2015-2020 Audi A3: What You Should Know Before You Buy
In Quebec, the small Audi A3 is the German automaker’s entry-level model. Redesigned for 2022, it’s now more attractive than ever, although only available in sedan format.
If you want more choice and a more affordable price, you should turn to the previous generation, sold from 2015 to 2020 (there was no 2021 model). To help you in your shopping effort, here’s what you need to know about it!
Several Versions
In the beginning, the Audi A3 was offered as a four-door sedan, a two-door convertible, and a five-door model called Sportback. The latter stood out from the lot with its e-tron hybrid drive, combining 204 horsepower with a 26-kilometre electric range. This feature was discontinued after model year 2018 however.
Three four-cylinder engines were initially available: a 1.8-litre turbo (170 horsepower), a 2.0-litre turbo (220 horsepower, or 292 in the sportier S3 version) and a 2.0-litre turbodiesel (150 horsepower). The power could be delivered to the front wheels only or to all four through the quattro all-wheel drive, while the main gearbox offered was a dual-clutch type.
Bye Bye Diesel
Despite its attractive torque of 236 ft-lb, the TDI was quickly abandoned during the infamous 2015 “Dieselgate” emissions scandal. This engine required more maintenance in exchange for a superior energy efficiency (6.5 L/100 km). Although diesel is currently very expensive, the other options require premium fuel, so the final fuelling cost difference might surprise you when you do the math!
It's also important to mention that the 2015-2016 Audi A3 with the 2.0-litre turbo engine was the subject of many complaints due to a spill valve that was getting worn or corroded prematurely, causing the engine to malfunction. You’ve been warned.
Sleek, comfortable, safe, well-built and fun to drive (its platform and several components were shared with the Volkswagen Golf), the Audi A3’s main downside was its cramped back seat. The trunk was not the most spacious either, with only 348 litres, and the convertible was even worse with a mere 280 litres of luggage space. For more versatility, the Sportback model’s trunk has 385 litres, which increases to 954 litres when folding the rear seats.
As for the trims, the Komfort is the entry level, followed by Progressiv and Technik as the range-topper. That’s the one that was equipped in 2017 with Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, a large digital screen located in front of the driver.
Happy shopping!