Audi has unveiled a comprehensive refresh for its popular A3 and S3 model lines, further enhancing their design, technology, and material quality. These updated compact offerings aim to stay ahead of the curve in the competitive premium compact car segment.
A Fresh Face with Enhanced Presence
The most noticeable changes come on the exterior. A wider, slimmer, and frameless Singleframe grille dominates the front fascia, flanked by the latest iteration of the Audi rings, which now appear both within the grille and on the tailgate. Borrowing design cues from the larger Q8 e-tron SUV, the B-pillars now proudly display the model designation.
Restyled bumpers and a rear diffuser inspired by the high-performance RS 3 give the A3 a more aggressive look. New standard wheel designs across all variants add a touch of individuality, while a captivating color palette featuring Arkona White, Arrow Grey, Ascari Blue, Progressive Red, and District Green provides further personalization options.
A Cabin Focused on Comfort and Technology
Stepping inside reveals a refined and technologically advanced interior. New fabrics and inlays, redesigned air vents, and an improved gear shift lever for the S tronic transmission enhance the material quality and user experience. Everyday usability is further improved with features like expanded three-zone climate control and front and rear parking sensors with parking aid plus.
Technology takes center stage with the inclusion of the Audi virtual cockpit plus, offering a sophisticated digital instrument cluster. Additionally, the new onboard Audi app store allows drivers to access a wide range of third-party apps directly through the MMI touch display, extending the functionality of the smartphone interface.
Audi introduces “Functions on Demand” in the A3, a novel feature that allows owners to purchase and activate additional features like adaptive cruise control or high beam assist even after their car has been delivered. This provides greater flexibility and customization options.
Enhanced Trim Levels for Individuality
The A3 continues to be offered in three core trim levels: Sport, S line, and Black Edition. Each receives upgrades, catering to a range of preferences.
Sport models benefit from features like front seat heating and a 10-speaker sound system. S line variants gain a flat-bottomed steering wheel, multi-colored ambient lighting, and the unique option to personalize the exterior daytime running lights with four distinct “light signatures.”
Black Edition models, positioned at the top of the range, inherit the S line enhancements and add a new decorative inlay crafted from a technical fabric made from 100% recycled fibers.
The S3: Performance Elevated
The high-performance S3 gets a power boost, with the 2.0 TFSI engine now producing a mighty 333PS and 420Nm of torque, making it the most powerful iteration of this iconic hot hatch ever. A significant addition is the torque splitter on the rear axle, designed to improve both agility and stability by distributing torque optimally between the rear wheels. This innovative technology enhances handling and driving dynamics.
S3 models come standard with S sports suspension, lowering the ride height for a more dynamic feel. The S3 Vorsprung benefits from an even more advanced suspension with adaptive dampers specifically tuned for the torque splitter and Audi drive select modes.
Option Packages Tailored to Your Needs
The popular option packs for the A3 have also been revised to offer even greater value. The Technology Pack now includes a reversing camera, head-up display, adaptive cruise assist with various safety features, and a premium sound system. The Technology Pack Pro adds Matrix LED headlights, keyless entry, a panoramic glass roof, powered front seats, and more advanced driver assistance systems.
The S3 boasts its own S Technology Pack Pro, featuring adaptive cruise assist with additional safety features, head-up display, lane change assist, and a panoramic glass roof, among other enhancements.
In Conclusion
The comprehensively updated Audi A3 and S3 land in the UK market with a sharper design, a more technologically advanced interior, and a renewed focus on driver experience. With a range of trim levels, option packs, and the innovative “Functions on Demand” feature, Audi caters to a wide range of customer preferences. The significantly more powerful S3 further solidifies its position as a leader in the high-performance compact car segment. This refreshed lineup ensures that the A3 and S3 remain strong contenders in the ever-evolving premium compact car market.
Sources: press.audi.co.uk
