Audi A3 is in its third generation, and since introduction date was in 2012, it is time for a refresh. Waiting four years for a redesign, make us wonder whether this version is going to stay longer with us than usual in industry, but definitely, we hope it’s not going to be as long as ten years of a lifespan of the previous one. Anyway, in 2015 new A4 was revealed and it brought some new styling cues, and Audi being Audi, it has to be copy pasted across the whole range. So let’s review changes on 2017 Audi A3.
2017 Audi A3 Design
It’s Audi, so you can’t point part of the car and say that it is marvelous and yet overall it is perfect from all angles. Also it can be easily confused with any other sedan in the lineup, but on another hand, German carmaker invented hard-core corporate design consistency, and Mercedes took it even further to experience a great boost in sales.
When new A4 was launched we could easily guess what changes will feature A3 soon, so we got A4 headlights, more angular single-frame grille, revised front bumper and changed configuration of rear lights. No Audi ever received more than nip and tuck, and it proves sufficient in the majority of cases as they come very fresh and attractive.
Interior
The design cues are simplicity enriched with elegance, and there is no single button or line acting like too much. This is premium, so materials are to be best in the class and build quality is sublime, as Audi is leading German pack in that area. Everything seems extremely durable and solid, and it appears that every spot was previously well thought out. Downfalls would be short seat cushions, lack of leg room in front and lack of everything in the back.
This come as no surprise as German trio never intended to offer space leading figures in the segment, that is left to nonpremium brands, while they play on other cards. One thing has been definitely neglected, and that is noise, and quite of it, which doesn’t suit premium vehicle at all.
ENGINE AND RIDE
Dieselgate took its toll and diesel engine is off the line, and that is the least that could be done. What we are left with is new 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine pumping 220 hp, which is visibly more from 170 hp last year output. It is not all that thirsty as it offers 27 mpg combined. You can opt for front-wheel drive and expect understeer – Audi’s inevitable mark, or you can opt for all-wheel drive legendary Quattro.
No opting for gearboxes as in the US you can only get 6-speed dual-clutch automatic with ultra rapid shifts, possible to maneuver by paddle shifters, and there are no words about the manual for now. It is easy to ride, due to its stability and responsiveness and finally decent communication between the wheel and electric powered steering exist, and yes we said electric, not hydraulic.
Those interested in greenness can go for A3 Sportback e-tron with 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine and an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery, with a capacity of 8.8 kWh. This version makes it possible to reach 34 mpg of combined consumption. All in all, going green doesn’t have to include ditching fun as 258 lb-ft of torque guarantee some driving joy for sure.
EQUIPMENT
The standard one is really decent, and many could settle with leather upholstery, a power driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth streaming audio, HD Radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, xenon headlamps, LED daytime running lights, a rain sensor for the wipers, and a panoramic moonroof. Everything else is inside Premium Plus and Prestige trim.
Audi A3 2017 OVERALL
So 2017 Audi A3 just received an update in order not to be ashamed by newer bigger brother. In short, if you are perfectionist go for it, if you are emotionalist keep searching.
