2021 Audi A3 Sedan Introduces New Design and Technology

Audi’s smallest model looks more mature.

The most recent AudiA3 was the first to abandon the hatchback design in favor of a sedan-only design, which allowed it to stand out more from the platform-sharing Volkswagen Golf. The U.S.-market Audi A3 retains its four-door form, but has a more modern design language and a completely overhauled cabin, which includes the latest infotainment tech.

The new Euro-only A3 hatchback was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show a few weeks back. The sedan is a resemblance to the hatch but with some noticeable changes beyond the C-pillar. The new design is more angular with sharp headlights, a hexagonal grille and a large grille. There are also two non-functional intakes. Around the back, the sedan looks very similar to its predecessor. It has a similar taillight design to the Q3 crossover. This model should be a good choice if you like the A3. We’re looking forward to the spicier S or RS versions.

The interior is a stronger departure from the A3’s current design, and features a more sophisticated interior. The new Audi model ditches the pop up infotainment screen in favor of a 10.1 inch display embedded into the center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto pairing are standard features, and an option upgrade to the MMI navigation system is available. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital gauge cluster is now standard on the 10.3-inch screen. An optional 12.3-inch cluster, and a head-up display, are available on the options sheet.

The A3’s interior is not only impressive with its large tech upgrades. It also features a hexagonal design theme, which was made cool by the Lamborghini Huracan on the door panels and air vents. The center console is akin to the MK8 Golf or GTI, with its shift-by-wire selector and engine stop/start button.

We are not yet able to confirm the powertrain details of the U.S.-market cars, but we can assume a newer turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder and a seven speed dual-clutch. In recent weeks, we’ve seen prototypes of the S3 as well as RS3 versions. Audi has also suggested that a plug-in E-Tron model might be in the future. The new A3 will come in a variety of colors and have a range of powertrain options.

The A3 sedan’s first look shows promise and potential for increased aggression. The base model is aggressive and comes with a slew of tech upgrades that make it a worthy competitor for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class , and BMW 2Series Gran Coupe. Audi expects deliveries to begin later in the year, barring any production delays. Pricing information will be available around that time.