The Audi A3 is a
subcompact executive/
small family car
The C-segment is the 3rd category of the European segments for passenger cars and is described as "medium cars". It is equivalent to the Euro NCAP "small family car" size class, and the compact car category in the United States.
In 2011, the C ...
(
C-segment
The C-segment is the 3rd category of the European segments for passenger cars and is described as "medium cars". It is equivalent to the Euro NCAP "small family car" size class, and the compact car category in the United States.
In 2011, the C- ...
) manufactured and marketed by the German automaker
Audi AG
Audi AG () is a German automotive manufacturer of luxury vehicles headquartered in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, Germany. As a subsidiary of its parent company, the Volkswagen Group, Audi produces vehicles in nine production facilities worldwide.
The o ...
since September 1996, currently in its fourth generation.
The first two generations of the Audi A3 were based on the
Volkswagen Group A platform
The Volkswagen Group A platform is an automobile platform shared among compact and mid-size cars of the Volkswagen Group.
It debuted in 1974 and was originally based on the engineering concept of the Volkswagen Golf Mk1, and is applicable to eit ...
, while the third-generation and fourth-generation A3 uses the
Volkswagen Group MQB platform
The Volkswagen Group MQB platform is the company's strategy for shared modular design construction of its transverse, front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout (optional front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout) automobiles. It was first introduced in t ...
.
First generation (''Typ'' 8L; 1996)
The original A3 (or ''Type'' 8L) was announced back in June 1995, but introduced first in the European market for more than year in September 1996, marking Audi's return to the production of smaller cars following the demise of the
Audi 50
The Audi 50 (known internally as the ''Typ'' 86) is a supermini economy car produced by German automaker Audi from 1974 to 1978, and sold only in Europe. Introduced two or three years after the Italian Fiat 127 and the French Renault 5, the model ...
in 1978. This was the first
Volkswagen Group
Volkswagen AG (), known internationally as the Volkswagen Group, is a German multinational automotive manufacturer headquartered in Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany. The company designs, manufactures and distributes passenger and commercial ...
model to use the "PQ34" or "A4"
platform
Platform may refer to:
Technology
* Computing platform, a framework on which applications may be run
* Platform game, a genre of video games
* Car platform, a set of components shared by several vehicle models
* Weapons platform, a system or ...
, bearing a close resemblance to the contemporary
Volkswagen Golf Mk4
The Volkswagen Golf Mk4 (or VW ''Type 1J'') is a compact car, the fourth generation of the Volkswagen Golf and the successor to the Volkswagen Golf Mk3. Launched in October 1997 for the 1998 model year, it was the best selling car in Europe in 2 ...
, which arrived a year later. Within three years, this platform was used for total of seven cars.
The A3 was initially available only with a three-door
hatchback body, to present a more sporty image than the Golf, in both
front and
four-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive, also called 4×4 ("four by four") or 4WD, refers to a two-axled vehicle drivetrain capable of providing torque to all of its wheels simultaneously. It may be full-time or on-demand, and is typically linked via a transfer cas ...
. The
inline four-cylinder engines were
transversely mounted. The Audi A3 was the eighth model in the Audi lineup to use five valves per cylinder. The dashboard was also used by the first generation
SEAT León and second generation
SEAT Toledo
The SEAT Toledo is a small family car produced by the Spanish manufacturer SEAT, part of Volkswagen Group. The Toledo name was first introduced to the SEAT line up in May 1991 being named after a Spanish city with the same name, with the fourt ...
.
The United Kingdom market first received the Audi A3 in November 1996.
In 1999 Audi expanded the range with the introduction of more powerful versions: a 1.8 turbo rated , and a 1.9
TDI diesel engine
The diesel engine, named after Rudolf Diesel, is an internal combustion engine in which ignition of the fuel is caused by the elevated temperature of the air in the cylinder due to mechanical compression; thus, the diesel engine is a so-ca ...
with
unit injector "Pumpe Düse" (PD) technology and
variable geometry turbocharger
Variable-geometry turbochargers (VGTs), occasionally known as variable-nozzle turbines (VNTs), are a type of turbochargers, usually designed to allow the effective aspect ratio of the turbocharger to be altered as conditions change. This is done ...
. The four-wheel-drive A3 1.8T
quattro used either the or engine, and the same
Haldex Traction
Haldex Traction is a manufacturer of intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, founded in Sweden. Since invention of Gen I in 1998, the company produced several generations of products licensed to and customized for some major automotive brands, ...
-based four-wheel-drive system as the
Audi S3
S3, S-3 or S03 may refer to:
Entertainment
* ''Si3'' (flim), originally titled ''S III'' and also known as ''Singam 3'', the third film in the ''Singam'' franchise
* '' Expedition to the Barrier Peaks'', code S3, a 1980 ''Dungeons & Dragons'' adv ...
and the
Audi TT. Also in 1999, Audi also introduced a five-door body.
