Audi A3

Safety

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Euro NCAP test results
Audi A3, 3dr hatchback (1998)^[6]

Test	Score	Rating
Adult occupant:	25
Pedestrian:	12

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The first generation A3 received a Euro NCAP rating of 4 out of 5 stars.^[6] Their evaluation concluded "the column lock, adjuster lever and bracket presented hazards in the knee impact area for the driver. These could cause high loads on his upper legs and damage to his knees." The A3 also provided minimal protection for pedestrians, and received two stars out of a possible four.^[6]

S3 (1999–2003)

Audi released the A3-derived S3 in 1999. Only available as a three-door hatchback, the S3 was powered by a turbocharged 1.8 L 20v inline four-cylinder. Early models (1999–2001) produced 210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp), with later models (2001–2003) receiving variable valve timing which increased output to 225 PS (165 kW; 222 hp). The engine had a maximum torque output of 280 N⋅m (210 ft⋅lbf). The S3 was the first Audi S-series car to utilise a smaller four-cylinder engine.

The S3's quattro system utilises a Haldex Traction coupling to adjust the bias of torque distribution from the front to rear axle as grip requirements change.^[7] Due to this, the S3 typically operates in front-wheel-drive in most conditions

The S3 was sold in Europe, Japan, Mexico, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.

In 2002, the S3 received a facelift, receiving revised front wings, rear lights clusters, single-piece headlight and indicator units, and minor interior trim updates.

Standard features include xenon HID headlamps with high pressure washers and auto levelers, front fog lamps, 17" "Avus" alloy wheels with 225/45R17 tyres,^[8] electrically adjustable Recaro leather seats, climate control, an alarm and electronic stability control with traction control.

Options include a Bose sound system, boot/trunk or in-dash mounted 6-disc CD changer, metallic paint, 18-inch 9-spoke RSTT wheels, glass sunroof, centre arm rest, privacy glass (B-pillar backwards), auto-dimming rear-view mirror, parking assist, luggage net, heated front seats, cruise control, aluminium door mirror casings and part leather/Alcantara (blue/silver/yellow) combination seat coverings. Some of these items are standard in certain export markets.

Engines

The engines used in the Typ 8L range are also used in a range of other Volkswagen Group vehicles.

Initial release

At the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, Audi launched the second generation of the A3, the Typ 8P, designed by Gary Telaak during 2000 (however, the final design was frozen in 2001). Originally launched only as a three-door hatchback with four-cylinder engines, it featured a new automobile platform (the PQ35 platform), a redesigned and more spacious interior, new petrol engines with Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI), and standard six-speed manual gearboxes (except on the base 1.6 petrol and 1.9 diesel).

In mid-2003 the line was updated with two sports-oriented models, a 2.0 Turbo-FSI version rated 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp), and a 3.2 L VR6 engine (for the first time) with 250 PS (184 kW; 247 hp). Haldex Traction-based quattro on-demand four-wheel drive, and the S-Tronic semi-auto gearbox were introduced as options (quattro is standard on the VR6) on models with engines over 140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp).

In 2005 the "S line" trim level, offering new decorative elements, became available and the three-door A3 received the same front-end styling features as the Sportback model. For the first time, the A3 became available in the North American market, exclusively with the Sportback body, with the base 2.0 inline-four FSI introduced in 2005 as a 2006 model, and the 3.2 VR6 Quattro following.

S3 (2006–2013)

In August 2006, Audi introduced the second generation S3. Offered in three- and five-door body styles, the second generation—Typ 8P—S3 is powered by a modified and uprated Volkswagen Group-sourced 2.0-litre turbocharged FSI petrol engine, with a maximum output of 195 kW (265 PS; 261 bhp). As with all Audi S models, the design was done in-house by quattro GmbH. The engine features uprated high-performance pistons, revised boost/fuel mapping, increased turbocharger size (KKK K04) and larger intercooler. The most powerful form of this engine, and quattro four-wheel drive, makes for a 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) time of 5.7 seconds, and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Audi offers both six-speed manual and six-speed S-Tronic automatic transmissions with the S3.

