Audi has unveiled its mid-cycle refresh for the A3 line. With that, the 2017 Audi A3 gets more power and more personality.
The company has improved on the earlier model by revamping the A3's look. Also, engineers have reworked the ride-and-handling package.
The 2017 Audi A3 features the manufacturer's excellent 2.0-liter engine. It is a turbocharged-and-intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4 iron block (with aluminum head), that produces 306 horsepower and 295 foot-pounds of torque. This power is transferred to the rest of the drive train through a seven speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with a manual shifting mode according to Car and Driver's review.
The S3's handling was also improved by Audi engineers by tinkering with the suspension, steering, and the Quattro all-wheel-drive systems to give the driver a better ride. However, at a push of a button, can deliver tail-happy excitement from its four Drive Select modes: Dynamic, Auto, Comfort and Individual. All of which affect how the S3 performs
The 2017 Audi A3's exterior was also reworked to look more aggressive according to another review, from Slash Gear. It received a new, more angular grille with U-shaped ducting at the bottom to give it a sportier appearance. On both sides are Xenon, or optional LED headlights shaped almost, but not exactly, like arrow-heads pointing diagonally up and to the sides. Enthusiasts note that the near-chiselled body and flowing wheel arches is appropriate for a hot-compact such as this.
The new A3 gets a new Virtual Cockpit, optional S Sport seats and more trim, stepping away from the previous model's almost-bland, minimalist interior. The Virtual replaced the usual dials found in earlier and even some current models from other manufacturers. Audi says it can be viewed in two modes: Classic mode and Infotainment mode. This gives the driver four key areas of information; navigation, media, communication and driving information.
According to Slash Gear's same review, the 2017 Audi A3 is priced at $42,000 for S3 Premium Plus, $48,400 for the Prestige and around $52,000 with all options installed.
