Audi A3 Sportback in Paris has been confirmed

The new Audi A3 Sportback is long and lean. While the length of 4,310mm, width of 1,780mm and height of 1,425mm, are only slightly greater than the previous model, the wheelbase now measures 2,636mm - an increase of 58mm. This makes the five-door model 35mm longer between the axles than the three-door version.

The distinguishing element at the front of the A3 Sportback is the distinctive, stone grey single-frame grille with its angled upper corners. The lower edges of the headlights taper off at an angle, and on S line models are equipped as standard with xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights - these will also be optional for other versions. Large air intakes up front also hint at the power of the engines.

At the rear, the split rear lights underscore the width of the A3 Sportback - on S line models, or where the optional LED light package has been specified, these are formed using LEDs whose conductors appear to form a continuous arch. The adaptive brake light, which pulses at high frequency during hard braking, is standard. A sharp crease sets off the diffuser, and depending on the engine the exhaust system which protrudes from it terminates in one or two tailpipes on the left side of the car.

The interior of the new A3 Sportback is marked by an elegant, clean and light design. The intuitively clean ergonomics are a classic Audi strength, and are characterised by the MMI operating system with its power-retractable monitor which will be standard on UK models. A button for the electromechanical parking brake replaces the handbrake lever - another adoption from the larger Audi models.

The driver sits at an elegant steering wheel which, depending on version, has three or four spokes, a flat-bottomed rim, multifunction buttons and shift paddles. The large dial instruments can be easily read at a glance. The newly developed front seats offer outstanding support, and sports seats are fitted as standard to Sport and S line versions.