The spring ratings and dampers were revised, along with the body kit. Like its predecessor, although badged a "Quattro" model, the S3 does not employ a Torsen centre differential (as in other common Quattro models), but instead uses the Swedish Haldex Traction system in its on-demand four-wheel drive transmission, due to the transverse engine layout.

Safety

More information Test, Score ...

Euro NCAP test results
Audi A3, RHD 3-dr hatchback (2003)^[13]

Test	Score	Rating
Adult occupant:	29
Child occupant:	35
Pedestrian:	8

Close

Euro NCAP tested a second-generation Audi A3 with front airbags, side airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, and load limiters as standard. Despite Audi increasing the protection inside the car for the driver and passengers, pedestrian safety actually got 33% worse compared to the first generation and Euro NCAP gave criticism for the car offering virtually no protection at all on the front end and scoring just one star from a possible four. "A poor result for a new car" was the verdict given for pedestrian safety after the test.

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  2003–2005 Audi A3 3-door
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  2005–2008 Audi A3 3-door
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  2005–2008 Audi A3 3-door
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  2005–2008 Audi A3 Sportback
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  Interior (Sportback)

2008 facelift

Audi introduced a number of changes to the A3 and S3 in 2008. These include revised nose and tail styling, with a modified grille and daytime running lights, common rail 2.0 TDI engines, seven-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission availability for the smaller non-U.S. engines, and optional "magnetic ride" adaptive shock absorbers. In addition, the range now includes an S3 Sportback model.^[14]

Also, a cabriolet version was introduced. It was similar in dimensions to the 3-door version, with a two-box design.

RS 3 Sportback (2011–2012)

The Audi RS 3 is derivative of the A3 Sportback with a 5-cylinder, 2,480 cc (151 cu in) turbocharged engine rated at 340 PS (250 kW; 335 hp) and 450 N⋅m (332 lb⋅ft), vermicular-graphite cast iron crankcase, seven-speed S tronic transmission with two automatic modes and one manual mode, Quattro on-demand four-wheel drive system, widened track to 1,564 mm (61.57 in), MacPherson strut in aluminum, lowered body by 25 mm (0.98 in), 19-inch cast aluminum wheels in machine-polished titanium styling (optional black with a red rim flange) with 235/35 front and 225/35 rear tires, 370 mm (14.57 in) front and 310 mm (12.20 in) ventilated brake discs, aluminum brake disk covers, four-piston fixed calipers in high-gloss black with RS logos, electronic stabilization program with Sport mode, flared front fenders made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), prominent sill panels and exterior-mirror casings in matte aluminum, roof spoiler, high-gloss black diffuser insert, two elliptical exhaust tailpipes on the left, black interior, sports seats upholstered in Nappa leather with silver contrasting stitching, inlays in Piano black finish or Aluminum Race colour, flat-bottomed leather multifunction sports steering wheel, choice of five body colours are available with an unlimited selection of custom paint finishes. Its acceleration is quoted as 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 4.6 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Optional features included front bucket seats, roof rails in matte aluminum look, styling packages in black or matte aluminum.^[18]

First deliveries started in early 2011.^[19]

Engines

In January 2007, the naturally-aspirated 2.0 FSI was replaced by a new turbocharged 1.8 TFSI engine rated 160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp). It is available in front-wheel drive only.

In late 2007, Audi introduced a new 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp) 1.4 L TFSI engine for the A3, replacing the 1.6 L FSI engine, and a new diesel "e"-model. The "e"-model, Audi's equivalent of Volkswagen's BlueMotion, is available with the 1.9 L TDI engine, and offers a more ecological car, with a CO₂ emission below 120 g/km.

