Audi is gearing up for its first big release of 2025 with the impending arrival of the new A3.
The popular nameplate received a facelift in 2024 and was initially expected to appear at the end of last year, but its launch window has since been pushed back to this February.
What to expect
The new A3 gets a revamped exterior, complete with a wider hexagonal grille, larger side air intakes, a new front spoiler, and a redesigned rear bumper with a more aggressive diffuser.
The LED headlights are slimmer than before, and now incorporate 24 individual pixels arranged in three rows which can be customized into four distinct daytime running light patterns.
Inside, the air vents have been reshaped with a new chrome finish, and there’s an improved centre console with a more compact gearstick, integrated cupholders, and an armrest.
As for the model-specific changes, Audi has confirmed that the A3 will continue to be sold in both its Sportback and Sedan body styles, and that the Base and Advanced trim levels are being dropped entirely.
Instead, the S Line will serve as the starting point for the range going forward, which means customers can expect more equipment as standard.
The facelifted A3 now starts with 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless start, a flat-bottom leather multifunction Sports steering wheel, Sports seats, Dinamica microfibre upholstery, ambient lighting, a panoramic glass sunroof, a wireless phone charger, a Sonos 3D premium sound system, and two additional USB-C charging ports for the back row.
On the dashboard, you’ll find Audi’s “Virtual Cockpit” driver display and a 10.1-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
There’s also new driving assistance items in the form of lane-departure warning, emergency braking assist, and a parking assistant.
The other trim level making a return to the German car is the Black Edition, which as its name implies, adds a host of dark-themed cosmetic finishes for the alloy rims, the Four Rings grille logo, and mirror caps, and upgrades the interior to full leatherette upholstery.
At launch, the updated A3 will only be offered in its 35TFSI form, comprising a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 110kW and 250Nm.
This is enough to let it accelerate to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds, and reach a top speed of 219km/h.
The Audi also benefits from a seven-speed automatic gearbox, a front-wheel-drive system, and mild-hybrid technology, letting it achieve an average fuel consumption of 6.2l/100km.
While not officially confirmed at this point, it’s expected that the more powerful 40TFSI units will eventually make a return as well.
These models make use of a 2.0-litre turbo with 140kW and 320Nm, which cuts the 0-100km/h time down to 7.4 seconds, while the top speed is raised to 248km/h.
All versions of the A3 will continue to be sold with a 1-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100,000km Audi Freeway maintenance plan.










