Audi has unveiled the fourth generation of the A3, featuring numerous innovations with its new infotainment, suspension, and driver assist systems.
The digital daytime running lights of the Matrix LED head lights are also new and consist of a pixel array made up of LED segments in a three by five arrangement that create special light signatures and make the A3 immediately recognisable.
The sporty and sophisticated design is continued in the interior with a new shifter, aluminium or carbon inlays, striking door handles and an instrument panel with a black-panel look. Seat upholstery made from recycled Polyethylene terephthalate bottles and adorned with stylish contrasting stitching are being used for the first time.
The cockpit of the A3 Sportback is wholly focused on the driver. It features a 10.1-inch touch display as standard, which is integrated into the centre of the instrument panel. The infotainment unit recognises letters entered by hand, provides acoustic feedback and can be controlled using natural language.
The Audi Virtual Cockpit option offers additional functions such as a large display of the navigation map, while the plus version raises the display size to 12.3 inches and offers three different views. A head-up display that projects important information onto the windshield can be installed upon request.
The Audi Multi Media Interface has received an upgrade so its computing power is now 10 times higher than that of its predecessor. It will perform all tasks relating to connectivity, including telephony and the Audi connect services with Long-Term Evolution Advanced speed, and also has an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot.
Individual settings can be stored in up to six user profiles - from climate control and seat position to frequently selected navigation destinations and frequently used media. The Digital Audi Broadcasting+ digital radio is included as standard and the online or hybrid radio is available as an option. Audi Navigation now also offers predictions on the development of the traffic situation, and can deliver high-resolution satellite images from Google Earth and detailed 3D models of many major European cities.
Equipped with Audi Pre Sense Front, Swerve Assist and Lane Departure Warning, the A3 Sportback helps prevent accidents with other road users and offers a high level of safety as standard.
Further assistance systems, such as the lane change and exit warnings as well as the Cross-Traffic and Park Assist systems, are available as an option. Adaptive Cruise Assist will aid in maintaining the speed and distance to the vehicle in front and assists with lane guidance by means of gentle interventions in the electromechanical steering.
The new Audi A3 Sportback is being launched in Europe with a choice of three engine versions - a turbocharged 1.5-litre TFSI with 148bhp, and a turbocharged 2.0-litre TDI that delivers 114bhp or 148bhp.
Power will be transmitted by a six-speed manual transmission or a quick-shifting automatic seven-speed S tronic gearbox.
Audi will be gradually expanding the offer to include further engine versions, including electrified drive systems and versions with quattro all-wheel drive.
The suspension of the new A3 Sportback, with a four-link rear axle for engines from 148bhp onwards, will combine pleasant ride comfort with good dynamics. Upon request, the suspension is also available with Adaptive Damper Control, which also lowers the body by 10mm. The Sport Suspension meanwhile will deliver tauter suspension and damper tuning, as well as lower the vehicle by 15mm for an even more direct contact with the road surface.
