Jun 24, 2016 04:47 AM
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The A3 is a great-handling, handsome sedan(or convertible!) with an upscale interior and luxury features that set the standard for the segment.
Steering is precise, the ride composed; fit and finish are superb. A 170-hp 1.8-liter turbo four with front-drive and a six-speed auto are standard; a manual is not offered. A 220-hp 2.0-liter four with all-wheel drive is optional; 2015 and 2016 TDI diesels have been stop-saled until further notice due to EPA violations. An updated A3 debuts for 2017.
Speaking of those headlights, Audi now offers its matrix LED lighting system on the European A3, although this system is illegal in the U.S.—for now. There’s a possibility that NHTSA will approve the technology next year; the matrix lights are able to actively shade and illuminate certain sections of road. If these lights do get the, er, green light, expect to see them offered here first on cars like the next-gen A8 and the R8 before making their way to the A3, though, in the interest of maximum marketing impact. Until then, xenon headlights are standard on the A3, with conventional LED lights available as an option.
