Test Audi A3 Sportback 30 TDI 116 CV S line

Audi took risks and launched the first premium compact onto the market in 1996, the Audi A3. The move went quite well at the mark of the four rings, as it would quickly become one of the best-selling models in its entire history. He is only surpassed by his older brother, the A4. Until now, we knew of three generations, of which more than 5 million units have been marketed.

But oddly enough, 24 years have passed since that first three-door A3 debuted, and 8 years since the third generation was released in 2012. The Ingolstadt brand has just put the Fourth generation, which is already available at dealerships. We are already behind the wheel! Welcome to this first test of the Audi A3, which we have driven in the 30 hp 116 TDI version.

The Audi A3 has a continuous design, but more dynamic

The first thing that we must highlight is that despite the fact that it is a generational change, there are no major changes in its structure. Like the new Volkswagen Golf and Seat León (first cousins ​​of this A3), there is no change in the platform, which is still the famous MQB. That is why the exterior dimensions hardly change, maintaining the trunk and interior space. Thus, the new Audi A3 measures 4.343 mm in length, 1.816 in width and 1.449 in height. The battle is 2.636 mm.

With the above in mind, let's take a look at its exterior design. Does the new Audi A3 2020 change a lot? The truth is that it is still easily recognizable like the German compact we all know. However, there are interesting modifications.

At the front we find an evolution of the hexagonal Singleframe grille, now wider and lower, using a honeycomb pattern instead of the traditional horizontal slats. In the lower corners we have large air inlets (for aesthetic function). As in the A1, the union of the bumper with the hood is striking, with those three cavities that try to emulate the legendary Audi S1 ​​of Group B.

Special mention deserve the headlights. In all versions are LED , but the most striking thing is that they have a specific light form depending on the finish if we choose the optional Matrix LED headlights. They present a different design for the Advanced, S Line and S3, the future TFSIe and the sporty RS 3, which will take a little longer to reach the market.

On the side there are few changes. It is appreciated that the front part is slightly lower, while the lines in the wings and doors are increased to increase its aesthetic muscle. New heel cups are also introduced. On the other hand, the glazed surface is still large, although it seems slightly smaller than the predecessor generation.

Focusing on the rear of the new Audi A3, it's easy to see the new style LED taillights, which follow the style created by the A1 a couple of years ago. Now they are thinner and more stylized, more dynamic. In addition, at the top we see a roof spoiler, while the bumper has been completely redesigned by introducing simulated exhaust outlets and a marked "diffuser". Why not put real exhausts? I will never understand.

A well-made and smart interior

La technology is the order of the day, and that is why the interior of the A3 has changed considerably. The completely straight and symmetrical design of previous generations has been altered. Let's start talking about the screens, because this model comes with two as standard in all versions.

Behind the sports steering wheel of this S line we have a digital instrument cluster which is 10,25 inches as standard, but is optionally enlarged to 12 inches. The design and structure is similar to the previous one, so it remains clear, intuitive and with all the necessary information. In addition, it is configurable and very well ordered.

The other screen is located in the center of the dashboard. It is no longer retractable as in the previous A3, but is fully integrated into the dashboard design with the black panel outline. Mind you, it's in a lower position now, but it still looks good and doesn't cause any distractions. Is infotainment screen is 10,1-inch capacitive.

One thing that I really like is that Audi has not opted, as most brands are doing, to manage the air conditioning through touch controls. here we still have physical buttons, which is always much more intuitive. Of course, from my point of view, it would not have been more to have wheels instead of buttons for the temperature and that the display was in color.

For the rest, personally I have been very struck by the climate control air vents style. Look at the driver's, with a hexagonal design and in an elevated position. They remind me a bit of Lamborghini style, really. Those of the passenger are located in a somewhat lower position.

We continue with the interior and although our tested unit comes with a manual gearbox, the truth is that the S tronic versions have used a very small gear knob. Personally, I miss the previous levers for automatics, but it is true that with these smaller ones, a cleaner design is created and space can be used a little more.