Audi released two models of the A3 1.6 TDI for the European market. The first uses Audi's start/stop and energy recovery system, and produces 105 PS (77 kW; 104 hp). This engine achieves approximately 4.1 L/100 km (69 mpg_‑imp; 57 mpg_‑US).^{[clarification needed]} The second engine does not use the same efficiency systems and will produce 90 PS (66 kW; 89 hp) will get 4.5 L/100 km (63 mpg_‑imp; 52 mpg_‑US). They went on sale in June 2009.^[21]

In 2009, the 1.6 L eight-valve petrol engine was replaced by a turbocharged 1.2 TFSI engine already found in VW's Polo and Golf models. This engine is rated at 105 PS (77 kW; 104 hp) and 175 N⋅m (129 lb⋅ft), emitting 127 g/km of CO₂.^[22]

The A3 2.0 TDI clean diesel is a version of Audi's A3 2.0 TDI for the North American market, making it the second Audi TDI vehicle sold in North America, following the Audi Q7 TDI in 2008. It is a FWD vehicle with S-Tronic transmission with Hill-hold assist, Sirius satellite radio, Leather seats and steering wheel, Auxiliary audio input, Dual-zone climate control, 17-inch (430 mm) alloy wheels. The vehicle was unveiled at the 2009 North American International Auto Show. This US model would begin sale in the first quarter of 2010 as a 2010 model year vehicle.^[23]

In March 2011, the line-up was expanded with the introduction of a more powerful 2.0 TDI with 170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp).

The 2.0 TDI engine was included in the engines found by the United States Environmental Protection Agency to use software intentionally designed to turn off emission control systems except when undergoing emission testing.^[24] Models made from 2009 to 2015 were affected.

A3 Saloon (2013–2020)

The A3 Saloon includes a body 11 mm (0.43 in) wider and 9 mm (0.35 in) lower than that of the A3 Sportback. Other features include 16- to 18-inch-wheels (optional 19-inch wheels via quattro GmbH) and electronic stabilization control with electronic differential lock.

The vehicle was unveiled at the 2013 New York Auto Show.^[45]

The German model went on sale in late summer 2013. Early models include 1.4 TFSI (140 PS), 1.8 TFSI (180 PS), and 2.0 TDI (150 PS).^[46]

Delivery of the UK models began in autumn of 2013. Early models include 1.4 TFSI (140 PS), 1.8 TFSI (180 PS), and 2.0 TDI (150 PS).^[47]

In international markets like Pakistan, Audi has introduced it with a 1.2 TFSI engine. This has allowed Audi to bypass high import duties on larger displacement engines, offer the car at a competitive price, and become a leader in the imported luxury car segment.^[48] In Malaysia, the Audi A3 was launched in 2014 and sold as two models - a 1.4-litre with 7-speed S-Tronic automatic transmission, and a 1.8-litre with 6-speed DSG and Quattro all-wheel drive. The facelifted version has yet to be launched. In Singapore, the Audi A3 Saloon and Sportback are currently available as 1.0-litre turbo models only.

A3 Cabrio (2013–2020)

The A3 cabriolet model was offered starting in 2014. It has a three-box body style and a larger boot than the previous model (320 litres versus 260).

A3 Sportback (2013–2020)

The Audi A3 Sportback includes a wheelbase 58 mm (2.28 in) over previous model, 35 mm (1.38 in) longer than that of the A3 and a front axle shifted forward by 40 mm (1.57 in) over the previous model. Other features include a choice of 13 body colours (three solid finishes, eight metallic finishes, and two pearl-effect finishes), an optional high-gloss package adding accents around the windows (standard with the Ambiente trim line), six-speed manual transmission (optional S-Tronic) for all engine models, 16 or 17-inch wheels depending on trim line (optional 18-inch wheels), Audi drive select (standard with Ambition) with optional S-Tronic, and optional electromagnetic damper control system.

