Audi A3 Sedan

Audi A3 Overview

The third generation Audi A3 sedan facelift was officially introduced by Euromobil Malaysia back in 2019, replacing the outgoing 2014 Audi A3 that went through a couple of different iterations since its first introduction.

Being part of the Volkswagen Group, the Audi A3 shares the same MQB (Modular Transversal Toolkit) Platform that also underpins the Volkswagen Golf. The highly versatile modular platform allows manufacturer under the VW group to apply the same transverse, front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout (or optional four-wheel-drive) on different vehicles ranging from superminis to mid-size SUVs under the VW group.

In other markets, the multifaceted Audi A3 is available in different body styles like the A3 Sportback, A3 2-door, A3 Cabriolet, A3 Sportback e-Tron, and not to mention the performance variant like the S3 and the RS3. Unfortunately for us in Malaysia, the 1.4 TFSI sedan will be the sole variant on offer officially by Euromobil Malaysia with no Quattro option available.

Directly imported from Germany with a price tag of RM 231,359.80 (OTR without insurance), the Audi A3 sedan is priced dangerously close to the compact executives like the BMW 3 Series. Competitions like the Mercedes A Class sedan and the new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe are both cheaper in comparison.

Audi A3 Design

The 2019 Audi A3 now comes with a sharper and more angular signature single frame grille, flanked by a pair of redesigned LED headlamps that no doubt draw inspiration from the larger B9 Audi A4. The front fascia is now more in line with the new and more aggressive Audi’s family design language.

Audi has always been known for their clean and understated exterior design. Subtle body lines accentuate the Audi A3’s muscular taut surfaces. Pronounced wheel arches gives the car a wider stance and that sporty appearance. 18-inch 5 twin-spoke contrast grey alloy wheels with 225/40 tyres comes fitted as standard.

The slopping C-pillar with a short rear overhang gives the car a coupé like silhouette. The slightly redesigned rear LED taillights with dynamic indicator now looks even smarter despite with minimal design changes, testament to Audi’s craftsmanship when it comes to lighting design and technology.

Audi A3 Dimension

The Audi A3 is a small car and there is no hiding the fact. On paper, it is significantly shorter than its closest rivals and only just as wide as the Mercedes A Class sedan. It also has the shortest wheelbase amongst its competitors.

Audi A3 Interior

What immediately stands out as you step into the car, is the fully digital Audi Virtual Cockpit. The instrument cluster, complete with a high-resolution 12.3-inch display, provides a more advanced overview, paired with intelligent technologies like the MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch and Voice Control.

The driver gets a 3-spoke leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel similar to the ones found in the sporty Audi TT, minus the fact that it is not flat-bottomed. Towards the dash, you are greeted with a new and thinner 7-inch retractable infotainment display controlled using the MMI Touch.

In typical Audi Fashion, the dashboard is neatly designed and well put together with the centre console slightly oriented towards the driver. The signature Audi incredibly tactile buttons and rotary switches are also present, even on the turbine style aircond vents.   

Combination of leather upholstery and soft touch materials with micro metallic silver trim elevates the premium feel of the cabin. Both front seats get power adjustable function with four-way lumbar support. Occupants at the back get rear aircond vents, which sits on top of a rather huge transmission tunnel that gets in the way of rear occupant footwell space.

The space at the back is lacking to say the least. Leg room is marginal and head room is compromised due to the slopping roof line. Not ideal for carrying full size adults on a long journey. That said, the boot space is surprisingly spacious at 425 litres, more than the one in the Mercedes A Class sedan.

Audi A3 Features

The 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit with integrated MMI Navigation PLUS allows for a more comprehensive overview of your drive without having to take your eyes off the road for too long. A retractable 7-inch infotainment display can be stowed for a cleaner look of the dashboard.

The Audi A3 also comes equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control, Audi Drive select, Comfort Key and keyless entry as standard.

In terms of safety, the Audi A3 gets 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic vehicle immobilization device, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and ISOFIX child seat with top tether. Driver assistance like the Parking aid plus with rearview camera, automatic wipers and automatic headlights are also available.

The lack of Advanced Driver Assistance System or ADAS onboard is concerning especially compared to its more updated rivals. Safety features like the Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist or Front Collision Warning are all absent, not even a Blind Spot Monitoring system.

Audi A3 Driving Performance

Engine

The Audi A3 sedan 1.4 TFSI is powered by a 1.4-litre 4-cylinder inline turbocharged petrol engine with direct fuel injection, developing 152 PS at 5000 RPM and 250 NM of torque from 1500 RPM. 0-100km/h is achieved in 8.2 seconds with a top speed of 224km/h.

Switching between different driving modes in Audi Drive Select, Dynamic being the sportiest setting, alters the urgency in power delivery and the response to driver input.

Transmission

Power is sent to the front wheels via a 7-speed S Tronic dual-clutch transmission. The S Tronic combines the efficiency and sportiness of a conventional manual gearbox with the convenience of a modern automatic. Shifts are quick and seamless between gears although gear changes can be slightly hesitant in stop-and-go traffic.

Dynamic Shift Program (DSP) adapts to the driver’s individual driving style and independently determines the optimum shift point. Tiptronic allows driver to make gear changes that suits your driving style using the gear lever.

Audi A3 Ride Comfort

Based on the Volkswagen Group MQB platform, the Audi A3 suspension system strikes a great balance between comfort and sportiness. Despite being a front wheel drive car, the car feels light on its feet and eager to change direction, largely thanks to its lightweight (1,245 kg) body construction.

The ride is supple without being too soft. And although without the Audi Quattro system, the Audi A3 holds itself well in the corner. The steering weight (can be altered using Audi Drive Select) is well judged for different driving conditions. Paired with a quiet engine noise and a well-insulated interior, refinement is second to none.  

Audi A3 Fuel Consumption

Audi claimed a combined fuel economy of 4.9 l/100 km with emission figures at 114g of CO2 per km.

Audi A3 Conclusion

The Audi A3 is no doubt a very capable and smart looking compact c-segment sedan. It is beautifully built and performs well considering the little 1.4 litre engine that punch well above its weight. But at this price point, certain level of equipment and features are to be expected but are nowhere to be found onboard. The all-new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is better equipped and costs almost RM 20,000 less. And the Volkswagen Golf which essentially are identical underneath, is a whopping RM70,000 cheaper. Perhaps the newly launched fourth generation Audi A3 will be able to give its rivals in Malaysia a good run for its money. But until then, Malaysians will have to bear with the older generation Audi for a little while longer.