Audi A3 gets updated with new features and a PHEV option

KUALA LUMPUR: Audi has given its premium subcompact hatch, the A3 a substantial update. Thus making it more able to go against the likes of Mercedes-Benz A-Class and BMW 1 Series. The German automaker has given the car fresh styling elements on the outside and the inside gets new comforting and luxuries features. However, the biggest highlight of the update remains the addition of a new plug-in hybrid model.

Talking first about the new A3 PHEV model, it is powered by the tried and tested 1.4-litre turbo four-cylinder mill that makes 148 hp. This unit is paired to an 80kW electric motor and together they develop 210 hp of power and 350 Nm of torque. The power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed S Tronic automatic gearbox, which Audi says is lighter compared to the previous setup. Despite the rear battery pack, the boot space is not much compromised - with only 100 litres occupied, the hybrid model offers 280-litre of cargo space. On the performance front, the A3 40 TFSI e PHEV covers 0 to 100 kmph sprint in 7.6 seconds and has a top speed of 277 kmph. The A3 hybrid offers an impressive electric-only driving range of 66 km and will get fully charged at home in a little over four hours.

On the design front, we see Audi Q3-like elements making way into the new A3 Sportback. Included into the list is a wider grille, new air intakes, revised LED headlight with optional, matrix LEDs, slightly tweaked bonnet, 16-inch alloy wheels (standard) with 17- and 18-inch wheels available as optional.

The revisions continue on the inside with the A3 hatch now getting a long list of standard features. For example, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, digital instrument cluster, and a two-zone auto air-con system. Audi is also offering a colour head-up display and a full-size 12.3-inch digital instrument display as optional. For other A3 variants, customers can expect cabin features like a new infotainment rotary dial, new panels for climate control and rocker switch, and an integrated infotainment display on the dashboard.

The new A3 will also benefit from Audi's Car-to-X software that communicates with Audi cars, traffic signs, and infrastructures to give parking and real-time driving information.

Note, the Audi A3 PHEV will not be available in entry-level Technik trim and will be a good $9,050 (around RM 37,580) more expensive than the cheapest A3 variant.

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