Audi A3 Sportback facelift (2024)

When it was launched in 1996, the A3 had a bombshell effect: chic presentation, impeccable interior, high-performance mechanics, two- or four-wheel drive, the German discovered a compact niche with premium shock compact BMW 3 Series E36, less practical and refined, and the first Mercedes A Class, with its unimpressive minivan style.

And the next two generations were able to maintain success against their peers, making clear progress (Series 1 and Class A sedan) but not quite in scale. Unfortunately, the fourth-generation A3, despite a very detailed design, did not show any real progress when it was launched in 2020, leaving more ground for rivals that have become younger. Worse: the finish seems backwards. In fact, even in the first year, its sales lagged behind.

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The changes are small compared to the previous generation on the right: we will focus mainly on the pixelated daytime running lights, the lower grille that leaves a honeycomb pattern, and the rings that surround the hood.

But the brand is determined to give a second wind to its younger partner: not only has it considered an “allstreet” crossover version, but the five-door Sportback and trunk sedan benefit from a slight facelift, gifted with revised equipment and materials. . Suffice it to highlight its interior features, first of all a certain feeling of welcome, and a variety of petrol, diesel and hybrid engines.

Unfortunately, despite the revised hoods, the furniture remains different, with the equipment mounted on the upper parts in the front but hard in the back. Moreover, if the rectangular design of the dashboard is completely original, the atmosphere remains calm, especially compared to that of its competitors. That said, good-sized screens always prove to be modern and easy to use, especially on the instrument side.

For others, there are no changes: there is enough interior space in the passenger compartment and in the trunk, as well as a shaped bench seat in the side seats. It remains to be seen if the pleasure is there, in petrol as in diesel. There is interest, because with entry tickets of €38,080 and €40,600, or €43,030 and €45,550 in the S line (+€565 in the 4-door sedan), the budget is high to say the least.

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