After more than four years, the Audi A3 Sportback has been refreshed in appearance and technology. Audi tackled a lot of small things. And the arrival of a new version is a nice surprise.
The Audi A3’s old base engine, a 1.0-liter three-cylinder with 110 hp, is gone, replaced by a more mature 1.5-liter four-cylinder with 116 hp, coupled to a manual 6-speed gearbox, the Audi A3 30 TFSI. It is also available as a mild hybrid with a 7-speed automatic, but the power remains the same.
The next step on the engine ladder is the 1.5-liter four-cylinder with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, 150 hp and 250 Nm that we drove. These can be temporarily increased, thanks to a boost function of up to 9 kW (12 hp) and 50 Nm. A plug-in hybrid will follow at the end of 2024.
On the outside, Audi made some clever adjustments. The grille is flatter and wider and the headlights have four different signatures for the daytime running lights. At the back, the renewed Audi A3 can be recognized by its modified rear bumper.
Take out your wallet
The interior of the Audi A3 was also swept clean, resulting in a new center tunnel with a new ‘lever’ (it’s more of a shifter) for the S Tronic. The three-spoke steering wheel is standard, as is the virtual cockpit, the wireless phone charger and the air conditioning. For air conditioning with two climate zones, you have to pay extra in a modern way. This can
on demand via MyAudi-app.
Navigation functions, connect services, adaptive cruise control and a high beam assistant are also only available as options, most on demandThe advantage is that you can also choose the functions for a specific period: for example, extended air conditioning only in the summer.
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Once you’ve recovered from Audi’s surcharge policy, the Audi A3 Sportback is simply a wonderfully driving car. In the 35 TFSI S Tronic, you wonder why you need more power. We briefly cross the border, enthusiastically floor the accelerator on the autobahn and before we know it are already above 200 km/h. No pain at all.
“The steering is precise, without being too nervous from the centre position; typical Audi.”
The small electric motor, which supports the four-cylinder in a fast sprint, makes a useful contribution. An acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds seems realistic to us and we also have no doubts about the top speed of 226 km/h stated by Audi.
The Audi engineers are masters at tuning the chassis precisely so that comfort never suffers during your sporty escapades. In bends, the steering is precise, without reacting too nervously from the center position. Typical Audi steering.
Verrassing: Audi A3 Allstreet
Then the fun surprise: a brand new Allstreet version (the yellow car). This Audi A3 has 3 cm more ground clearance, a honeycomb grille, larger wheels and plastic trim for an adventurous look. Still, the ride comfort is surprisingly good. It is available as a 35 TFSI, but unfortunately not with four-wheel drive. A detachable tow bar and an electrically operated tailgate are optionally available.
Audi A3 Sportback test conclusion
The Audi A3 Sportback starts its second life well thanks to numerous small improvements. The performance is top, the comfort is excellent and the driving characteristics are at a high level. Unfortunately, that also applies to the price … (from 38,552 euros).
Read the full review of the Audi A3 Sportback in Auto Review 07/2024.
Source: www.autoreview.nl