What I don't like is that, depending on the versions, we will have more or less glossy black, the famous Piano Black plastic. From my point of view, this material should be practically prohibited (it's a figure of speech), because it's really dirty and scratches very easily.

Let's finish off and before moving on to the next section it's time to talk about quality. Without a doubt, the Audi A3 is far above the Volkswagen Golf that we tested just a few days ago. Although there are also some hard plastics on the undersides, the feel is far superior on this A3. Of course, the climate zone could be somewhat better resolved in terms of aesthetics, not in settings. There is a lot of quality inside this car. Shakes hands with him BMW Serie 1 and clearly exceeds Mercedes A-Class.

Suitable for traveling four and with the trunk loaded

As we said above, the platform of the Audi A3 remains the same MQB of the predecessor generation. That is why there are no major changes in terms of exterior and interior dimensions. So, habitability hardly changes. The front seats, as always in conventional cars, are spacious for tall adults within normal limits.

All the rear squares are above the segment average. They are similar to those of the aforementioned Golf, having more space than in a BMW 1 Series, in a Mercedes Class A or in a Mazda3, to cite a few examples. Oh, four adults of 1,80 can travel comfortably in this car. The central square, as usual, is not comfortable at all.

Regarding holes, there are several pockets and bottle holders in the front and rear seats. There are also USB sockets in front and behind, but all of them are USB type C. Finally, there is a central rear air outlet, with regulation.

If we leave the rear seats and open the tailgate, we receive a 380 liter trunk. It is exactly the same capacity as in the previous generation, which in the Golf and that in the Seat Leon. Shapes are still very usable and the quality of finish in this cargo space is very good. By the way, if we knock down the rear seats we get a space of 1.200 liters.

The Audi A3 will have a very complete mechanical offer

At the moment, the mechanical offer is limited to five engines. In gasoline we have the block 1.0 three-cylinder supercharged 110 hp, which is called 30 TFSI. On a higher rung is the A3 35 TFSI, which uses a 1.5-liter block with cylinder deactivation that delivers 150 hp. On the basis of this mechanics, the 48-volt microhybrid appears 35TFSI MHEV (also 150 hp), with mandatory S tronic gearbox and DGT Eco label.

passing by diesel, we find a shared engine block for two different powers of 2 liters, the famous 2.0 TDI. They are commercially known as 30 TDI and 35 TDI, developing 116 and 150 hp. The first comes with a manual transmission, while the second for now only with the 7-speed S tronic.

Anyway, several more mechanics are coming soon. Soon there will be more microhybrids, more powerful blocks, plug-in hybrid versions with 205 and 245 hp and variants with all-wheel drive four. To these we must add the sports ones, since the Audi S3 Sportback is expected to arrive in a few months and, although we will have to wait longer, the end has also been confirmed. Audi RS 3.

As a curiosity, Audi Spain has stated that will not sell CNG versions in our country. The reason -as they say- is that demand has been low in previous models with this fuel, among other things, because the fuel tank is small. It is also true that there are not many points to refuel Compressed Natural Gas in our country.

At the wheel: The usual philosophy, around the place and in comfort

During this national presentation to the press we have risen to the Audi A3 S line 30 TDI, that is, the 2-liter engine with 116 hp. We have driven about 130 kilometers, most of them on secondary roads, very twisty areas where you can squeeze the chassis and also some tens of kilometers on highways and motorways.

To put you in a situation, I will first tell you about the main data and benefits of the Audi A3 with this engine. It is a four-cylinder diesel engine with 1.968 cubic centimeters. It develops 116 CV between 2.750 and 4.250 laps, as well as 300 Nm of torque between 1.500 and 3.000. It accelerates from 0 to 100 in 10,1 seconds and has a top speed of 206 km/h. Finally, the combined approved consumption ranges between 4,7 and 4,2 l/100 km, depending on the versions.

The Audi A3 maintains its driving philosophy. It is a comfortable car, with a fantastic footprint and very suitable for all types of roads. It also defends itself very well on winding roads, as we have been able to verify, with a very stable cornering. However, and as is tradition, he does not have a great sporting touch despite his effectiveness. It is a car on rails.

