Audi A3

Inside the posh cabin is a driver-centric instrument cluster with tons of immersive technology. The three-spoke multifunction steering wheel is the foreground for the fully digital instrument cluster. On the center of the dashboard is the 7-inch infotainment display compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment is partnered to a 10-speaker Audi sound system for the driving soundtrack while the ambient LED interior lighting help sets the mood of the drive. Seats wrapped in premium leather mechanically adjusts for lumbar support and driver comfort. The leather upholstery is matched by leather-wrapped gear selector and aluminum inlays to complete the posh vibe. The dual-zone automatic climate control air conditioning system is integrated with activated charcoal air filters to minimize allergens. But the round, protruding design of the AC vents is a bit awkward and looks dated with all the modern tech features.

The new 2020 Audi A3 sedan shares similar design qualities from the prior model but gets a sportier new look. First to catch the eye is the robust single-frame front grille flanked by equally imposing dual air intake on the lower side and a pair of full LED headlights with boomerang-shaped daytime running lights on the top sides. The dual crease on the bonnet and creases on the side not only adds to the aesthetic but also for aerodynamics. The rear side features a mid-rear spoiler and dual exhaust to round up the sporty appearance. On top are a shark fin antenna and a panoramic sunroof that allows for natural light to penetrate the cabin.

The A3 luxury sedan measures 4,458 mm long, 1,415 mm tall, 1,961 mm wide, and has a wheelbase of 2,637 mm. This subcompact executive saloon rides on a set of 18-inch 5-arm-trapezoid design high-gloss black finish rims wrapped in 225/40 all-season tires. Standard exterior color comes in Brilliant Black, Ibis White, and Quantum Gray with seven other metallic shades to choose from.

When it comes to handling, the Audi A3 is a well-balanced sedan. The lightweight technology utilized by Audi uses a fully galvanized steel unibody with an aluminum hood and front subframe that removes unnecessary weight for secure handling. The speed-sensitive electromechanical power steering system that comes standard needs little effort when navigating roads or parking the car. Even when shifting on high gears, the Audi 3 remains easy to handle, responsive, and predictable.

In terms of riding comfort, the suspension system, handled by MacPherson on the front and four-link at the rear helps maintain balance, coupled that with interior refinement makes for a smooth and cushioned ride. At least for the front passengers as the rear cabin feels tight for three grown adults with narrow seats and cramped legroom and shoulder room. But kudos for connectivity features (i.e. USB ports and Bluetooth) and cubbies for drinks and small items to keep the sedan organized.

The Audi A3 is equipped with two engine options: 40 Turbo fuel stratified injection (TFSI) and the 45 TFSI petrol engine. Both 1,984 cc engines are 2.0-liter 4 -cylinder, 16-valve DOHC with Audi valve lift system made with cast iron engine block, and aluminum-alloy cylinder hear. The 40 TFSI, engine option can deliver 184 Hp of output and 300 Nm of torque. It can go from zero to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds and can reach a top speed of 130 mph. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Audi 3 with 40 TFSI engine can deliver 27 mpg for city driving, 36 mpg for highway, for a combined driving range of 30 mpg.

The 45 TFSI engine, on the other hand, can churn out 228 of maximum power and 350 Nm of peak torque. It can go from a complete standstill to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds and can reach the same maximum speed of 130 mph. Because it is more powerful, fuel efficiency is a tad lower at 22 mpg for city, 30 mpg for highway, and a combined driving range of 25 mpg. Both engines are mated to the standard 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels while the top of the line A3 Sedan S line quattro comes standard with all-wheel drive technology. 

When it comes to driver-assist technology, convenience features, and safety, the Audi 3 is chocked-full of it. Standard driver-assist technology includes keyless start, stop and front door & trunk entry; rain/light sensor for automatic windshield wipers and headlights; cruise control with coast, resume and accelerator features; safety belt reminder for driver and front passenger, tire-pressure monitoring system, lower anchors and tethers for children, a rearview camera, and anti-theft alarm system with motion sensor.  

Active and passive safety features for this luxury sedan include a complete airbag system: driver and front-passenger advanced airbags, knee airbags, front thorax side airbags, and side guard head curtain airbags. The Audi pre sense—a safety system that provides preventive protection in emergency conditions based on camera detection, is included. The system issues warning when it detects that the driver is inattentive and automatically closes the window, pretense the seatbelts to keep passengers safe. The Audi pre sense front also comes standard which uses radar to detect crossing pedestrians, vehicles, or other obstructions in front of the vehicle. It gives an audible warning for the driver and even initiates hard braking when the situation calls for it.

For braking power, the Audi A3 is fitted with a ventilated disc at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. The stopping power is further enhanced by the anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake pressure distribution (EBD), brake assist, electromechanical parking brake, electronic stability control (ESC) with secondary collision brake assist, and traction control.

The Audi A3 lives up to its name of being a modern, luxury sedan. Its standout exterior quality coupled with modern tech and features makes it for a fun car to drive. But despite all its fancy features, the Audi A3 gets a dismal rating of 2.5 stars from J.D. Power’s predicted reliability rating. The below-average rating is due mostly on the prior model and the several recalls from the last few years which include fuel leakage issues, airbags deploying improperly, and gearbox malfunction among others. Still, the new 2020 Audi A3 is a polished, executive sedan that has been refined and built-in quality which enhances its feel-good factor.