Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 TDi 184 CV S-Tronic Quattro, test drive (Exterior design, interior and trim levels)

We continue going through the details of the Audi A3 Sportback road test, specifically a fairly performance-oriented diesel version thanks to its 184 CV and the Quattro all-wheel drive. Everything about the 2.0 TDI 184 CV engine, or about its handling and consumption, we covered in the first part of the test.

Now in the second part we turn to the design, an exterior line that stands out for its sportiness and the impressive wheels specific to the RS version. Inside, as always, it stands out for its quality, along with other details we will analyze in this second part of the test.

Exterior design

The unit we tested stood out for two aesthetic details. On the one hand, it was practical because it had rear doors, which are always useful for comfort when getting into the rear seats. On the other hand, it featured the S-Line trim , giving the car a sporty design.

The front catches the eye with its Full-LED headlights, with all lighting functions handled by LEDs, and a bumper with sharp lines and sporty features. In the centre, at the bottom, sits the adaptive cruise control radar; honestly, it is in a somewhat exposed position.

From the side, your gaze will go straight to the 18-inch alloy wheels, with a sporty design similar to those fitted to the RS. Completing the sporty look are the side skirts and the chrome roof rails. At the rear, the lines are simple, with the detail of the twin exhaust outlets on the left, while the headlights stand out for their LED technology.

Setting personal taste aside, if you are going to use the rear seats often, or if there are people with reduced mobility around you, the Audi A3 Sportback is more practical than the three-door version.

Interior design and trim

Inside, the dashboard was completely redesigned for the new generation of the Audi A3, which launched a couple of years ago. The design is now simpler, with the central screen controlling all the multimedia functions from the controller on the centre console (standard from the second trim level up). Personally, the controls (such as the climate controls) remind me somewhat of a retro feel, along with the air vents, but that is a personal opinion.

What is objective is the quality of the finishes, pleasant materials to the touch and good fit, and although the design is clean, that does not stop it being practical and having everything within reach. Returning to the air vents, I liked the function that spreads the air so it doesn’t blow directly onto your face.

The dashboard wraps around the driver and front passenger, the driving position is not especially roomy, but it is comfortable. Visibility is good, and the seats in the S-Line trim offer excellent support and several adjustments, such as the extendable seat cushion.

In the back there is enough space for two adults; the third will be a bit tighter due to the raised centre tunnel and the firmer centre seat. There are air vents for passengers, a 12V socket and a bit more headroom than the two-door version.

Storage and boot

In terms of storage, the Audi A3 had medium-sized door pockets, a large main glovebox and a medium-sized central bin where you can keep your things. Next to the MMI outlet, there was also a 5V USB port for charging a phone (though only for that; if you want to connect a USB device, it is done through the MMI adapter).

In front of the gear lever there were two cup holders, one of which had the perfect spot for keeping the key on vehicles with push-button start.

The boot has a capacity of 380 litres, a figure within the normal range for the segment; for example, the Mercedes A-Class offers 341 litres, while a BMW 1 Series has a capacity of 360 litres.

In the third part we will wrap up the test with an analysis of the equipment, the prices and our overall assessment of the model.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira

Technical specifications of this car

SedanAudi A337 versions · from 34,010 €