2017 Audi A3 first drive review

Audi's most popular model in Australia - the compact affordable luxury A3(with Car DVD) line-up of sedan, hatch and cabrio - has scored a comprehensive mid-life recharge underscored by some slick technology and two new engine choices. Visual tweaks to exterior include a new, wider grille and standard Xenon headlights while Audi also offers optional LED headlights and, for the first time, Matrix LED headlights as well. It's all about ensuring that a more expressive, sportier A3 continues to perform its vital role of luring new and fashion-conscious younger buyers to the luxury brand. And keeping them in the family. Prices and final equipment levels won't be announced until closer to the late-2016 launch. But Audi will be sensitive to the value equation to make certain the A3 remains well in the fight with arch competitors such as the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and BMW 1-Series. The smart virtual cockpit display already seen in the more expensive Q7, TT and A4 has trickled down to the A3 where it will be a pay-more optional feature. Other key developments that are part of the upgrade include the fact that Audi has dumped its two diesel engines from the 2017 A3 line-up, citing an abysmal take-up rate by buyers (although the 1.6 TDI may be secured by special order). No, this move has not been prompted by the dieselgate scandal. The reality is that modern petrol engines are almost matching the economy of diesels. In that regard, Audi has also further rationalised petrol engine choices for the upgraded range, benching the 1.2 TFSI and 1.4 TFSI, but keeping the 110kW 1.4 TFSI COD (cylinder on demand) variant. The old A3 cabin trim nomenclature have been binned in favour of two new grades called Design and Sport. The S Line level, typically with larger alloy wheels, lower and sportier suspension, and LED head- and tail-lights, a sportier body kit and quality seat trims continues to sit atop the extras totem. What about install a Car Dvd Player？ The plug-in A3 e-Tron 1.4 hybrid Sportback gets LED daytime running lights and new e-Tron specific gauges. The performance S3 gets more power and the same broad improvements as the A3. As yet, there is no word on an upgraded RS3 hot rod. But the current model was introduced here only last October. Most interesting is the potential, almost audacious, offering of the turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine which Audi Australia wants here as a price leader for the A3, replacing the existing 1.2-litre TFSI engine. That decision will be made "very soon". A betting man would put his caravan if not the house on it, and it would go on sale at a price adjacent to $35,000. At this price it probably won't be weighed down with a long list of standard inclusions… Audi might have some trouble with consumer perceptions of a 1.0-litre three cylinder engine in a car at that price, but resistance may ease when a would-be customer gets behind the wheel for a test drive. If installing an VW navigation