German models went on sale in February 2013. Early models include 1.4 TFSI (122 PS), 1.8 TFSI (180 PS), 1.8 TFSI quattro (180 PS), and 1.6 TDI. 1.2 TFSI (105 PS), 1.4 TFSI (140 PS), 2.0 TDI (150 PS), 2.0 TDI quattro (150 PS), and 2.0 TDI (184 PS) were available in later date.

A3 Sportback g-tron (2013–2020)

It is a version of the A3 Sportback with 1.4 TFSI (110 PS) engine powered by compressed natural gas or Audi e-gas synthetic methane; gas tank made of gas-impermeable polyamide polymer, carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP), glass fibre reinforced polymer; and an electronic gas pressure regulator. The synthetic methane was produced by waste product from a nearby Werlte biogas plant operated by power utility EWE.^[49]

A3 Sportback e-tron (2014–2018, 2020)

The plug-in hybrid concept car was unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.^[50] In May 2013 Audi confirmed its decision to produce a plug-in hybrid version of the A3, the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron, which was scheduled for retail sales in Europe by late 2013, and by mid 2014 in the U.S. and the UK.^[51][52] The A3 e-tron shares the same plug-in hybrid powertrain used in both the Volkswagen Golf GTE and Passat GTE. To charge the A3 e-tron, the Audi four rings logo is pulled along to reveal a charging socket.^[53]

The A3 Sportback e-tron is powered by a 1.4 L TFSI petrol engine that delivers 148 bhp (110 kW) and 184 lb⋅ft (249 N⋅m) of torque, coupled with a 101 bhp (75 kW) electric motor, which is integrated into the car's six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, for a total combined output of 201 bhp (150 kW) and 243 lb⋅ft (329 N⋅m). The plug-in hybrid has an 8.8 kWh battery pack that delivers an all-electric range of 50 km (31 mi) on the NEDC, and a total of 940 km (584 mi). The plug-in hybrid can reach a top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph) and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.6 seconds. According to Audi the car has an average fuel efficiency of 188 mpg equivalent and CO₂ emissions of 35 g/km.^[51][52]

After some delays, the A3 Sportback e-Tron went on sale across Europe in August 2014.^[54] The first 227 units were registered in Germany in August 2014.^[55] As of December 2015^[update], global sales totaled 12,994 units, of which, 12,945 units were registered in Europe,^[56] and 49 units in the United States, where deliveries began in December 2015.^[57]

Audi discontinued the A3 PHEV Sportback e-tron in Europe in November 2018.^[58] However, the model was briefly re-introduced at the end of 2019 for MY20, now called A3 Sportback 40 e-tron under Audi's new naming scheme. The revised A3 e-tron in the UK featured a different level of specification, losing the previously standard LED headlights but gaining Audi's virtual cockpit as standard. The revised model featured the same battery and drivetrain as before, now rated at 22 miles of electric range under the new WLTP test.^[59][60]

S3 (2013–2020)

The third generation Audi S3 is powered by a 2.0 L; 121.1 cu in (1,984 cc) TFSI (turbo petrol direct injection) inline-four engine, with an output of 221 kW (300 PS; 296 bhp) at 5,500 rpm and 380 N⋅m (280 lbf⋅ft) of torque at 1,800-5,500 rpm,^[61] with its redline at 6,800 rpm. It features new pistons with stronger bolts and new rings, as well as reinforced connecting rods with new mounts transferring the power to the crankshaft. The cylinder head is made of a new lightweight aluminium alloy designed with high strength and temperature resistance in mind. It has a combined fuel economy of 23 mpg_‑US (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg_‑imp) manual; and 24 mpg_‑US (9.8 L/100 km; 29 mpg_‑imp) with S tronic.

