base version (probably a 16-inch) and a
sportier double-spoke rim (likely a 17- or 18-inch).
As previous spy shots have shown, the interior
adopts a more dramatic design with an edgy dashboard featuring a big digital
instrument panel and equally generously-sized central display. Expect new trims
and colors, as well as the latest driver assistance systems.
As before, the A3 will share the platform with the
VW Golf, in this case the MQB Evo architecture which allows for mild hybrid and
plug-in hybrid powertrains alongside the usual assortment of turbocharged
gasoline and diesel engines. As with the Golf, there won’t be an all-electric
version, as Audi will launch a standalone compact EV at a later date.
The new premium compact hatch will reportedly debut
at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show and go on sale shortly after in five-door guise.
A sedan and a high-riding hatch, as well as S3 and RS3 performance variants,
will follow, while a CLA-rivaling four-door coupe is said to be on the cards
too.
