The Audi A3 sedan, which skipped the 2021 model year, is back for 2022 with updated styling, new technology, an even more economical engine, and a mild hybrid system.
In This Article...
The A3 Sportback will Audi bring it back?
The Q2 will be Audi’s last small crossover because it will be withdrawn after just one generation. Due to the Four Rings’ preference for larger, more expensive vehicles, the A1 supermini will meet the same end. What happens to the A3 now? The CEO of Ingolstadt, Markus Duesmann, has stated that the tiny car will eventually replace the A1 and Q2 as the entry-level model in the lineup.
“The A3 or its replacement will likely serve as the entry level when it comes to smartphones. So, I can assure you that we will be delivering a variety of automobiles starting with the A3 class.”
The last sentence of his statement implies that more than one model will be offered. It’s not clear if he meant the Sportback and Sedan, or if he meant one of the two body types when coupled with the Q3. Given that the recently revealed Cupra Terramar and the mechanically similar next-generation Q3 will be produced at the same Gyr plant in Hungary, there is unquestionably a crossover in this market.
Audi A3 Sportback 45 TFSI e
Although the head of Audi gave no specifics regarding the A3’s future, our reasoning is that it will only be sold as an EV. The German luxury company has already disclosed that its final new ICE-powered vehicle would debut in 2025. The current fourth-generation A3 was released in May 2020, therefore it will continue to be produced until roughly 2027. By that time, all newly released Audi vehicles will only be electric.
Archival Mercedes will reduce its compact lineup from seven to four, and according to a recent rumor, some of BMW’s small ICE-powered vehicles may be in danger. The German triumvirate seems to be increasingly shifting their attention to larger vehicles since, despite having lower sales, they have far higher profit margins.
Is a new A3 being released by Audi?
The tiny four-door Audi A3 from 2023 has a ton of high-end amenities, nimble handling, and potent performance. The A3 condenses much of the lineup’s tech-focused ethos into a smaller, more affordable vehicle as the entry point to the Audi brand. Among its entry-luxury competitors, such as the Acura Integra and the BMW 2-series Gran Coupe, it is a preferred option. The A3’s cabin is small but equipped with a sizable infotainment screen, a digital gauge cluster, as well as additional comfort and luxury elements. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 201 horsepower as standard, and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive technology is an option. The more potent S3 is worth a look for anyone looking for even more thrills in their tiny luxury car; we review that model separately.
Will there be an Audi A3 in 2022?
The three trim levels of the Audi A3 car for 2022 are Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. Due to its high level of equipment, the A3 Premium, which has a starting price of $34,945 (plus $1,045 freight), isn’t an entry-level vehicle in the conventional sense. It boasts a panoramic sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, and front seats with 8-way power adjustments and 4-way power lumbar support. One of the common safety systems is lane-departure warning.
Functional enhancements include the Audi Digital Cockpit Plus with its 12.3-inch instrument panel, head-up display, Audi’s MMI Navigation Plus with real-time traffic, and Bang & Olufsen audio in the top-of-the-line Audi A3 Prestige ($42,245).
The mid-range A3 Premium Plus Quattro, which has a base price of $39,200 and a destination fee of $1,045 for a total base of $40,245, is the topic of this driving review. The test car included shiny white paint ($595), the Black Optic Sport package ($850), and an 18-inch wheel package ($800) in addition to the Premium Plus features that are standard, like as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, wireless device charging, and other amenities. $42,490 was the total sticker price.
The 2022 Audi A3 is offered in front-drive or Quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, with the AWD versions costing an extra $2,000 on each specification. The Black Optic Sport option has a modified suspension that reduces ride height by 15 mm, as well as black exterior ornamentation. It necessitates the purchase of the optional all-season tires and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Audi produces the A3 for 2021?
The A3 is undergoing significant upgrades, although they won’t be visible until the 2022 model year. Yes, the 2021 Audi A3 won’t be available in the United States. The new Audi A3, which will arrive at dealers by the end of 2021, will not appeal to buyers; instead, the 2020 Audi A3 will do so.
What caused the Audi A3 to be retired?
Audi India deleted the A3 and the Q3 from its official website at the beginning of the year. The A3 was the most cheap model from the German automaker’s lineup in the Indian market, while the Q3 was one of the best-selling models. The A3 and Q3 were not BS6 ready, which is why Audi terminated the models.
