With the fourth-generation Audi A3 pressing on since its release four years ago, the German carmaker felt like now was the right time to give the hatchback a mid-life facelift alongside a host of new features.
We begin with the front end, which now boasts a frameless front grille that is flatter and wider, flanked by newly styled side air intakes. Changes have also been made to the rear by means of a redesigned bumper and a new diffuser inspired by the RS3.
As a bit of fun, the A3 now features up to four selectable daytime running light signatures which can be chosen in the multi-media display inside.
Speaking of the interior, alterations have been made to the design of the gear selector, air vents, and fabric inlays. The standard equipment has also been upgraded on the facelift A3, with a multifunction leather steering wheel, ambient lighting, and a front centre armrest included at no extra cost.
Smack bang in the middle of the dash is a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, blasting audio into the cabin through a new Sonos sound system. There’s also a standard wireless phone charger, two USB-C ports up front and another two at the back, as well as the ability to download third-party apps on the infotainment system.
Customers in Europe are able to purchase additional functions for their vehicle on the myAudi app even after they take delivery of their car, including adaptive cruise control assist, high-beam assist, and dual-zone air conditioning. Each of these functions can be “booked” for one month, six months, one year, three years, or permanently.
The facelift A3 also comes with various driver assistance and safety features from the factory, including collision avoidance and turn assist, lane departure warning, and more.
While specification has yet to be outlined for New Zealand, the updated hatchback will feature a selection of drivetrains in Europe. These include a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with mild hybrid assistance that makes 110kW and 250Nm of torque in the ’35 TFSI’, and a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel four-cylinder producing 110kW and 360Nm in the ’35 TDI’.
Both aforementioned engines are mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox, while other petrol and diesel engines will be made available for the facelift A3 later this year. A plug-in hybrid variant is also set to join the range at the end of 2024 as well.
While the new Audi A3 is offered in both Sedan and Sportback form, it’ll also be sold in a raised-up and more rugged body style under the ‘allstreet’ nameplate in Europe only.
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