Audi A3 facelift

Audi launched the A3 facelift in the country in April 2017. It is the mid-cycle update of the first-gen A3 sedan (based on the third-gen A3 hatchback), which was launched in India in 2014. Like before, the Mercedes-Benz CLA remains the arch rival of the A3 facelift. 

The 2017 A3 gets subtle styling upgrades, additional features and a new, downsized turbo petrol engine, which is borrowed from the all-new A4. Speaking of the additional features, Audi's Xenon plus headlamps are now standard in the updated model, while it can also be had with the optional all-LED unit. The similar tail lamps now come with a distinct LED graphic along with Audi's dynamic turn signals. On the inside, it gets a new three-spoke steering wheel. The infotainment system now comes with Audi's latest MMI unit and it also gets the Audi phone box (wireless inductive charging). Besides these, rest of the features and cabin elements have been carried forward in the updated model. 

As for the engines, the 2017 A3 comes with a brand new 1.4-litre TFSI turbocharged petrol engine (150PS/250Nm) with cylinder deactivation tech, which has replaced the 1.8-litre TFSI unit available in the pre-facelift model. It is mated to a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox and returns a certified fuel efficiency of 19.2kmpl, making it the most fuel efficient petrol offering in its price band. The diesel, on the other hand, remains the same – the 2.0-litre TDI (143PS/320Nm) –  and is coupled to a six-speed DSG automatic transmission.