Audi A3 - In depth & Hidden Features

When you think of Audi, it's likely that luxurious vehicles come to mind. Luxury is always included with the brand name, but luxury isn't everything they do well. The Audi A3 is one of their most popular models, and for a good reason. They are gorgeous vehicles with many features that make them stand out from other cars in their class. This article will explore why the Audi A3 is an excellent choice for drivers interested in performance and style.

The Audi A3 is a vehicle that has undergone many changes over the years. They have been on the market for over 25 years, and there are new models coming out every year. But where did it all start, and how did the A3 become the stunner it is today?

First Generation - The Birth Of Audi A3 1996 - 2005

The Audi A3 is one of the most popular cars on European roads. With its 1996 launch, it quickly became a sought after vehicle for those who wanted something new and different from their traditional sedans or coupes because this hatchback offered practicality with style in addition to being fuel-efficient. It could seat five people comfortably thanks to an overhead console that folds down between seats, as well as features like dual front captain's chairs where you can doze off while driving if need be! A 1999 version came out called the S-line model, which included more luxurious materials available at extra cost; many would say these were worth every penny considering how stylish they make your ride feel even during highway miles (or kilometres).

Elsewhere in the range, powertrains included 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol engines as well a diesel option for those who wanted more torque at their disposal. Each engine was available in both MFA states, with prices starting around £14K, rising up to £24665 when you got your hands on one of these fabulous first-generation cars! As popularity grew, so did demands resulting from this beautiful ride by Audi themselves, giving us minor cosmetic tweaks like new front lights or refreshed interiors while adding even better fuel efficiency without having to sacrifice performance.

Second Generation - 2005-2013

The second-generation A3 brought a refreshing new look to the motor industry table with an added dash of new variants. The five door model would now be called Sportback, and there was also an addition for those who wanted something more special, namely convertibles! This first came to fruition when they became available at dealerships across Europe just two years after launch - proving popular amongst buyers alike not only for functionality but style too.

A mere year later, a five-door Sportback returned to the motor scene. But for those in North America, it became the only version of the A3 offered to their market. The fastest A3, namely the S3, made another debut but soon relinquished its title to its successor in the fast and furious lane - RS3. This hot number proved that its bite is worse than its bark because, under the hood, it sported the Audi 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine. Using the Quattro all-wheel-drive system, it shoots its power to all four wheels. Although the S3 boasted 261bhp from its 2.0-litre petrol engine, the RS3 showed who's king with a seven-speed S Tronic transmission, widened track and of course, 335bhp.

Showing off in the variants department compared to the first generation A3, the powertrains available in petrol are the 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.2-litre while the diesel is 1.6, 1.9 and 2.0-litre. Coming in at an affordable price of £14,825 at launch, you can easily fit in the driver seat of the A3 or even speed out with an RS3 at £39,505.

Third Generation - 2012-2020

Starting off the third generation hype, the A3 launched with a three and five-door model. But 2013 is when things became interesting when the A3 decided to cut into the executive saloon sector with their Saloon body style A3 added to their repertoire. Sporting this body style, the S3 and RS3 also received an updated equipment and powertrain better than the previous gen. Not only hot to look at, but their engines also left you breathless. With the S3 296 bhp pulled out of a 2.0-litre petrol engine and the mighty RS3 pumping 362 bhp from Audi's five-cylinder 2.5-litre engine. If the saloon body is not for you, you have your pick from hatchback to the S3 Cabriolet. You can pick your A3 style from £18,280 to just over £51,000 if you're settling on taking the RS3 Saloon model home.

Fourth Generation - 2020 - Date

Being in the motor industry scene for over 25 years and sold more than four million A3s worldwide, even Audi can not neglect to incorporate state-of-the-art technology in these beauties. From a 10.1-inch touch infotainment display to a 10.25-inch virtual cockpit, they make sure that these features come standard across the board. Proving that they also listen and observe their customers' buying habits, they forgo the three-door variant of the A3. Ushering in the fourth generation era with a five-door Sportback model with the Saloon version close on its heels.

The Audi A-Series is the epitome of compact luxury sedans and cabriolets.

• There are four unique models, including the A, S, RS & TDI.
• They offer top notch safety features like lane assist technology that gives drivers more control on their drive while also notifying them when they are in danger of leaving their lane.
• The Audi A series also offers programs designed to keep drivers safe when they are on the go, including driver fatigue alarm and speed limit display.
• These cars have excellent safety features but don't worry because you can still enjoy your ride with a top notch sound system!
• The Audi A series is also well known for its fuel efficiency.
• The TDI models are some of the most efficient vehicles on the market, with a combined rating of 44 mpg!

Some other popular features include:

• Navigation System
• AUX/USB Audio Interface I/O
• Bluetooth Streaming Audio
• Push Button Start/Stop
• Leather Seats
• Apple Carplay & Android Auto Compatibility

Frequently Asked Questions

How to connect Apple CarPlay to an Audi A3:

• First, turn on your Bluetooth and select your Audi MMI
• Your iPhone will then generate a pairing code. Tap on the Pair button
• Choose if you want to sync your contact with your A3 or not
• Then accept the request on your MMI screen
• After a few seconds, select CarPlay on your iPhone
• The Phone Apps icon on your MMI screen will then change to Apple CarPlay

How to connect a phone to the Audi A3:

• First, turn on your Bluetooth and select your Audi UHV
• Use the default pin of 1234. Tap on the Pair button.
• Choose if you want to sync your contact with your A3 or not.

How to connect Android Auto to an Audi A3:

• First, download the Android Auto app on your device
• Connect your device via a manufacturer-approved cable to the USB port in the centre consul
• The MMI will request to enable the Android Auto and to transfer data
• If you cancel it, it can be enabled later
• On your device, an explanation screen will pop up, accept and continue
• You will receive a successful connection message on your MMI
• For the first time your device is connected, more Android Auto explanation screens will appear on the MMI

To manually connect, select Phone App on your MMI:

• Select Connect devices
• Select the correct Android Auto device
• On your device, make sure it's unlocked and select any prompts that pops-up
• The Phone Apps icon on your MMI screen will then change to Android Auto

Which Audi A3 engine is best?

The A3 Sportback, with its dynamic petrol-electric drivetrain, will thrust from 0 to 62mph in 7.6 seconds and clock in at 138mph in hybrid running. But for the actual speed demon in you, the RS3, S3, and 1.8TFSI will get you at 6mph in just under 7 seconds.

Is Audi discontinuing the A3?

No, in fact, your much-loved A3 sedans, which are in current production, will be replaced soon with the well-anticipated 2022 models.

Is the Audi A3 fast?

Depending on the model you choose, the top speed varies. But all A3 Sportback are manufactured to at least hit the top bar of 120mph.

What is the cheapest Audi?

Audi's least expensive model is also their smallest model. The A3 base model starts out at just over £21,000 and up depending on the bells and whistles added.

How much HP can you get out of an Audi S3?

For the kings of the A3, the RS3, S3 and 1.8TFSI can get you 62mph in under 7 seconds.

Is the Audi A3 a sports car?

Although the standard A3 models have potent engines (and ranging more powerful the further you go on the line-up), the A3 Sport fits the "sports car" better with its sportier looks.