The Audi A3 is riding with much success around the world lately. Ingolstadt’s premium small car is 2015’s best-selling compact car in the world, which really is quite an achievement considering that the model was introduced four years ago in 2012! But the time has come for an update, and it’s a good one.
So, what’s new in the facelift? As always, the fascia gets some updated nip-and-tuck, with the front end receiving a sharper grille with updated Matrix LED headlights. Audi also introduced new engines for the A3, starting with the debut of an all-new 1.0-litre three cylinder turbocharged TFSI unit which produces 114 hp and 140 Nm of torque from just 2,000rpm
The 1.8-litre TFSI unit is now replaced by an all-new 2.0-litre TFSI unit that delivers 188 hp and 250 Nm of torque. The new engine is paired to a new gearbox too – a seven-speed dual clutch transmission which replaces the six-speeder of old. Meanwhile, the 1.4-litre turbocharged lump sits in the middle of both these offerings, producing a healthy 148 hp and 250 Nm of torque. New to that engine is Cylinder-on-Demand technology, where it shut downs two cylinders during less demanding tasks like city driving.
The facelift’s party piece goes to the inclusion of Audi’s ingenious Virtual Cockpit that is the new 12.3-inch full-colour TFT instrument cluster. This system comes integrated with all of Audi’s latest suite of driver assistance technologies, including active lane assist, pedestrian protection and traffic jam assist (optional).
The facelift applies to all A3 variants including the saloon, hatchback, Sportback and convertible. Audi Malaysia is currently offering the 1.4-litre and 1.8-litre turbocharged units, both available in saloon models. Should the facelift arrive here, it’s likely that the 1.8-litre TFSI will make way for the 2.0-litre TFSI. Seeing how BMW is offering its three-cylinder engine for the entry-level 2-Series and 3-Series models, could Audi join in on the fray by introducing the 1.0-litre A3? Perhaps not, but right now our guess is as good as yours.
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