The cost of the Audi A3 in 2021.
Audi’s line of high-quality products has a lot going for them, but pricing is not one of their strong suits. Audi vehicles typically have higher price tags, ranging from $50,000 to $130,000, making them unaffordable for the average buyer. Up until now, that is.
Due to its affordable starting price, the 2021 Audi A3 will be the most accessible Audi vehicle to date. With a base MSRP of $34,295 at the moment, it is a reasonably priced and competitive choice in its category. The A3 is today even more inexpensive because to the numerous rebates, discounts, and cash-back bonuses offered by Audi. Although it’s impossible to forecast what will be on offer when the 2021 model debuts, any offer will bring the already-competitive pricing down.
Is the Audi A3 Sportback a reliable vehicle for families?
“There are many positive aspects of the Audi A3 Sportback. It features a gorgeous exterior, an excellent interior that is aging nicely, and plenty of standard equipment for the price. With a variety of effective gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid engines, it’s also a blast to drive.”
Those seeking a hatchback with a little more status than a Ford Focus frequently choose the 2013 Audi A3 Sportback. The A3 is not more expensive to operate than less “posh” options, which is excellent news for used purchasers. Additionally, a decent one doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Although all A3 Sportbacks are well-equipped, the S line and Black Edition vehicles stand out due to their aggressive styling and glitzy alloy wheels. The entry-level SE and SE Technik models are a great choice if you don’t care about them; they offer the majority of the features you want and, thanks to their basic suspension and smaller alloy wheels, drive a little better.
The Volkswagen Golf, SEAT Leon, and Skoda Octavia are just a few of the Volkswagen Group vehicles that share engines with the A3 Sportback. This implies that in addition to the standard selection of gasoline and diesel engines, the A3 Sportback e-tron is a plug-in hybrid. Catchy.
As long as you stay away from the larger 1.8- and 2.0-litre petrol engines, all of the engines are smooth and inexpensive, and servicing costs shouldn’t be any higher than a Volkswagen Golf. Avoid the S tronic automatic gearbox as they can be problematic in comparison to the reliable manual.
The A3 Sportback has a very traditional exterior, but its interior is just outstanding and still looks contemporary today. A smart 7.0-inch media system that was quite the party piece back in its day glides electrically out of the dash. A more recent example introduced in May 2016 is required if you want features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This update also added the optional Virtual Cockpit digital instruments, as well as a somewhat updated appearance (though it’s hard to discern thanks to features like a more angular front grille and altered headlights). This is great; it looks incredibly classy and adds a particular touch to the A3 Sportback’s interior.
Of course, the A3 Sportback is a more sensible option than the three-door model. It performs admirably compared to the opposition. Its cabin (and boot) are about the same size as that of a Mercedes-Benz A-Class or a BMW 1 Series. Although the A3 Sportback’s rear seats are suitable for occasional usage and feature Isofix points for child seats, families may wish to consider something a little larger.
In essence, the A3 Sportback is a fantastic small family car with a luxurious cabin and a ton of standard features.
Is the Audi A3 Sportback right for you?
The Audi A3 Sportback is a great option if you’re searching for a small family vehicle but want something that feels a little more special than a Volkswagen Golf.
It has two more doors, a little larger boot, and a variety of engines, making it more practical than the original Audi A3. The A3 Sportback is a wonderful alternative for people who don’t want a car that is too huge, but if you have a family to transport, you may want to look at something a little bigger like an Audi Q3 or A4.
What’s the best Audi A3 Sportback model/engine to choose?
When the A3 Sportback first came out, the diesel engines were the most popular, demonstrating the model’s appeal to drivers of work cars who put a lot of miles on their vehicles.
They do fit the car well; in particular, the 2.0-liter offers a ton of torque and offers a comfortable (and cost-effective) driving experience. Diesel engines, on the other hand, don’t particularly enjoy making numerous short trips and spending a lot of time in town centers.
Buy gasoline if you don’t travel a lot of miles. The 1.4-liter (and later 1.5-liter) petrol engine works well with the vehicle, providing reasonable performance at moderate operating costs. Additionally, you don’t need to search for a high trim level to find an excellent A3 Sportback. We recommend the SE and SE Technik variants because they are more cheap and come equipped with better comfort features like standard suspension and smaller alloy wheels.
What other cars are similar to the Audi A3 Sportback?
