#72 Audi A3 Saloon – Compact, classy & cute

With the launch of the All-New A3 Saloon, Audi is entering the world's largest market segment: The compact saloon. The dynamic four-door car offers all of the strength of the Audi A3 model series such as low weight, thanks to lightweight design, together with powerful and highly efficient engines.

Audi A3 Saloon

Looks

The All-New Audi A3 saloon has a sporty stance on the road. The All-New Audi A3’s overall design is marriage between the classic three-box concept and the coupé philosophy. A striking "tornado line" runs over the entire side of the saloon. The side surfaces are more intensively curved, and the wheel arches are slightly more flared. The four-door car also expresses independent lines in the contour of its hood, in the bumpers, air intakes and its implementation of the single frame grille. At the rear, the spoiler is integrated in the boot lid, while the rear lights have a broad look that emphasizes the car's horizontal lines. The All-New Audi A3 Saloon is delivered with wheels from 16-inches up to 19-inches in diameter.

Front look

Performance

Providing performance for the All-New Audi A3 Saloon is a host of refined four cylinder power units: A 1.4 TFSI and 1.8 TFSI. The performance figures for the 1.4 TFSI are 103 kW (140 hp) and 250 Nm. 1.4-liter engine gives the car a combined fuel consumption of just 4.7-liters fuel per 100 km. It takes just 8.4 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h, and the car's top speed with this engine is 213 km/h. The 1.8 TFSI produces 132 kW (180 hp) and 250 Nm of torque. The 1.8-litre power unit accelerates the All-New Audi A3 to 100km/h in just 7.3 seconds. Top speed is an impressive 235 km/h. The engine needs 5.6-litters of fuel per 100 km. Depending on the engine, either a manual six-speed transmission or the S-tronic is used. The S-tronic dual-clutch transmission shifts the gears without any noticeable break in propulsive power. It is controlled by either the selector lever or paddles on the steering wheel.

Sporty profile 

Chassis

The front suspension is a MacPherson design with A-arms and aluminium pivot bearings. It is joined to an aluminium subframe. The electromechanically assisted steering system operates sensitively and efficiently together with various assistance systems. In the four-link rear suspension, which utilizes a steel cross member, the springs and shock absorbers are mounted separately, to enhance comfort and handling.

Cockpit 

Interior

The interior of the All-New Audi A3 saloon is characterized by impressive attention to detail. The lines and surfaces are cleanly designed, and a long arc spans the width of the front windshield. The instrument panel with its curved front is slender, and the centre console is slightly turned towards the driver. The newly developed front seats offer countless adjustment possibilities for optimal support. Available upholstery materials include fabric covers, a mix of fabric and artificial leather, Milano leather and a combination of Pearl nappa leather and Alcantara.

Rear seats 

The steering wheel has either three or four spokes, depending on the version. The customer can also order the steering wheel with a flat bottom, multifunction keys and shift paddles. The MMI operating system has an electrically extending screen. Its terminal is housed in the console of the centre tunnel. The electromechanical parking brake is activated by a pushbutton. Thanks to the long wheelbase, rear passengers also enjoy ample space and comfortable entry. The cargo capacity of the trunk measures 425 litters. This capacity can be increased by folding down the rear seatbacks. The boot lid automatically swings upward after it is unlocked.

Rear look 

Verdict

Audi’s first attempt at the compact saloon segment will surely go unnoticed. The All-New Audi A3 Saloon roomy interior, flashy design, intuitive infotainment systems, and economical four-cylinder units will surely draw many new customers to the brand. If you are looking for an affordable, reliable and striking compact saloon, then the All-New Audi A3 Saloon should be among the top picks in your list.