In late 2000 the A3 range was revised with new headlights and rear lamps, other minor cosmetic changes, an improved interior, and the introduction of a six-speed
manual gearbox, on the 1.8 Turbo and the new 1.9 TDI.
Audi's
electronic stability control, traction-control, and brake force distribution computer became standard equipment in some countries.
Although the first-generation Audi A3 was replaced in Europe in 2003, the first generation model continued to be sold in some markets. Production of the first generation model stopped in Brazil in 2006.
Safety
Euro NCAP rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
[ Their evaluation concluded "the column lock, adjuster lever and bracket presented hazards in the knee impact area for the driver. These could cause high loads on his upper legs and damage to his knees." The A3 also provides almost no protection to pedestrians, giving it two stars out of a possible four.][
]
S3 (1999–2003)
Audi released the A3-derived Audi S3 in 1999, only as a three-door hatchback. The inline-four 20v 1.8 L turbocharged petrol engine
A petrol engine (gasoline engine in American English) is an internal combustion engine designed to run on petrol (gasoline). Petrol engines can often be adapted to also run on fuels such as liquefied petroleum gas and ethanol blends (such as ' ...
came in two versions: and . Early models (1999–2001) had . Later models (2001–2003) had variable valve timing
In internal combustion engines, variable valve timing (VVT) is the process of altering the timing of a valve lift event, and is often used to improve performance, fuel economy or emissions. It is increasingly being used in combination with var ...
and . The engine had a maximum of torque. This was the first time a small four-cylinder engine had been used in an Audi S-series car.
Although dubbed "quattro", the S3 uses a different four-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive, also called 4×4 ("four by four") or 4WD, refers to a two-axled vehicle drivetrain capable of providing torque to all of its wheels simultaneously. It may be full-time or on-demand, and is typically linked via a transfer cas ...
system. The Haldex Traction
Haldex Traction is a manufacturer of intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, founded in Sweden. Since invention of Gen I in 1998, the company produced several generations of products licensed to and customized for some major automotive brands, ...
coupling adjusts the bias of torque distribution from the front to rear axle as grip requirements change – most of the time it operates as a front-wheel drive.
The S3 was sold in Europe, Japan, Mexico, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
The S3 was given a facelift in 2002, where it was given one-piece headlights/indicator units, different front wings, rear lights clusters, and some minor upgrades to interior trim.
Standard features include xenon HID headlamp
A headlamp is a lamp attached to the front of a vehicle to illuminate the road ahead. Headlamps are also often called headlights, but in the most precise usage, ''headlamp'' is the term for the device itself and ''headlight'' is the term for ...
s with high pressure washers and auto levelers, front fog lamps, 17" "Avus" alloy wheel
In the automotive industry, alloy wheels are wheels that are made from an alloy of aluminium or magnesium. Alloys are mixtures of a metal and other elements. They generally provide greater strength over pure metals, which are usually much soft ...
s with 225/45R17 tyres, electrically adjustable Recaro
Recaro Holding, as the parent company of the Recaro Group, owns the Recaro brand and the independently operating companies Recaro Aircraft Seating (aircraft seats) based in Schwäbisch Hall and Recaro eGaming (gaming seats) based in Stuttgart, Germ ...
leather seats, climate control, alarm and electronic stability control with traction control
A traction control system (TCS), also known as ASR (from german: Antriebsschlupfregelung, lit=drive slippage regulation), is typically (but not necessarily) a secondary function of the electronic stability control (ESC) on production motor vehicle ...
.
Options include a Bose sound system, boot/trunk or in-dash mounted 6-disc CD changer
A CD player is an electronic device that plays audio compact discs, which are a digital optical disc data storage format. CD players were first sold to consumers in 1982. CDs typically contain recordings of audio material such as music or audi ...
, metallic paint
Metallic paint, also called metal flake or polychromatic, is a type of paint that is most common on new automobiles, but is also used for other purposes. Metallic paint can reveal the contours of bodywork more than non-metallic, or "solid" pain ...
, 18-inch 9-spoke RSTT wheels, glass sunroof, centre arm rest, privacy glass (B-pillar backwards), auto-dimming rear-view mirror, parking assist, luggage net, heated front seats, cruise control
Cruise control (also known as speed control, cruise command, autocruise, or tempomat) is a system that automatically controls the speed of a motor vehicle. The system is a servomechanism that takes over the throttle of the car to maintain a s ...
, aluminium door mirror casings and part leather/ Alcantara (blue/silver/yellow) combination seat coverings. These items are standard in some export markets.
Engines
The engines used are the same as those for many other cars in the Volkswagen Group
Volkswagen AG (), known internationally as the Volkswagen Group, is a German multinational automotive manufacturer headquartered in Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany. The company designs, manufactures and distributes passenger and commercial ...
.
Second generation (''Typ'' 8P; 2003)
Initial release
At the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, Audi launched the second generation of the A3, the ''Typ'' 8P, designed by Gary Telaak during 2000 (however, the final design was frozen in 2001). Originally launched only as a three-door hatchback with four-cylinder engines, it featured a new automobile platform (the PQ35
The Volkswagen Group A platform is an automobile platform shared among compact and mid-size cars of the Volkswagen Group.
