OVERVIEW
The highly regarded last-generation A3 sedan has been replaced by a brand-new 2022 model that has been completely modernized while maintaining the fun-to-drive qualities that made the previous model so popular.
Audi is doubling down on its compact car and giving it a richer interior, cutting-edge technology, and razor-sharp appearance.
German rivals like the BMW 2-series Gran Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz A-class are feeding consumers' appetites for small, luxury cars. An all-wheel drive is an option, a turbocharged four-cylinder engine is standard, and there are numerous driver-assistance systems available.
What Has Changed For 2022?
The entry-level Audi, which skipped the 2021 model year, is completely redesigned for 2022 and comes with more contemporary interior technology and sharper aesthetics. In North America, the Audi A3 will only be offered as a sedan; however, in Europe and other international markets, the A3 will also be offered as a hatchback Sportback.
Audi A3: Interior And Comfort
Inside the 2022 A3, Audi's designers have added more personality to the larger A4 sedan's more conservative look. The car's gauge display is flanked by two sizable air vents, and the top of the dashboard is lined with a stitched panel.
The offered sports seats have quilted seating surfaces and faux-suede upholstery. Although the A3's trunk should have enough room for an ordinary grocery store haul or a weekend's worth of travel gear, small-car storage space isn't often very generous.
Audi A3: Connectivity And Technology
A 10.1-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and WiFi hotspot functionality is included on every A3. Vehicle operations like door locking and engine ignition can be remotely monitored and controlled via a smartphone app.
The 2022 A3 will get one of Audi's distinctive digital gauge displays, a 10.3-inch one that will come standard with a larger 12.3-inch version optional. Head-up display, 360-degree parking camera system, wireless charging pad, and premium sound system should all be available technology features.
Audi A3: Engine And Performance
The 2022 A3 is powered by a 48-volt mild hybrid electrical system in addition to a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 engine. 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque are produced. With FWD as the standard and Audi's renowned Quattro AWD system as an option, everything is routed through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The most recent A3 we tested was a 2015 2.0T AWD model, so we anticipate the new model to be rough as speedy as that one. That vehicle needed only 5.4 seconds to reach 60 mph.
Although slightly more powerful, it possessed a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. FWD A3 models should logically lag by a few tenths of a second.
According to Audi, the A3's 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain improves performance and efficiency. The technology can deliver more low-end torque when accelerating from a stop for quicker response times. Additionally, it may enable the A3 to run without an engine when necessary, such as while coasting to a stop.
Audi A3: Pricing
The standard Premium variant of the A3 costs $33,900. There are few class competitors with a lower starting price. The A3 Prestige, the top trim level, costs $41,200. The S3 is a high-performance vehicle with a starting price of $44,900 for the Premium trim and $51,500 for the S3 Prestige.
Which One To Purchase?
Like other current Audi models, the A3 is available in Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trim levels. The mid-range Premium Plus model, which provides the best value in terms of features and cost, is what we advise. By upgrading to the Premium Plus, you may get extras like passive keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, memory settings for the driver, and a wireless smartphone charging pad.