Audi has revealed the pricing and specifications for the new Audi A3 and Audi S3 models, both of which have undergone significant updates for 2024. The A3 Sportback starts at £32,035, while the saloon version is priced slightly higher at £32,600. The more powerful S3 models will be available for order starting on May 15th, with prices starting at £46,925 for the Sportback and £47,490 for the saloon.
The standard features on the A3 include LED headlights, electric sports seats, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless phone charging, and voice control. For the first time, the A3 also comes equipped with Audi’s digital cockpit, front and rear parking sensors, heated seats, and three-zone climate control as standard.
The S-Line models add larger 18-inch wheels, ambient lighting, a flat-bottomed sports steering wheel, S-line styling cues, and sports suspension. The Black Edition models come with 19-inch wheels, fabric interior trim, a black exterior styling pack, and doors that project the Audi logo onto the ground when opened.
The new Audi A3 will initially be available with two powertrain options: the 35 TFSI 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol and the 35 TDI 2.0-litre diesel. Both engines offer 148bhp. A revamped plug-in hybrid version will also be launched later this year.
In terms of design, the Audi A3 has received a subtle exterior makeover to give it a more dynamic look. The front of the car features a revamped, wider hexagonal grille with the Audi rings now protruding from the top. The front also includes new side air intakes and a reshaped spoiler to create a lower appearance. At the back, there is a new bumper and diffuser unit inspired by the RS2 Avant.
Inside, the A3 now comes with Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument display and a three-spoke steering wheel as standard. The centre console has been redesigned to include an armrest and a smaller gear selector for the automatic transmission. The air vents and interior lighting have also been revamped, and there is an option for a new Sonos stereo system.
The Audi S3 has received a major upgrade for 2024, with an increase in power to 329bhp and the addition of a torque splitter system taken from the RS3. The S3 is equipped with features from the A3 Black Edition, including tri-zone climate control, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, voice control, and a digital cockpit. It also comes with S sports suspension, Quattro all-wheel drive, progressive steering, and a head-up display.
The S3 features Nappa leather upholstery, a black styling pack, and other sporty touches. The top-of-the-range S Vorsprung model includes adaptive dampers, a 360-degree camera, a panoramic sunroof, electric tailgate, carbon fibre inlays, and Audi’s powerful matrix LED headlights.
The S3 retains the Volkswagen Group’s EA888 turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine but has received a power boost and improved torque. The seven-speed automatic gearbox now has a more compressed clutch plate, resulting in faster shift times. The S3 also features a new turbo design that reduces lag during acceleration. The addition of the RS3’s torque splitter allows for fully variable torque distribution between the rear wheels, improving handling.
Audi has made other mechanical changes to the S3, including larger brakes, tweaks to the progressive steering system, and new suspension wishbones with stiffer pivot bearings for better wheel camber. The S3 also sits 15mm lower than the regular A3 and comes with Audi’s S suspension as standard.
Overall, the updates to the Audi A3 and S3 models for 2024 have focused on enhancing performance, handling, and technology. The new models offer improved power, updated design features, and a range of standard and optional equipment to cater to different customer preferences. With these updates, Audi aims to compete with rivals such as the BMW M135i and Mercedes-AMG A35 in the premium compact car segment.
