The Audi A3 is a compact automobile in the C segment produced by the German premium manufacturer Audi. Since its introduction in 1996, the model has evolved through four generations, with the fourth generation (code 8Y) launched in 2020, featuring modern design elements, driver assistance systems, and hybrid technologies. In 2024, the A3 underwent a facelift and is offered in Sportback (hatchback), Sedan (Saloon), and Allstreet body types.

Design and Structural Features

Built on the MQB Evo platform, the A3 features sharp Matrix LED headlights, a wide Singleframe grille, and sporty body lines. The interior is equipped with a 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen, Audi Virtual Cockpit, and an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Body Types and Dimensions

1. Sportback

• Length: 4,343 mm
• Width (excluding mirrors): 1,816 mm
• Height: 1,449 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,636 mm
• Luggage capacity: 380 liters (ICE) / 280 liters (TFSI e)

2. Saloon (Sedan)

• Length: 4,495 mm
• Width (excluding mirrors): 1,816 mm
• Height: 1,425 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,636 mm
• Luggage capacity: 425 liters (ICE)

3. Allstreet

• Length: 4,353 mm
• Width (excluding mirrors): 1,816 mm
• Width (including mirrors): 1,984 mm
• Height: 1,470 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,629 mm
• Luggage capacity: 380 liters / 1,200 liters (with rear seats folded)
• Loading edge height: 682 mm
• Front/Rear track width: 1,553 mm / 1,522 mm

^{Audi A3 (8Y) Saloon Model (Audi)}

Powertrain Options and Performance

Petrol Engines (TFSI)

• 30 TFSI (1.0L 3-cylinder) – 110 hp
• Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed S tronic
• 35 TFSI (1.5L 4-cylinder) – 150 hp
• 48V mild-hybrid support (with S tronic)
• Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed S tronic
• 40 TFSI (2.0L 4-cylinder – quattro) – 190 hp
• Transmission: 7-speed S tronic
• Drivetrain: quattro AWD
• (Not available for Allstreet)
• S3 (2.0L 4-cylinder) – 310 hp
• 0–100 km/h: 4.8 s
• Top speed: 250 km/h

Diesel Engines (TDI)

• 30 TDI (2.0L 4-cylinder) – 116 hp
• Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed S tronic
• 35 TDI (2.0L 4-cylinder) – 150 hp
• Transmission: 7-speed S tronic

Plug-in Hybrid (TFSI e) (Not offered in Allstreet)

• 40 TFSI e (1.4L TFSI + electric motor) – 204 hp
• Electric range: 67 km (WLTP)
• Battery capacity: 13 kWh
• Charging time: 4 hours (3.6 kW AC)
• 45 TFSI e (S line) – 245 hp
• 0–100 km/h: 6.8 s

^{Audi A3 (8Y) Sportback Model (Audi)}

Equipment and Trim Levels

Standard Equipment

• LED front and rear lights
• 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen
• Audi Virtual Cockpit (10.25 inch)
• Audi Pre Sense Front (collision avoidance)
• Lane departure warning
• Traffic sign recognition
• Driver fatigue detection
• 16-inch alloy wheels (in base trims)
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Rear parking sensors

Optional Equipment

• Matrix LED headlights
• Dynamic LED indicators
• 18–19 inch alloy wheels
• Panoramic sunroof
• Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system (14 speakers)
• Adaptive cruise control with Stop&Go
• 360° surround view camera
• Park assist (automatic entry/exit)
• Head-Up Display
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Sport suspension (standard with S line)
• S line exterior body kit (standard with S line)

Safety and Driver Assistance Systems

In the 2020 Euro NCAP tests, the Audi A3 received a 5-star rating.

Standard Systems

• Audi Pre Sense Front
• Lane departure warning
• Traffic sign recognition
• Driver fatigue detection

Optional Systems

• Adaptive cruise control with Stop&Go
• Blind spot monitoring
• Park assist
• 360° camera

Production and Market Position

The Audi A3 is produced at Audi’s Ingolstadt plant in Germany and the Győr plant in Hungary. It competes with models such as the BMW 1 Series, Mercedes-Benz A-Class, and Volvo V40.