Halfway through its fourth-generation, and on-sale for over 25 years, Audi has tweaked its upmarket A3 hatch and saloon. We got our hands on the facelifted Sportback hatch.
The fourth-generation A3, in our opinion, was the most distinctive yet with the blistered arches, plus large lower cutout lower down the flanks. However, the biggest changes for facelift models are to the styling. From the front, there’s a wider, slimmer, and frameless singleframe grille, the latest flush, two-dimensional Audi rings (which also feature on the tailgate), plus new LED headlights. There are also reworked bumper and rear diffuser designs, which Audi tells us draw their inspiration from the RS3. At the side, the specific model designation is newly displayed on the B-pillar – a feature that appeared first on the Q8 E-Tron SUV. There are also new standard wheel designs, plus new colours. Like the Q8 E-Tron, and our own long-term Q4 E-Tron, this A3 was beautifully detailed, and as such a proper premium product.
Interior changes and increased specifications
Inside, new fabrics and inlays, remodelled air vents, and an improved S tronic gear shift lever design are the key material changes. All of which add up to a more premium feel than the current A3. There’s also an uplift in specifications, with this Black Edition now benefitting from the fitment of a new flat-bottomed, three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, and the front light signatures can be changed with four different, and individual modes, via the infotainment.
The latest A3 Sportback and Saloon models will initially be available with a choice of two engines – the 1.5-litre petrol 35 TFSI that we have here, and a 2.0-litre diesel 35TDI. Both offer 148hp and are combined with a seven-speed S tronic automatic gearbox. Core Sport, S Line and Black Edition (same as our test car) equipment grades have all been enhanced as part of the update. Sportier S3 models are also available, but incoming plug-in hybrid versions are likely to be most popular with fleet.
The 148hp version of the 1.5-litre petrol engine powering our 35TFSI is punchy around town, however it feels more strained on faster roads. We would blame the ‘flat’ feel to the accelerator, and the generally slow to respond seven-speed DSG automatic transmission in any other mode than ‘Dynamic’.
Progressive steering
On the move, this A3 was fitted with Audi’s optional Progressive Steering, which centres around a variable rack that equals a more direct feel. Sadly, whist precision is much improved, as before, it is sadly devoid of feel. In ‘Dynamic’ mode, the steering weights up oddly, but in general, it’s a worthwhile option.
Black Edition A3s are fitted with 15mm lower sport suspension, and 19in alloy wheels. On these wheels the Audi looks the part, but these together with the suspension, equal a sometimes harsh, uncomfortable, and unsettled feel to the drive.
We also have an issue with the brakes, which we’re not sure was limited to our test car. Overall, they lack feel, and are sometimes hard to modulate.
This A3 35TSI could do with more performance, plus the hard ride and odd feel to the brakes won’t suit all. However, there’s no doubting the quality, keen drive, and we love Audi’s new brand detailing which feels special. Incoming plug-in models will be justifiably popular with fleets.
Positive: Premium detailing, updated interior trim gives a more upmarket feel, infotainment works well, easy to drive.
Negative: Steering lacks feel, 19in wheels and sports suspension won’t suit all, average space in the back.
Standard equipment: 17in alloy wheels, heated front seats, three-zone climate control, Audi Virtual Cockpit, Audi sound system, front and rear parking sensors, leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel, adjustable speed limiter, parking sensors front and rear, MMI Navigation Plus with 10.1in screen, LED headlamps.
| Model | Audi A3 Sportback Black Edition 35 TFSI S Tronic |
| P11D | £39,005 |
| Residual value | 45% |
| Depreciation | £19,910 |
| Fuel | £7,968 |
| Service, maintenance and repair | £2,781 |
| Cost per mile | 51.09p |
| Fuel consumption | 49.6 mpg |
| CO2 (BIK%) | 130g/km (31%) |
| BIK 20/40% a month | £192/£384 |
| Luggage capacity | 280 litres |
| Engine size/power | 1,498cc/148hp |
| Score | 8/10 |
