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2017 Audi A3

New for 2017

For 2017, the A3 gets some styling updates, more technology features, and a new base engine.

Audi’s Smallest Sedan Is One Of Its Best

The 2017 Audi A3 is the smallest sedan from the popular German luxury brand, but it packs the same style and features of its larger siblings. Most automakers treat compact luxury sedans as cheap stepchildren, but Audi made the A3 just like its other sedans, only smaller. The compact size and nimbler handling might make the A3 one of the most enjoyable current Audi sedans available. 

Performance

The A3 rides on the same Volkswagen Group MQB platform as the VW Golf hatchback but offers a higher level of refinement and sportiness than that more pedestrian model. There is one notable change in the engine department for 2017 in the form of a new engine for base models.

A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine replaces the previous 1.8-liter engine in front-wheel drive A3 models. It produces 186 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, which is enough to get the A3 from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 130 mph. With the mandatory seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the A3 gets an EPA rated 29 mpg combined (26 mpg city, 35 mpg highway).*

Audi also offers a version of the A3 with its signature quattro® all-wheel drive system and a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine. All-wheel drive models get 220 hp, 258 lb-ft, and a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. In this configuration, the A3 will do 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and has the same 130-mph top speed as the front-wheel drive model. The EPA rates its fuel economy at 27 mpg combined (24 mpg city, 31 mpg highway).*

One final option is the performance-oriented S3 model, which also uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, six-speed dual-clutch transmission, and all-wheel drive. But the S3 has 292 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, so it can do 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph. The S3 is rated at 24 mpg combined (21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway)* by the EPA.

Features

The 2017 Audi A3 is a four-door, five-seat compact luxury sedan. Audi also offers an A3 Cabriolet convertible for those interested in top-down driving. The A3 sedan is available in four trim levels, priced starting from $31,200.**

Standard equipment on the base A3 Premium model includes Xenon Plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, power-adjustable heated exterior mirrors, integrated trunk spoiler, dual-zone automatic climate control, three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, leather seats, 12-way power driver’s seat, HD Radio™, and SiriusXM® satellite radio.

In addition to the applicable standard features from the Premium model, the Premium Plus adds heated front seats, Audi smartphone interface with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, two USB ports, and more. The Prestige model builds on that, adding Audi’s MMI® infotainment system with navigation, voice control, and handwriting recognition, Audi connect online services with a six-month trial subscription, and 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen® audio system.

Buyers can also upgrade to the S3 performance model to get its more powerful engine and other upgrades. Other available options include a Sport Package that adds special seats, Audi Drive Select system, flat-bottom steering wheel, and shift paddles, as well as different wheel options and a sport suspension system that lowers ride height by 15 millimeters.

Design

The Audi A3 boasts clear exterior styling that bears a strong resemblance to larger Audi models. The single-frame grille and LED signature lighting make it hard to mistake the A3 for anything other than an Audi, and the rest of the design is simple and refreshingly lacking in extraneous detailing. For 2017, Audi made some slight changes, including new headlight and taillight designs, and reshaped front and rear bumpers.

The A3 may be the baby of the Audi lineup, but its interior matches that of luxury sedans costing much more. A thick-rimmed steering wheel and well-bolstered front seats give the cockpit a sporty feel, while upscale features like standard leather seats remind you that you’re in an Audi. The central display screen that retracts into the dashboard is a cut above most competitors, too.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Audi A3 includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, Audi pre sense® system, and a rearview camera. Optional features include rear airbags, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, Active Lane Assist, and Side Assist with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Verdict

The 2017 Audi A3 continues to offer the style and technology of larger Audi sedans but in a more manageable package.

For more information or to schedule a test drive of the 2017 Audi A3, contact us online or visit Audi Silver Spring at 3151 Automobile Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.

**Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.

Image: Audi