In Europe, the Audi A3 is being redesigned both technically and visually. The updates mainly focus on the interior design, integration of panoramic displays, and an expanded lineup of driver-assistance systems. The update applies to all body styles and powertrain variants of the compact-car range, including the sport-focused S3 and RS3.
Redesigned interior
At the heart of the A3’s interior update is a new cockpit layout with a so-called curved display. It has an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and a 12.8-inch MMI panoramic display. A sweeping trim inlay on the dashboard, running from the instrument cluster to the passenger side, creates a continuous horizontal design line.
On the left, you can see the new cockpit; On the right, the previous version. It is clear that, unfortunately, the climate controls lose their physical buttons. Actual buttons were also used on the steering wheel before.
According to Audi, the interior can be configured with four material options, including carbon fiber, Dinamica microfiber, and two textile fabrics called Impressum Black and Light Crepe. The center console has been revised, so the phone storage compartment is now on the driver’s side.
It includes a wireless charging function rated at 25 watts. The steering wheel uses a mechanical roller within the multifunction controls. Buyers can choose between two double-spoke designs and three-spoke wheels flattened at the top and bottom for the S-Line and S models.
Extended Driver-Assistance Systems
Available driver assists have been reorganized and offered in three package levels: Tech, Tech Plus and Tech Pro. Integrated Adaptive Driving Assistant Plus combines adaptive cruise control with active lane guidance at speeds up to 130 mph. On models with automatic transmission, the system manages longitudinal and lateral control using lane markings, road verges and surrounding traffic.
It also enables automatic lane changes on highways after a turn signal is activated, as well as automatic slowing down at a red light and stopping again when the light turns green. For the first time, the system uses swarm data to adjust speeds according to the average traffic speed on a given section of route.
11
Source: Audi
Using online data, lane guidance can be used in urban and rural areas even when lane boundaries are not clearly visible. This data-based feature is included at no cost for three years from delivery, and can then be extended for a fee.
For parking maneuvers, four wide-angle surround cameras provide a three-dimensional 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings in the MMI. The Park Assist Plus and Pro systems recognize parking markings via camera and can autonomously steer the vehicle in parallel and perpendicular spaces, controlling steering, acceleration, braking and gear changes.
Park Assist Pro additionally offers a remote function that lets the driver control parking in and out of the vehicle through a smartphone app. A new feature called Trained Parking also allows five Individual parking maneuvers – each up to 164 feet long – to be automatically stored and replayed.
Connectivity and digital add-ons
Through app connectivity, drivers can remotely check vehicle status information, including parking location, lock status, window and light status, as well as odometer readings, fuel level, tire pressure, oil level and service intervals. Along with locking and unlocking, the auxiliary heater can also be controlled via smartphone.
Through the “Functions on Demand” program, some software-based features can be activated later for a fee, including a package designed to optimize audio playback and the virtual surround-sound function.
Body styles and powertrains
There are no changes to the body style or powertrain: in addition to the Sportback and sedan, the range includes an A3 Allstreet crossover model available from spring 2024, with about 1.2 inches of extra ground clearance and off-road-style design cues. The engine lineup includes gas and diesel engines offered in outputs of 114 hp and 148 hp.
23
Source: Audi
As a plug-in hybrid, the A3 e-Hybrid offers total system output 201 hp Or 268 hpWith a combined electric range of up to 89 miles on the WLTP cycle. The battery can be charged in about 30 minutes via DC fast charging, and maximum towing capacity increases from 661 pounds to 3,748 pounds.
35
Source: Audi
Both the S3 and RS3 Performance models feature quattro all-wheel drive and a torque splitter that distributes torque differently to the rear axle. The S3 is powered by a 328-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, while the RS3 uses a 394-hp turbocharged five-cylinder. Visually, the Sport models are distinguished by distinctive grille badges and their own digital daytime running light signature, with the RS 3 standing out due to its wide fenders. With matrix LED headlights, drivers can choose from Four Various designs of daytime running lights via MMI.
28
Source: Audi
Launch date and price
The refreshed A3 models will be available at dealerships from mid-September 2026. In Germany, the A3 Sportback starts at €31,850, while the A3 Sportback E-Hybrid starts at €45,350. Performance variants start at €57,200 for the S3 and €68,500 for the Audi RS3.
31
