Presented online at a streaming press
conference that should have taken place at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show, the
fourth generation A3 retains the familiar shape from previous generations, but
has embraced more characterful if not convoluted design language and lines.
The front end follows the themes from
Audi’s latest models sporting sharper headlights with LED DRLs, a more muscular
bonnet that ends in a straight line above the new honeycomb grille, and
prominent side air intakes.
The front fenders have been narrowed but
the rear shoulderline is bulkier, ending with the bumper that incorporates air
outakes and slimmer taillights. The diffuser is now more discreet and doesn’t
hold on to the tailpipes anymore, as these are hidden away. The car has similar
overall proportions and the boot has a capacity of 380-1,200 liters, depending on the position of the rear seats.
Opening the door reveals a completely new
dashboard panel, with air vents on the driver’s side that have a very
Lamborghini-ish feel. The free-standing infotainment screen has been replaced
with a unit incorporated in the dashboard while the HVAC control panel is new.
The car features the Audi Virtual Cockpit digital dials, which will be
available as an option, an available head-up display and a newly styled
steering wheel with buttons for the voice commands, music volume and menu
controls.
The center console hosts the 12V charge
port and electronic handbrake button that has been moved closer to the
gearshift lever. There are two cup holders between the front seats and another
cubby for storing the smartphone in front of the gear stick. The door cards can
be partially wrapped, depending on the specification, in different-style
leather trim, like the seats and other touchable surfaces. Creating a more
pleasant environment is the ambient lighting.
In Europe, the new A3 will be launched
with three engine choices: the 1.5-liter TFSI petrol with 150 PS and the 2.0-liter TDI diesel, making 116 PS and 150 PS. Front-wheel drive will be standard at first, with the output
being challened to the wheels via a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic
transmission. More powertrains will be added to the lineup, as well as versions
packing the permanent Quattro all-wheel drive system.
You may want to choose an engine option
with at least 150 PS, as that’s the only way to get the four-link rear axle
suspension. This can be enhanced with adaptive damping, which drops the body by
10 mm, while the sport suspension, which is standard with the S Line
exterior and optional without it, makes the ride firmer and shaves 15 mm from the ground clearance.
Audi will start accepting orders for the
new-gen A3 Sportback in most European countries this month, with deliveries to
commence in early May. Pricing for the petrol model starts at € 28,900
(US$ 32,087). Early buyers will get the A3 Sportback Edition One, with exclusive
features such as darkened Matrix LED headlights, matte platinum grey exterior
attachments and titanium grey 18-inch wheels, alongside the front sports seats,
aluminum inlays and stainless steel pedals in the cockpit.