It debuted in 1974 and was originally based on the engineering concept of the Volkswagen Golf Mk1, and is applicable to ...
platform), a redesigned and more spacious interior, new petrol engine
A petrol engine (gasoline engine in American English) is an internal combustion engine designed to run on petrol (gasoline). Petrol engines can often be adapted to also run on fuels such as liquefied petroleum gas and ethanol blends (such as ' ...
s with Fuel Stratified Injection
Gasoline direct injection (GDI), also known as petrol direct injection (PDI), is a mixture formation system for internal combustion engines that run on gasoline (petrol), where fuel is injected into the combustion chamber. This is distinct fro ...
(FSI), and standard six-speed manual gearboxes (except on the base 1.6 petrol and 1.9 diesel).
In mid-2003 the line was updated with two sports-oriented models, a 2.0 Turbo-FSI version rated , and a 3.2 L VR6 engine (for the first time) with . Haldex Traction
Haldex Traction is a manufacturer of intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, founded in Sweden. Since invention of Gen I in 1998, the company produced several generations of products licensed to and customized for some major automotive brands, ...
-based quattro on-demand four-wheel drive, and the S-Tronic semi-auto gearbox were introduced as options (quattro is standard on the VR6) on models with engines over .
In 2005 the "S line" trim level, offering new decorative elements, became available and the three-door A3 received the same front-end styling features as the Sportback model. For the first time, the A3 became available in the North American market, exclusively with the Sportback body, with the base 2.0 inline-four
A straight-four engine (also called an inline-four) is a four-cylinder piston engine where cylinders are arranged in a line along a common crankshaft.
The vast majority of automotive four-cylinder engines use a straight-four layout (with the e ...
FSI introduced in 2005 as a 2006 model, and the 3.2 VR6 Quattro following.
A3 Sportback (2004–2013)
The five-door "Sportback" model was introduced in June 2004. The A3 Sportback is longer than the base three-door body, and includes improved rear cabin space and a larger luggage compartment (370 litres). It also received the new "single frame" front grille originally introduced in the A8 W12, which was later adopted across the whole A3 range.
S3 (2006–2013)
In August 2006, Audi introduced the second generation S3. Offered in three- and five-door body styles, the second generation—''Typ'' 8P—S3 is powered by a modified and uprated Volkswagen Group
Volkswagen AG (), known internationally as the Volkswagen Group, is a German multinational automotive manufacturer headquartered in Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany. The company designs, manufactures and distributes passenger and commercial ...
-sourced 2.0-litre turbocharged FSI petrol engine
A petrol engine (gasoline engine in American English) is an internal combustion engine designed to run on petrol (gasoline). Petrol engines can often be adapted to also run on fuels such as liquefied petroleum gas and ethanol blends (such as ' ...
, with a maximum output of . As with all Audi S models
Audi S and RS models are a range of high performance versions of certain car models of the German automotive company Audi AG. These cars primarily focus on enhanced "sport" performance. Production of Audi "S" cars began in 1990 with the S2 Co ...
, the design was done in-house by quattro GmbH
Audi Sport GmbH, formerly known as quattro GmbH,[Audi-Mediacente ...](_blank)
. The engine features uprated high-performance pistons, revised boost/fuel mapping, increased turbocharger size ( KKK K04) and larger intercooler. The most powerful form of this engine, and quattro four-wheel drive, makes for a time of 5.5 seconds, and an electronically limited top speed of . Audi offers both six-speed manual and six-speed S-Tronic automatic transmissions with the S3.
The spring ratings and dampers were revised, along with the body kit. Like its predecessor, although badged a "Quattro" model, the S3 does not employ a Torsen
Torsen Torque-Sensing (full name Torsen traction) is a type of limited-slip differential used in automobiles.
It was invented by American Vernon Gleasman and manufactured by the Gleason Corporation. Torsen is a portmanteau of Torque-Sensing. ''TO ...
centre differential (as in other common Quattro models), but instead uses the Swedish Haldex Traction
Haldex Traction is a manufacturer of intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, founded in Sweden. Since invention of Gen I in 1998, the company produced several generations of products licensed to and customized for some major automotive brands, ...
system in its on-demand four-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive, also called 4×4 ("four by four") or 4WD, refers to a two-axled vehicle drivetrain capable of providing torque to all of its wheels simultaneously. It may be full-time or on-demand, and is typically linked via a transfer cas ...
transmission, due to the transverse engine
A transverse engine is an engine mounted in a vehicle so that the engine's crankshaft axis is perpendicular to the direction of travel. Many modern front-wheel drive vehicles use this engine mounting configuration. Most rear-wheel drive vehicles ...
layout.