The engine weighs in at 148 kg (326 lb), 5 kg (11 lb) lighter than the previous generation. The S3 is capable of 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8-5.2 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (249 km/h).^[62]

RS 3 (2015–2020)

Details for the RS 3 Sportback were revealed in December 2014.^[35] It went on sale in the first quarter of 2015 and featured a 2.5 litres (2,480 cc) straight-5 engine with 367 PS (270 kW; 362 hp) and 465 N⋅m (343 lbf⋅ft) of torque. The RS 3 Sportback is equipped with 7-speed dual clutch S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive system. Scott Keogh of Audi of America said in April 2015 that he's "confident" we'll see the car come to the United States.^[63]

In 2017, the RS3 sedan or saloon was added to the line-up. In the same year, the RS3 was introduced to the North American market.^[64] The RS3 can be ordered with a fixed-suspension or an adjustable magnetic damper. Depending on the country, the RS3 can be purchased with different optional packages. For example, the Black Optic package includes high-gloss black 19-inch wheels, high-gloss black outside mirror covers, and a high-gloss black trunk lip spoiler, while the Dynamic package consists of titanium 19-inch wheels with summer performance tires, red brake calipers, and a sport exhaust system.

2016 facelift

After four years, the third-generation Audi A3 was given a facelift for the model year 2016, which also coincided with the 20th anniversary of the A3 name. The facelifted model was first unveiled through a set of official images in April 2016. The new A3 Saloon was given significant cosmetic updates, which were inline with the automaker's new design philosophy. As a result, the 2017 Audi A3 featured the Matrix LED headlamps that were earlier seen in the A8 flagship saloon and the R8 supercar. The front grille was also given a refreshed treatment that made the A3 look like the A4. Changes on the sides and rear were minimal, with only the taillights getting optional LEDs. There were multiple updates on the interior as well, with a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster screen placed behind a revised steering wheel available as an optional upgrade. Sold in Europe and released in the United States for the 2016 model year.^[65]

Safety

Euro NCAP tested a third-generation Audi A3, 3-door hatchback with front airbags, side airbags, seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters as standard and scored it accordingly:

More information Test, Points ...

Euro NCAP test results
Audi A3 LHD, 3-door hatchback (2012)^[66]

Test	Points	%
Overall:
Adult occupant:	34	95%
Child occupant:	42	87%
Pedestrian:	27	74%
Safety assist:	6	86%

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Engines

Audi RS 3

The highest specification RS 3 model is fitted with a 2.5-litre 5-cylinder producing 400 PS (294 kW; 395 hp) and 500 N⋅m (369 lb⋅ft), and has 0-60 mph (97 km/h) acceleration time of 3.8 seconds. It gets a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, or an electric S-Tronic gearbox. It also gets the new MMI infotainment system, with a 10.25 or 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a secondary screen of 10.1-inches. With the RS Dynamic package the speed limiter is removed, allowing the RS3 to reach a top speed of 290 km/h (180 mph).^[73] The US-market RS3 produces marginally more power than the European RS3, at a claimed 401 hp (299 kW; 407 PS).^[74] This is partially due to the lack of a petrol particulate filter for US model cars, as it is not required to meet emissions standards. The US-market RS3 instead receives a secondary catalytic converter.

In October 2022, the RS3 Performance Edition was introduced for European buyers. The boost was increased from 1.5 to 1.6 bar (21.8 to 23.2 psi), bringing power up to 407 PS (299 kW; 401 hp) and thus matching the peak power of the federalized version. Torque remained as before but across a slightly wider range.^[73] The (unlimited) top speed reaches 300 km/h (186 mph), a first for an A3 based model. Production is limited to 300 examples.^[73]

Facelift

Audi presented a revised version of the A3 on 12 March 2024. From now on, the hatchback will also be available as an allstreet variant, featuring a raised body and off-road trim.^[75][76]

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  Audi A3 Sportback (facelift)
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  Audi A3 Sportback (facelift)
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  Audi A3 Saloon (facelift)
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  Audi A3 Saloon (facelift)
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  Audi A3 allstreet