New A3 models arriving in 2022

Arriving Down Under early in the new year, the all-new Audi A3 models will again redefine the very segment the model essentially created 25 years ago. With distinctive new exterior styling, technology and connectivity as well as higher levels of standard equipment than ever before, the A3 Sportback and Sedan once again set the standard for the compact luxury class and build on the models’ enviable reputation.

Having effectively created the premium compact segment with its first iteration in the 1990s, the A3 models have consistently raised the bar with each successive new model. Now, with the A3 Sportback in its fourth generation and the A3 Sedan in its second, these stunning models once again offer a superior blend of premium quality throughout, clever technology – much of which is again new to the segment – and of course a rewarding driving experience.

The new A3 range in Australia will be made up of four model variants with two TFSI engines – the A3 Sportback 35 TFSI ($46,300*), A3 Sportback 40 TFSI quattro S line ($52,900*), A3 Sedan 35 TFSI ($48,800*) and the A3 Sedan 40 TFSI quattro S line ($55,400*).

Both the Sportback and Sedan are physically larger then their predecessors which results in greater head and shoulder room for front occupants, and their styling – while immediately recognisable – is far more sculpted and dynamic in its execution than ever before. 

The new Singleframe grille design is wider and lower than on the previous model, and along with the large front air inlets on each side, accentuate the wider look of both models. 

The strong shoulder line and the dramatic rocker line, likewise give the flanks a chiselled look that accentuates the wide wheel arches and give both models an unmistakably athletic presence.

Distinctive new LED headlights with dynamic indicators are standard equipment across the A3 range, as are 18-inch alloy wheels, while the S line models also receive the dynamic S line exterior styling package for an even sharper, sportier look.

Likewise inside, the A3 models again bring a standard of finish that immediately sets them apart, the clean, open layout further accentuating the feeling of space and the technology seamlessly integrated into the interior design.

From the revised Audi 10.25 inch virtual cockpit to the 10.1-inch touch display and MMI navigation plus, the minimalist shifter design to the driver-focused dash layout, everything about the interior architecture is considered and beautifully executed. Thanks to the touch operation of many functions, switch gear, knobs and dials are kept to a minimum which further enhances the clean lines, and yet the level of technology employed is world class. 

For the first time, the new A3 offers Audi connect plus, with the integration of a raft of online services including traffic, weather conditions, fuel prices, parking information and Google satellite map overlay into the A3 driving experience. In addition, there are other functions enabled through the myAudi smartphone app like remote lock/unlock, Audi service request and emergency call, thanks to the embedded SIM card. 

The level of standard appointments is impressive, a hallmark of the A3 models, with the likes of Audi smartphone interface provides Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity all included, along with Audi phone box light offers wireless phone charging, dual-zone climate control and leather multifunction steering wheel.

The 40 TFSI quattro S line models also features Audi Drive Select as standard equipment, for greater control over numerous drive and comfort characteristics, as well as sport front seats, ambient lighting package and storage and luggage compartment package.

The engines too are more advanced, starting with the 1.5-litre in the A3 35 TFSI which replaces the entry level 1.4-litre from the previous model. This new powerplant features Cylinder On Demand (COD) technology as well as a mild-hybrid system (MHEV) for both power and economy. Using a belt alternator starter (BAS) to feed a 48-volt electrical system that integrates a compact lithium-ion battery, the MHEV system delivers a fuel saving of up to 0.4L/100km making this engine more efficient than its predecessor despite its greater displacement.

With 110kW and 250Nm of torque, the 1.5-litre TFSI powerplant lacks nothing in terms of urge and yet still delivers fuel economy of 5.0 L/100km for the Sportback and 4.9 L/100km for the Sedan.

Step up to the larger displacement 2.0-litre four-cylinder in the A3 40 TFSI quattro S line models and power output increases to 140kW and 320Nm of torque with power going down to the road through quattro all-wheel drive. Yet despite the significant increase in performance, economy remains an impressive 6.7 L/100km for the Sportback and 6.6 L/100km for the Sedan.

Of course a 5-star ANCAP safety rating goes without saying, and the A3 models boast an impressive suite of safety and driver assistance systems including Audi pre-sense city with AEB (including pedestrian and cyclist detection), side assist, lane assist, cruise control with speed limiter, park assist with rear view camera and tyre pressure loss indicator.

In addition to the extensive standard equipment on offer, customers will also be able to further enhance their vehicles with an additional equipment package available for each variant – a Comfort Package, available on the 35 TFSI and the Premium Package available for the 40 TFSI S line quattro.

Once again the Audi A3 range represents a perfect balance of performance and superior appointment in a visually compelling vehicle with Audi’s trademark driving dynamics. Twenty five years after the original model first captured the imagination, it’s fair to say that the A3 continues to set the standard for others to follow in the premium compact ranks, and the customer is simply left to decide whether the five-door Sportback or the Sedan configuration best suits their lifestyle. If only all of life’s big decisions were so straightforward.

The Audi A3 Sportback and Sedan will arrive in Audi Dealers in early 2022.

Register your interest for the all-new Audi A3 Sportback or Audi A3 Sedan to receive updates ahead of their Australian release.

(*Manufacturer List Pricing [MLP] – excludes dealer delivery and government statutory charges)

The vehicles pictured are overseas models and are for illustration purpose only. They do not accurately reflect the final specification that will be available in Australia.