Safety
Euro NCAP tested a second-generation Audi A3 with front airbags, side airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, and load limiters as standard. Despite Audi increasing the protection inside the car for the driver and passengers, pedestrian safety actually got 33% worse compared to the first generation and Euro NCAP gave criticism for the car offering virtually no protection at all on the front end and scoring just one star from a possible four. "A poor result for a new car" was the verdict given for pedestrian safety after the test.
2008 facelift
Audi introduced a number of changes to the A3 and S3 in 2008. These include revised nose and tail styling, with a modified grille and daytime running lights, common rail 2.0 TDI engines, seven-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission
A dual-clutch transmission (DCT) (sometimes referred to as a twin-clutch transmission) is a type of multi-speed vehicle transmission system, that uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets. The design is often similar to two separa ...
availability for the smaller non-U.S. engines, and optional "magnetic ride" adaptive shock absorbers. In addition, the range now includes an S3 Sportback model.
Also, a cabriolet version was introduced. It was similar in dimensions to the 3-door version, with a two-box design.
Audi A3 TDI Clubsport quattro (2008)
Audi A3 TDI Clubsport quattro is a concept car
A concept car (also known as a concept vehicle, show vehicle or prototype) is a car made to showcase new styling and/or new technology. They are often exhibited at motor shows to gauge customer reaction to new and radical designs which may or ...
unveiled in 2008. Based on the Audi A3 three-door, it is an approach by Audi
Audi AG () is a German automotive manufacturer of luxury vehicles headquartered in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, Germany. As a subsidiary of its parent company, the Volkswagen Group, Audi produces vehicles in nine production facilities worldwide.
Th ...
to address both performance and the environment.
The engine in the concept car is a turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel producing and . of torque. It produces per litre while meeting Euro 5 Diesel emission standards. It uses the quattro drive system with a six-speed manual transmission.
The chassis has Audi's Magnetic Ride Suspension system, lowering the vehicle from the base model. It also has ceramic front brakes, a four-link rear suspension and electro-mechanical servo assist for the rack and pinion steering.
Exterior modifications include the widening of the three-door's grill, modifying the odd, and enlarging air intakes. Bolt-on fender flares and a large rear spoiler have been added. The interior changes include sport seats and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.[
Audi claims performance of in 6.6 seconds with a top speed of . It is expected to get approximately .
]
RS 3 Sportback (2011–2012)
The Audi RS 3 is derivative of the A3 Sportback with a 5-cylinder, turbocharged engine rated at and , vermicular-graphite cast iron crankcase, seven-speed S tronic transmission with two automatic modes and one manual mode, Quattro on-demand four-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive, also called 4×4 ("four by four") or 4WD, refers to a two-axled vehicle drivetrain capable of providing torque to all of its wheels simultaneously. It may be full-time or on-demand, and is typically linked via a transfer cas ...
system, widened track to , MacPherson strut
The MacPherson strut is a type of automotive suspension system that uses the top of a telescopic damper as the upper steering pivot. It is widely used in the front suspension of modern vehicles, and is named for American automotive engineer Ear ...
in aluminum, lowered body by , 19-inch cast aluminum wheels in machine-polished titanium styling (optional black with a red rim flange) with 235/35 front and 225/35 rear tires, front and ventilated brake discs, aluminum brake disk covers, four-piston fixed calipers in high-gloss black with RS logos, electronic stabilization program with Sport mode, flared front fenders made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP), prominent sill panels and exterior-mirror casings in matte aluminum, roof spoiler, high-gloss black diffuser insert, two elliptical exhaust tailpipes on the left, black interior, sports seats upholstered in Nappa leather with silver contrasting stitching, inlays in Piano black finish or Aluminum Race colour, flat-bottomed leather multifunction sports steering wheel, choice of 5 body colors are available with an unlimited selection of custom paint finishes. Its acceleration is quoted as in 4.6 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of . Optional features included front bucket seats, roof rails in matte aluminum look, styling packages in black or matte aluminum.
First deliveries started in early 2011.
A3 Cabriolet Sport and S line Final Edition (2013–)
The A3 Cabriolet Sport Final Edition is a version of the A3 Cabriolet Sport model for the UK market, commemorating the end of the A3 Cabriolet's production run. It included Vienna leather upholstery, front seat heating, rear parking sensors, automatic headlight and wiper activation, cruise control, a Bluetooth mobile phone interface.
S line Final Edition is based on the A3 Cabriolet Sport Final Edition model, with 18-inch S line alloy wheel with a new five-segment spoke design, full Vienna leather upholstery, S line safety and entertainment features with xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lamps, DVD-based satellite-navigation, Audi Music Interface iPod connection, a BOSE sound system.
Engines
In January 2007, the naturally-aspirated 2.0 FSI was replaced by a new turbocharged 1.8 TFSI engine rated . It is available in front-wheel drive only.
In late 2007, Audi introduced a new 1.4 L TFSI engine for the A3, replacing the 1.6 L FSI engine, and a new diesel "e"-model. The "e"-model, Audi's equivalent of Volkswagen's BlueMotion, is available with the 1.9 L TDI engine, and offers a more ecological car, with a CO2 emission below 120 g/km.
