New Audi A3 Sportback 2020: on sale in May from €29,070

The fourth generation of the Audi A3 evolves technologically to remain one of the most versatile premium compact cars.

The starting signal for the fourth generation of the Audi A3, which is initially presented with a Sportback body and a range of four engines, TFSI and TDI petrol and diesel, with outputs between 116 and 150 CV. It goes on sale in May, with a starting price of €29,070 for the 1.5 TFSI petrol version.

A sharper and sportier design

Externally, this new Audi A3 Sportback is no revolution if we consider the features of the latest Audi models. The Singleframe grille takes centre stage, integrated into very sharp lines with the new headlights and large air intakes.

As important new features, Audi highlights the new digital daytime running light when the optional matrix LED headlights are fitted, which includes 15 LEDs forming a very recognisable signature. The dimensions remain compact: 4.34 metres long, 1.82 metres wide (3 cm wider) and 1.43 metres high, with a wheelbase of 2.64 metres. Boot capacity is quoted at between 380 and 1,200 litres, with a load floor that can be set at two levels.

Inside, digitalisation reaches its peak, but with some good news: Audi keeps two rows of physical controls in the A3 Sportback, one below the 10.1-inch infotainment screen fitted as standard for the climate control, and another in front of the gear lever for certain functions.

The standard instrument cluster is also digital, and optionally the Audi Virtual Cockpit can be fitted, which in the Plus version takes the screen up to 12.3 inches diagonally. For the first time, Audi uses a special upholstery material, made from recycled plastic bottles.

New design elements that stand out at first glance are the two air vents placed in a raised position on either side of the instrument cluster, on a dashboard that generally stands out for its very angular lines.

Three output engines, electrified versions to follow

At launch, Audi will offer the new A3 Sportback with a 150 CV 1.5 TFSI engine and two versions of the 2.0 TDI, with 116 and 150 CV. In all cases the drive goes to the front wheels, and buyers can choose between a six-speed manual gearbox or the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox, which features a newly designed gear lever.

The WLTP homologated consumption figures for the 1.5 TSI petrol start at 5.8 l/100 km. For the TDI, the 116 CV version quotes consumption from 4.2 l/100 km, and from 4.5 l/100 km for the more powerful one.

Later on, although no date has yet been set, versions with quattro four-wheel drive will arrive, as well as electrified propulsion systems, which should include Mild-Hybrid versions and a plug-in hybrid.

As in the previous generation, versions with engines of 150 CV or more include a multi-link rear axle, more sophisticated than the torsion-beam trailing-arm system used on the less powerful versions. As an option, a damper-controlled suspension can be fitted, which also lowers the body’s ground clearance by 10 mm. The sporty S line suspension includes firmer settings, and in this case the body height drops by 15 mm.

Virtually all the driver assistance systems that Audi offers on its high-end models are also available for the new A3 Sportback, from adaptive cruise control to rear cross-traffic and parking assistants.

Audi A3 Sportback 2020 image gallery

Technical specifications of this car

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