If you’re contemplating the A3 Sportback, the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class are likely also on your list of options. The 1 Series is a good driving car in our opinion, but the A3’s interior is more modern.
While the Mercedes-Benz was new, it never truly struck the mark, and that is still true today. Along with more conventional hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Golf, Mazda 3, or Ford Focus, you might also think about out-of-the-box alternatives like the Volvo V40 or Lexus CT.
Is an estate automobile an Audi A3 Sportback?
Which model you choose will always depend on your particular preferences, but all three are undeniably stylish options and aren’t as divisive as other competitors, like as the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes A-Class. The A3 hatchback has a three-door layout that gives it a more coupe-like appearance similar to a Volkswagen Scirocco, making it the vehicle with the most dynamic appearance. Updated LED lights are also included in the most recent facelifted version, which will help you stand out even more on the road.
The A3 Sportback is without a doubt the most useful model, and its estate-like rear end gives away how much cargo space it can hold. Despite this, it avoids the dowdy appearance of estate cars of a comparable size. The Saloon looks better for emulating the larger A4 in terms of appearance. This is one of the few little saloons that is actually appealing because to its neat size and stylish appearance. All three are available with the S-Line option from Audi, which includes extra sporting features and bigger alloy wheels.
Is buying an Audi A3 worthwhile?
I recently purchased a 2020 model A3 with 5000 miles on the odometer, but after finding too many unrepairable electrical issues, I decided to return the vehicle. It was replaced with a comparable vehicle with fewer miles on the odometer, and a few months later the second vehicle was brought back to the shop with a new set of serious electrical issues (it is currently undriveable). It will be at the dealer for at least two weeks as they ponder their options and wait for parts to arrive from Germany. You decide if the A3 is a highly unreliable automobile or if I’m simply unlucky.
Rear wiper fire
- 2006
- 1600
- Manual
- Petrol
- Hatchback
- 3
I bought a used Audi A3 eight months ago. At the time, I though I was buying a nice, dependable car for a higher than average price. However, today, the rear wiper developed a mind of its own and caught fire, ruining my inside. This appears to be a typical mistake, according to an online search. Get a used Audi instead, is my recommendation.
Audi A3
- 2013
- 1800
- Automatic
- Diesel
- 4
It operates nicely and is quite simple to drive. The automobile has proven to be highly dependable and has outstanding fuel efficiency, especially on long trips. However, I have had greater mileage with a pair of tires on other vehicles I have owned. Service frequency helps to cut expenditures.
It is still pretty excellent even though it is not as comfortable as other of the automobiles I have had. The hatchback facility offers a lot of versatility and has more than enough capacity.
The only complaint I would make is that the front windscreen wipers’ intermittent speed and frequency are both too high.
I cant believe I am an Audi driver, but hey-ho!
- 2011
- 5
In 2013, I purchased my Audi A3 from a car dealership. I don’t usually go to these sites because I never buy new automobiles and always buy my older cars from small dealers that I know and trust for under $3,000 and over the course of 5 years. I used to scream at Audi drivers for always catching up to you and speeding through intersections; now I am one of them! and have been doing so for at least four years. Although a little “bouncy” on country roads, it is still a terrific car to drive and I’m not convinced the traction control makes much of a difference there. Additionally, the car isn’t the most economical to operate: insurance is a bit pricey, the annual car tax is 200 (ouch! ), the fuel efficiency is 40 mph on a good day, but for non-highway trips, it’s closer to 30-35 mpg. The inside and fixtures, as well as the factory-installed 8-speaker audio, are excellent. My only complaint is that there isn’t much storage space in the front. A full set of golf clubs won’t quite fit in the boot (you’ll undoubtedly need to take the 3 wood and driver out of the bag!).
BTW – Be careful not to sit on the key fob when, say, inside the house (it could be compressed in your pocket), but still within range of the car, as this could trigger ALL OF THE WINDOWS to open entirely, leaving your car open to the elements and any nearby “tea-leaves” and opportunists. This has happened to me a few times, however it might not be a problem with devices made after 2013.
El Rapido
- 2016
- 1400
adore this vehicle The finest Audi I’ve owned in 25 years as an owner is an SLine with a 1.4 cylinder on Demand engine.