Audi released two models of the A3 1.6 TDI for the European market. The first uses Audi's start/stop and energy recovery system, and produces . This engine achieves approximately . The second engine does not use the same efficiency systems and will produce will get . They went on sale in June 2009.
In 2009, the 1.6 L eight-valve petrol engine was replaced by a turbocharged 1.2 TFSI engine already found in VW's Polo and Golf models. This engine is rated at and , emitting 127 g/km of .
The A3 2.0 TDI clean diesel is a version of Audi's A3 2.0 TDI for the North American market, making it the second Audi TDI vehicle sold in North America, following the Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV made by the German manufacturer Audi, unveiled in September 2005 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Production of this seven-seater SUV began in the autumn of 2005 at the Volkswagen Bratislava Plant in ...
TDI in 2008. It is a FWD vehicle with S-Tronic transmission with Hill-hold assist, Sirius satellite radio, Leather seats and steering wheel, Auxiliary audio input, Dual-zone climate control, alloy wheels. The vehicle was unveiled at the 2009 North American International Auto Show. This US model would begin sale in the first quarter of 2010 as a 2010 model year vehicle.
In March 2011, the line-up was expanded with the introduction of a more powerful 2.0 TDI with .
The 2.0 TDI engine was included in the engines found by the United States Environmental Protection Agency to use software intentionally designed to turn off emission control systems except when undergoing emission testing. Models made from 2009 to 2015 were affected.
Third generation (''Typ'' 8V; 2013)
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show and went on sale in Europe in September 2012.
First vehicle using the flexible modular Volkswagen Group MQB platform
The Volkswagen Group MQB platform is the company's strategy for shared modular design construction of its transverse, front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout (optional front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout) automobiles. It was first introduced in t ...
, the third generation is available as a three-door hatchback, a five-door "Sportback", a four-door saloon to directly rival the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
The Mercedes-Benz CLA class is a series of luxury compact executive cars manufactured by Mercedes-Benz since 2013. The first generation was a four-door sedan based on the platform of the W176 A-Class and W246 B-Class compact cars, marketed as ...
, and a two-door Cabriolet.
The front suspension is a MacPherson strut
The MacPherson strut is a type of automotive suspension system that uses the top of a telescopic damper as the upper steering pivot. It is widely used in the front suspension of modern vehicles, and is named for American automotive engineer Ear ...
set-up while the rear utilizes torsion bar suspension (models with less than 150 PS) or multi-link rear suspension (models with 150 PS or more).
The features include:
* Multi-collision brake: Emergency braking function stops the car after the first impact, to prevent secondary collisions
*Multi Media Interface The Multi Media Interface (MMI) system is an in-car user interface media system developed by Audi, and was launched at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show on the Audi Avantissimo concept car. Production MMI was introduced in the second generation Audi A8 ...
MMI entertainment system (Tegra 3
Tegra is a system on a chip (SoC) series developed by Nvidia for mobile devices such as smartphones, personal digital assistants, and mobile Internet devices. The Tegra integrates an ARM architecture central processing unit (CPU), graphics proc ...
processor) with handwriting recognition
Handwriting recognition (HWR), also known as handwritten text recognition (HTR), is the ability of a computer to receive and interpret intelligible handwritten input from sources such as paper documents, photographs, touch-screens and other de ...
* 4G broadband internet
*adaptive cruise control
Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is an available cruise control advanced driver-assistance system for road vehicles that automatically adjusts the vehicle speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead. As of 2019, it is also called by 20 un ...
* Pre sense front/basic radar
Radar is a detection system that uses radio waves to determine the distance ('' ranging''), angle, and radial velocity of objects relative to the site. It can be used to detect aircraft, ships, spacecraft, guided missiles, motor vehicles, we ...
-guided collision avoidance system
* active lane assist
*side assist
The blind spot monitor or blind-spot monitoring is a vehicle-based sensor device that detects other vehicles located to the driver’s side and rear. Warnings can be visual, audible, vibrating, or Touch, tactile.
Vehicle blind spot, Blind spot ...
Early German models include 1.4 TFSI (122 PS), 1.8 TFSI (180 PS), and 2.0 TDI (150 PS). 1.2 TFSI (105 PS), 1.4 TFSI (140 PS), 1.8 TFSI quattro (180 PS), 1.6 TDI (105 PS), and 2.0 TDI quattro (150 PS) were added in 2013.
A3 1.2 TFSI (105 PS) was added to the UK market in 2013, followed by A3 1.4 TFSI (140 PS) in 2013.
For the 2020 model year, the vehicle is exclusively built at the Ingolstadt plant, as opposed to previous model years where sedans and convertibles were built at the Győr plant.
A3 Sedan (2013–2020)
The A3 Sedan includes a body wider and lower than that of the A3 Sportback. Other features include 16- to 18-inch-wheels (optional 19-inch wheels via quattro GmbH) and electronic stabilization control with electronic differential lock.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2013 New York Auto Show
The New York International Auto Show is an annual auto show that is held in Manhattan in late March or early April. It is held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. It usually opens on or just before Easter weekend and closes on the first S ...