As soon as we start this 3 hp A116 TDI we realize that we are dealing with a diesel engine. The mechanics transmit the usual coarse noise of these diesel engines, especially when we accelerate hard and stretch the gears. It is not excessively noisy, but if we circulate with the audio equipment turned off, it is perceived.

The response of this engine, despite its 116 hp, is enough for most of usual situations. It does not recover very quickly, but the truth is that in everyday driving we only rarely miss the 150 hp version; basically in overtaking on secondary roads or in additions to highways.

Continuing with the driving, Audi prepared some very interesting, fun-filled stretches for us. So much so that I have had a good time with a diesel of only 116 hp. And beware, this tested unit does not use the multi-link rear suspension or the adaptive shock absorbers, although it does have a more rigid configuration than in other versions because it is the S line. Very satisfied in that regard. The car goes where we guide with the steering wheel without presenting trajectory losses or excessive inertia.

Is in freeway where the good work of this Audi A3 is appreciated. Sixth gear, adaptive cruise control at 120 km / h and devour kilometers. I can't speak to how it feels on a long drive, but this first impression was very good. The driver's seat is comfortable, the suspension absorbs well and the insulation is well done. In this area, as the engine turns relaxed and at half loads, no mechanical noises reach the interior. Something tells me that you can hit a long trip very comfortably and without fatigue.

driving assistants

I do not want to forget about the true technological load in the most important sense, that of security. The Audi A3 brings serial the pre sense front, the assistant to avoid collisions and the involuntary lane departure warning.

By Optional adaptive driving assistant, automatic high beams, emergency assistant, park assist, lane departure warning with side assistance, exit warning and rear cross traffic assistant can be added.

Conclusions

There is not a huge leap in this Audi A3 Sportback compared to the previous one but, in addition to retouching its exterior and interior aesthetics, it presents new technologies. in terms of connectivity and infotainment, in safety and also in the offer of mechanics, as it will be varied and complete as the rest of the versions are incorporated into the German premium compact.

At the level of qualities and driving there is practically nothing to reproach to the mark of the four rings. It has not disappointed at all, remaining a noble, efficient, comfortable and very complete car. To ask, it would not hurt that the brand (or rather, the Volkswagen group) will manage to reduce the noise of its TDI engines when cold and during acceleration.

By the way, if you want to know in depth the main rivals of this new Audi A3, do not forget to visit the tests of the following models:

• BMW Serie 1
• Mazda3
• Mercedes A-Class
• Volkswagen Golf

Equipment Audi A3

Basic

• Digital Cockpit 10,25 inches
• Dual zone automatic climate control
• MMI Radio Plus with 10,1-inch touch screen
• Headlights with LED technology
• Pre Sense Comfort
• lane departure warning
• Radio digital
• keyless start
• ecall
• 16-inch alloy wheels
• 3-spoke multimedia steering wheel

Advanced (adds)

• Outer Advanced
• Full LED headlights with dynamic rear turn signals
• Phone Box Light
• Audi smartphone interface
• rear parking sensors
• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Cruise control

S line (add)

• Outer S line
• Advanced Sport Seats
• 18-inch Audi Sport wheels
• black headlining
• sports suspension

Black Line (adds)

• Black optical package
• Darkened rear windows
• Mirror caps in black
• 18-inch Audi Sport Blade wheels

Genuine Edition

The Audi A3 presents a special edition called Genuine edition for its commercial launch that limited to 600 units in Sportback and 250 in Sedan. It is available with all current engines, in five body colors and with closed equipment. It has details of functional and aesthetic equipment, as well as the comfort package and other elements of the interior S line, such as upholstery, a multifunction plus steering wheel and decorative aluminum inserts.

It costs $1.000 more than the S line version, on which it is based. It's important to note that we save 65% on equipment compared to selecting all of this edition's additions individually. It is available from 32.120 euros with the 30 TFSI engine.

Audi A3 Sportback Prices

Gallery Audi A3 Sportback

More information about this model

Audi A3

• Plazas 5
• Power 150 - 333 hp
• Consumer goods 5,1 - 8,4l/100km
• Assessment 4,3