Audi India has launched the 2017 Audi A3. It is priced at Rs 30.5 lakh for the petrol version (35 TFSI), and Rs 32.30 lakh for the diesel (35 TDI) (all prices, ex-showroom, New Delhi). It is the mid-cycle update of the sedan, which is based on the third-generation A3 hatchback (not available in India).
Technically, this is the first ever update of the A3 sedan, since the last two generations of its hatchback counterpart didn’t offer sedans based on them.
What’s New?
At the front, the A3 facelift gets Audi’s latest Singleframe grille, which is broader and features sharper contours than the previous one. The new headlights are sharper as well – notice the kink in the lower section that resembles the one on the new A4.
Audi’s Xenon plus units are standard in the updated model (no more multi-reflector halogen headlamps for lower variants), while you can also opt for full-LED headlamps. Internationally, the A3 can also be had with Audi’s Matrix LED headlamps.
The side profile remains identical to the previous model, save for the new set of 16-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, it gets new graphics for the tail lamps, and a subtly re-styled bumper.
On the inside, it gets a new three-spoke steering wheel, which has been lifted straight from the India-bound Audi Q2 compact SUV. The infotainment system now comes with Audi's latest MMI unit. It also gets the Audi phone box, which is placed in the centre armrest, and improves smartphone connectivity
Engine
The 2017 A3 gets a new, downsized petrol engine in the country, which is slightly less on power, but improves the overall fuel efficiency. The engine we are talking about is a 1.4-litre TFSI turbo-charged petrol motor, replacing the 1.8-litre turbo mill. It puts out 150PS of max power (a drop of 30PS), but the peak torque remains the same at 250Nm, and is mated to a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox.
This motor also features cylinder-on-demand tech, which turns off two of its cylinders when the corresponding output is not required, primarily for fuel efficiency. Result: the overall efficiency has gone up by nearly 3kmpl at 19.2-kmpl.
The diesel, on the other hand, remains the same – the 2.0-litre TDI (143PS/320Nm) – and is coupled to a six-speed DSG automatic transmission.
(CarDekho is one of the leading automobile portals in India, part of GirnarSoft. The site offers in-depth analysis, comparisons and reviews of the latest car launches in the country.)
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