.
The German model went on sale in late summer 2013. Early models include 1.4 TFSI (140 PS), 1.8 TFSI (180 PS), and 2.0 TDI (150 PS).
Delivery of the UK models began in autumn of 2013. Early models include 1.4 TFSI (140 PS), 1.8 TFSI (180 PS), and 2.0 TDI (150 PS).
In international markets like Pakistan, Audi has introduced it with a 1.2 TFSI engine. This has allowed Audi to bypass high import duties on larger displacement engines, offer the car at a competitive price, and become a leader in the imported luxury car segment. In Malaysia, the Audi A3 was launched in 2014 and sold as two models - a 1.4-liter with 7-speed ''S-Tronic'' automatic transmission, and a 1.8-liter with 6-speed DSG and Quattro all-wheel drive. The facelifted version has yet to be launched. In Singapore, the Audi A3 sedan and Sportback are currently available as 1.0-liter turbo models only.
A3 Cabrio (2013–2020)
The A3 cabriolet model was offered starting in 2014. It has a three-box body style and a larger boot than the previous model (320 litres versus 260).
A3 Sportback (2013–2020)
The Audi A3 Sportback includes a wheelbase over previous model, longer than that of the A3 and a front axle shifted forward by over the previous model. Other features include a choice of 13 body colours (three solid finishes, eight metallic finishes, and two pearl-effect finishes), an optional high-gloss package adding accents around the windows (standard with the Ambiente trim line), six-speed manual transmission (optional S-Tronic) for all engine models, 16 or 17-inch wheels depending on trim line (optional 18-inch wheels), Audi drive select (standard with Ambition) with optional S-Tronic, and optional electromagnetic damper control system.
German models went on sale in February 2013. Early models include 1.4 TFSI (122 PS), 1.8 TFSI (180 PS), 1.8 TFSI quattro (180 PS), and 1.6 TDI. 1.2 TFSI (105 PS), 1.4 TFSI (140 PS), 2.0 TDI (150 PS), 2.0 TDI quattro (150 PS), and 2.0 TDI (184 PS) were available in later date.
A3 Sportback g-tron (2013–2020)
It is a version of the A3 Sportback with 1.4 TFSI (110 PS) engine powered by compressed natural gas or Audi e-gas synthetic methane; gas tank made of gas-impermeable polyamide polymer, carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced polymer; and an electronic gas pressure regulator. The synthetic methane was produced by waste product from a nearby Werlte biogas
Biogas is a mixture of gases, primarily consisting of methane, carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide, produced from raw materials such as agricultural waste, manure, municipal waste, plant material, sewage, green waste and food waste. It is a ...
plant operated by power utility EWE.
A3 Sportback e-tron (2014–2018, 2020)
The plug-in hybrid concept car
A concept car (also known as a concept vehicle, show vehicle or prototype) is a car made to showcase new styling and/or new technology. They are often exhibited at motor shows to gauge customer reaction to new and radical designs which may or ...
was unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. In May 2013 Audi confirmed its decision to produce a plug-in hybrid version of the A3, the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron, which was scheduled for retail sales in Europe by late 2013, and by mid 2014 in the U.S. and the UK. The A3 e-tron shares the same plug-in hybrid powertrain used in both the Volkswagen Golf GTE
The Volkswagen Golf (Mk7) is a small family car (C-segment) produced by German automobile manufacturer Volkswagen, as the seventh generation of the Golf and the successor to the Golf Mk6. It was introduced in Berlin on 4 September 2012, before a ...
and Passat GTE. To charge the A3 e-tron, the Audi four rings logo is pulled along to reveal a charging socket.
The A3 Sportback e-tron is powered by a 1.4 L TSI gasoline engine that delivers and of torque, coupled with a electric motor, which is integrated into the car's six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, for a total combined output of and The plug-in hybrid has an 8.8 kWh battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of on the NEDC cycle, and a total of . The plug-in hybrid can reach a top speed of and can accelerate from 0- in 7.6 seconds. According to Audi the car has an average fuel efficiency of 188 mpg equivalent and emissions of 35 g/km.[
]
After some delays, the A3 Sportback e-Tron went on sale across Europe in August 2014. The first 227 units were registered in Germany in August 2014. , global sales totaled 12,994 units, of which, 12,945 units were registered in Europe,[ ''European Audi A3 e-tron sales totaled 1,154 units in 2014 and 11,791 in 2015. Sale figures as reported by JATO Dynamics.''] and 49 units in the United States, where deliveries began in December 2015.
Audi discontinued the A3 PHEV Sportback e-tron in Europe in November 2018. However, the model was briefly re-introduced at the end of 2019 for MY20, now called A3 Sportback 40 e-tron under Audi's new naming scheme. The revised A3 e-tron in the UK featured a different level of specification, losing the previously standard LED headlights but gaining Audi's virtual cockpit as standard. The revised model featured the same battery and drivetrain as before, now rated at 22 miles of electric range under the new WLTP test.