Excellent to drive yet has many small flaws:
1. When utilizing cruise control, there is nowhere to place your right foot.
2. The media center’s awkward design makes it difficult to use
3. The car’s interior has very limited storage capacity.
4. A little boot
Very reliable car!
2005
Had the car from new, had regular servicing, and experienced no significant issues. I’m 84, so this is definitely going to be my last car! If I were to replace it, I would choose an Audi ( probably aA1 auto)
Great fun and practical for a convertible
- 2009
- Convertible
- 2
I am incredibly happy with the A3 Cabriolet. Despite not being a petrolhead, I do value my car’s performance. As long as I don’t put too much pressure on the accelerator, I can utilize higher ratios at low speeds to maximize fuel efficiency, but if I need to change down and put more force behind it, I get an immediate and gutsy response. It has been serviced by Audi (for a cost of just approximately 160 for each 10,000-mile oil change service), I fill it up with respectable fuel (often Shell, but occasionally V-Power), and it has good tires (Michelin Pilot Sport 4s currently). The soft top can be raised or lowered in about 11 seconds, and if necessary, it may be done while driving slowly. The boot has plenty of area and the roof doesn’t obstruct it, despite being a little difficult to access. Although a tad narrow, the S-Line seats up front are pretty comfy, and I had no trouble fitting 2 adults in the rear (not many convertibles I test-drove could do this). Down-sides? The wiring loom in the driver’s door hinge is prone to breaking the odd cable, which in my case results in the air-bag light turning on. I’m only now starting to suffer electrical troubles. Once I identified the problem, it was quickly repaired (though a little fiddly). The brake/ABS warnings occasionally flash like a Christmas tree on the dash, however restarting the engine fixes the problem. Although I haven’t found the cause of this problem yet, it only occurs every three months or so, and the garage hasn’t found any brake system problems, therefore I believe there may be another intermittent electrical problem. I don’t need to say that I enjoy driving!
Review of Audi A3
2008
This car is really fantastic in that it makes you a better, safer driver. I adore it and have been utterly enamored with Audis. Since I don’t now drive a diesel and never plan to, the catalytic converter controversy doesn’t affect me. I will most definitely purchase another vehicle, perhaps an A4, as this is easily the best vehicle I have ever driven. But an Audi it will always be!
Great car, safe and fun.
- 2010
- 1968
Compared to a Volvo of comparable size, the road noise surprised me. Traction is excellent with the adaptive Haldex four wheel drive, but I assume that the fuel economy is worse than with the front wheel drive sportback. 65 mpg above 40 in the city when the accelerator pedal is lightly depressed. usually 54 mpg.
To uncover the true driveability hidden beneath the surface of the stock mapping, consider an engine remap (which Audi does not support). To keep the same mpg but considerably more enjoyable, even more care is required.
Models with emissions problems have not yet been recalled as of October 2016! However, if you have remapped the engine, it is irrelevant.
Audi A3 TFSI Sport
The automobile runs well in traffic despite only having a 1400cc engine. Along with a variety of driving modes, from economy, which includes a free-wheel facility, to sport, which retains lower ratios until greater engine revs are reached, the 7 speed automatic transmission always seems to be in the correct gear for the conditions. Since the automobile was purchased on November 11, 2013, its overall fuel efficiency is 44 mpg, with highway driving achieving above 50 mpg. Depending on usage, the servicing intervals are rather generous, usually every 18 months, although the computer in the car decides when to do it. Although slightly harder than on the SE model, the sport suspension installed in my car is in no way uncomfortable. The automobile is very agile and fairly short (4.237m). The automobile has screen wipers and automated headlights.
A couple of things could be improved. Similar to many other recent models, the rear sight is poor, necessitating caution when reversing in parking lots, etc. When the brakes are removed while the car is in gear, the “creep” pace is a little faster than I prefer. The rear seats are not very easy to access, and as the center tunnel extends to the back seat, anyone sitting in the middle rear seat must straddle it.
- 2007
- 1900
Lively and fun, some minor drawbacks
- 2000
- Coupe
Unexpectedly quick and nimble for a little engine, enjoyable to drive, and dependable. Great operating expenses compared to my previous vehicle. There isn’t much storage in the cabin, the boot is a little on the small side, and the glove box is tiny. There is just one power outlet throughout the entire vehicle, making it necessary to use a large and uncomfortable splitter device in order to charge my phone and use my Satnav at the same time. Not the most attractive vehicle, kind of “average.”