S3 (2013–2020)
The third generation Audi S3 is powered by a TFSI (turbo
In an internal combustion engine, a turbocharger (often called a turbo) is a forced induction device that is powered by the flow of exhaust gases. It uses this energy to compress the intake gas, forcing more air into the engine in order to pr ...
gasoline direct injection) inline-four engine
A straight-four engine (also called an inline-four) is a four-cylinder piston engine where cylinders are arranged in a line along a common crankshaft.
The vast majority of automotive four-cylinder engines use a straight-four layout (with the ...
, with an output of at 5,500 rpm and of torque
In physics and mechanics, torque is the rotational equivalent of linear force. It is also referred to as the moment of force (also abbreviated to moment). It represents the capability of a force to produce change in the rotational motion of th ...
at 1,800-5,500 rpm, with its redline at 6,800 rpm. It features new pistons with stronger bolts and new rings, as well as reinforced connecting rods with new mounts transferring the power to the crankshaft. The cylinder head
In an internal combustion engine, the cylinder head (often abbreviated to simply "head") sits above the cylinders and forms the roof of the combustion chamber.
In sidevalve engines, the head is a simple sheet of metal; whereas in more modern ...
is made of a new lightweight aluminium alloy
An aluminium alloy (or aluminum alloy; see spelling differences) is an alloy in which aluminium (Al) is the predominant metal. The typical alloying elements are copper, magnesium, manganese, silicon, tin, nickel and zinc. There are two principa ...
designed with high strength and temperature resistance in mind. It has a combined fuel economy of manual; and with '' S tronic''.
The engine weighs in at , lighter than the previous generation. The S3 is capable of 0– in 4.8-5.2 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of .
RS 3 (2015–2020)
Details for the RS 3 Sportback were revealed in December 2014. It went on sale in the first quarter of 2015 and featured a straight-5 engine
The straight-five engine (also referred to as an inline-five engine; abbreviated I5 or L5) is a piston engine with five cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankshaft.
Although less common than straight-four engines and straight-six eng ...
with and of torque. The RS 3 Sportback is equipped with 7-speed dual clutch S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive system. Scott Keogh of Audi of America said in April 2015 that he's "confident" we'll see the car come to the United States.
In 2017, the RS3 sedan or saloon was added to the line-up. The RS3 can be ordered with a fixed-suspension or an adjustable magnetic damper. Depending on the country, the RS3 can be purchased with different optional packages. For example, the Black Optic package includes high-gloss black 19-inch wheels, high-gloss black outside mirror covers, and a high-gloss black trunk lip spoiler, while the Dynamic package consists of titanium 19-inch wheels with summer performance tires, red brake calipers, and a sport exhaust system.
2016 facelift
After four years, the third-generation Audi A3 was given a facelift for the model year 2016, which also coincided with the 20th anniversary of the A3 name. The facelifted model was first unveiled through a set of official images in April 2016. The new A3 sedan was given significant cosmetic updates, which were inline with the automaker's new design philosophy. As a result, the 2017 Audi A3 featured the Matrix LED headlamps that were earlier seen in the A8 flagship sedan and the R8 supercar. The front grille was also given a refreshed treatment that made the A3 look like the A4. Changes on the sides and rear were minimal, with only the taillights getting optional LEDs. There were multiple updates on the interior as well, with a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster screen placed behind a revised steering wheel available as an optional upgrade. Sold in Europe and released in the United States for the 2016 model year.
Safety
Euro NCAP tested a third-generation Audi A3, 3-door hatchback with front airbags, side airbags, seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters as standard and scored it accordingly:
Engines
Fourth generation (''Typ'' 8Y; 2020)
The new A3 was unveiled online in 2020.
The new interior and exterior styling is heavily inspired by Lamborghini, LED headlights and taillights, with the option of Matrix and Laser LED headlights. It shares the MQB evo platform with other Audi models, and with the Volkswagen Golf Mk8, SEAT Leon Mk4, and Škoda Octavia Mk4.
It is 3 centimetres longer and wider when compared to the outgoing model while keeping the wheelbase length the same, trunk cargo space is 380 litres with the seats up, and 1200 litres with the seats folded down. It has a drag coefficient of 0.28, and is powered by 1.0-liter 3-cylinder gasoline turbocharged engine with 110 hp, 1.5-litre with 150 hp, 2.0-liter TDI with 116 hp or 150 hp.
There is also a new 2.0-liter Quattro version in both gasoline and diesel variants. It produces and of torque (400 Nm for the diesel variant). It also has reduced cargo space (320 litres instead of the 380 litres in the other A3 variants) due to the Quattro four-wheel-drive system.
The S3 model has the same 2.0L petrol engine from the previous generation, producing and of torque, but this time is only available with an automatic gearbox. Similarly it has reduced cargo space due to the Quattro four-wheel-drive system.
Like the previous generation, the new S3 also comes as a saloon/sedan.
The new A3 Sedan was revealed on 21 April 2020, with the front fascia similar to that of the A3 Sportback. Compared with its predecessor, the new A3 Sedan is 4 cm longer (4.50 meters), 2 cm wider (1.82 meters), and 1 cm taller (1.43 meters). However, the wheelbase remains unchanged.
This generation of the A3 sedan is not expected to arrive in North America until late 2021, as a 2022 model.
North America will not get the ''Sportback e-Tron'' like before. In the countries that will receive The PHEV A3 will no longer be called The e-tron because this name is reserved for electric Audi cars. Instead, it is called The TFSIe. There are 2 version of the TFSIe, called the "40" and the "45". The former dispatches a 0- time of 7.8 sec, while the latter is based on the Golf GTE and is a second quicker to .
This generation of the A3 sportback is arriving in Thailand this November 2021, as a 2022 model.
Audi RS 3
The highest specification RS 3 model is fitted with a 2.5-litre 5-cylinder producing and , and has 0- acceleration time of just 3.8 seconds. It gets a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, or an electric S-Tronic gearbox.
It also gets the new MMI infotainment system, with a 10.25 or 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a secondary screen of 10.1-inches.
Awards and accolades
* (2014) World Car of the Year
The World Car Awards (formerly World Car of the Year, WCOTY) is a group of automobile ''Car of the Year'' awards selected by a jury of 82 international automotive journalists from 24 countries. Cars considered must be sold in at least five countr ...
* (2013) ''What Car?'' Small Family Car of the Year
* (2013) ''What Car?
''What Car?'' is a British monthly automobile magazine and website, currently edited by Steve Huntingford and published by Haymarket Consumer Media. Other team members include deputy editor Darren Moss and test editors Will Nightingale, Neil ...
'' Car of the Year
* (2006) South African Car of the Year
* (2000) Brazilian Car of the Year
* (1997, 1999, 2000) ''Auto motor und sport
''Auto Motor und Sport'', often stylized as auto motor und sport and abbreviated AMS or AMuS, is a German automobile magazine.
It is published fortnightly by Motor Presse Netzwerk's subsidiary Motor Presse Stuttgart, a specialist magazine publi ...
'' readers' poll Best Car award
* (1997) ''Autozeitung
''Autozeitung'' or ''Auto Zeitung'' (German: "Automobile Newspaper") is a German-language biweekly automobile enthusiast magazine. It is headquartered in Cologne, Germany.
History and profile
''Autozeitung'' was established in 1969. The magazine ...
'' "Auto Trophy" award
* (1996) ''Bild am Sonntag
''Bild am Sonntag'' (''BamS'') is the largest-selling German national Sunday newspaper published in Berlin, Germany.
History and profile
''Bild am Sonntag'' was first published on 29 April 1956.Helmut Böger, ''Bild'', 8 May 2011Die Story von Ba ...
'' "Golden Steering Wheel" award
Motorsport
Münnich Motorsport
Münnich Motorsport GmbH, which also competes under the title All-Inkl.com Racing, is an auto racing team founded by German racing driver and entrepreneur René Münnich in 2006. The team has been built around three areas of motorsport since its ...
used an S3 in the FIA World Rallycross Championship
The FIA World Rallycross Championship (official abbreviation is World RX) is a rallycross series organised by the FIA in conjunction with series promoter Rallycross Promoter GmbH (founded by Red Bull and KW25). From the inaugural season in 2014 ...
and the FIA European Rallycross Championship
FIA is the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (English: International Automobile Federation), the world's governing body for all forms of motor sport where four or more wheels are used.
Fia or FIA may also refer to: People
* Fia Backs ...
.
Robb Holland used an S3 Saloon to compete in the 2014 British Touring Car Championship season under the NGTC regs. Currently AmD Tuning field two S3 Saloon's for Ant Whorton-Eales and Ollie Jackson
Oliver Jackson (born 26 April 1984 in Whitechapel, London) is a British racing driver who currently competes in the British Touring Car Championship.
Personal life
Ollie Jackson is from Reigate, Surrey and was educated at Epsom College. He the ...
.
Audi's motorsports brand, Audi Sport, produced an '' RS3 LMS'' beginning in 2017. The car is built to TCR International Series regulations.
After the release of 4th generation of Audi A3; the model of RS 3 LMS TCR is also changed, and it will firstly start to race in 2021 WTCR season.
References
# "A7, A5, and A3 Joins Even Numbers", an article in the "News" section on page thirty-eight of the June 2004 issue of ''Motor Trend
''MotorTrend'' is an American automobile magazine. It first appeared in September 1949, and designated the first Car of the Year, also in 1949.
Petersen Publishing Company in Los Angeles published ''MotorTrend'' until 1998, when it was sold to ...
''
# Audi A3 Owner's Manual (English/UK edition) (2000 Audi AG)
External links
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