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2024 Audi A3 Sedan: New Styling and Performance – Even while the current version of the Audi A3, the fourth generation, may still be relatively fresh – notably in the American market, where it was introduced only the previous year – it seems that Audi is already working on an upgrade. Our covert photographers were able to capture a prototype of the 2024 Audi A3 Sedan that was disguised to hide some minor design tweaks.
The Volkswagen Group is currently working on mid-lifecycle modifications for its small vehicles, including the Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, and Seat Leon, among others. The fourth generation of the Audi A3 was shown to the public for the first time in 2020 and still seems pretty modern. It is clear from the amount of camouflage that is present on the shown test vehicle that Audi designers do not plan to make significant changes to the exterior of the A3, which can be seen in the image.
This particular test vehicle has the S Line package installed. Although the front bumper and fenders are covered in camouflage wrap, it seems that nothing else has changed at the front of the vehicle, other than the addition of a new ADAS sensor in the bottom area of the single-frame grille. Although it would seem that the bumper intakes and LED headlights are similar, there is still a possibility that there may be some small adjustments made later on in the development process.
As is the case with the overwhelming majority of facelifts, the profile is unaltered after the procedure. When seen more closely, the rear bumper has been updated to include reflectors that are positioned vertically and seem to be concealed under fake vents situated just above the diffuser. In general, the revised tail resembles the S3 more than it did before the modification. However, in contrast to the latter, we can not see any visible exhaust pipes, and it is unclear if Audi will continue to use the cosmetic chrome tailpipes seen on the current S Line model.
Overview
At this point, you are undoubtedly curious about the modifications that Audi plans to make to the A3 Sedan during the 2024 model year facelift. Now, with the help of these pictures, we have a very decent notion of what is going to take place. Everything that is concealed with camouflage is, as a general rule, either going to change or will be related to a component that has changed in some manner, shape, or form. This is the case regardless of whether the camouflage is static or dynamic.
The 2024 Audi A3 Sedan will get a new front bumper as part of its facelift, in addition to getting headlights that have been given a new design. The front fenders are also adjusted so that they can accommodate the new bumper from a design standpoint. In addition, the side skirts and the profile line on the doors, which runs from the front to the rear fenders, are also modified.
The rear fenders seem to be somewhat more muscular than the model that is now available, but this might just be a question of perspective; thus, you should not anticipate a factory-fitted widebody on the Audi sedan with the smallest footprint.
Moving on to the back bumper, there is also a little modification there, and the same can be said about the taillights, which are receiving a new inside graphic. Moving on to the taillights, there is also a slight modification there. However, there seems to be a cutout on the left side of the bumper. This is despite the fact that the exhaust tips are not visible from the back of the car.
This prototype is not an electric car, but rather a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) automobile with the exhaust system hidden inside the trunk. However, the range may come with various seats depending on the optional equipment, so it is not yet obvious whether those seats are intended to be standard equipment. The front seats seem to have been modified to a set that incorporates the headrests as an integrated part of the backrest.
Interior
Inside the vehicle, Audi may roll out software changes for the infotainment system, but the 10.1-inch touchscreen and the digital instrument cluster (10.25 or 12.3 inches depending on the model) will most likely carry over unchanged in terms of their respective hardware configurations. More advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) capabilities might be added to safety equipment, which could then be made accessible on cheaper trim levels.
In general, the next modifications that will be made to the Audi A3 range seem more like upgrades for the model year than a true facelift. However, the carmaker may put updated electrified engines under the hood, such as the 1.5 TSI Evo2 that was launched in the facelifted Volkswagen T-Roc, as part of a revamped portfolio of mild-hybrids and plug-in hybrids. These engines may be a part of the vehicle’s facelift. Another significant improvement is the introduction of a new crossover body style, which will most likely be marketed under the name All street. This new body style will be derived from the five-door hatchback and will have plastic cladding as well as increased ground clearance.
The next version of the Audi A3 may be released in 2023 or early 2024, which would push out the end of the fourth-generation model’s production cycle to at least 2027 or 2028. Audi is determined to maintain its presence in the tiny market with the next-generation A3, which is slated to become available near the end of this decade in the form of an all-electric vehicle.
Performance
Whether we’re talking about luxury or not, the Audi A3 is one of the smallest cars you can buy today. Because of its compact size, it gives the impression of being both light and agile, regardless of whether you are driving on a winding mountain route or navigating your way through a parking lot. Even though the steering is light and precise on the A3, it does not provide a strong sense of connection to the road. Equally excellent are the brakes, which performed surprisingly quick panic stops at Edmunds’ testing facility.
This engine’s turbocharging is something that appeals to us. The acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour takes 6.4 seconds, which is reflective of the fact that there is a lot of power in both the low range and the middle of the engine. The gearbox contributes to the vehicle’s improved maneuverability in town in comparison to that of other compact luxury vehicles. It switches gears quickly and smoothly. The entry-level Audi A3 is still a lot of fun to drive, despite the fact that more was invested in the more athletic S3 and RS 3 models.
When equipped with front-wheel drive, the Audi A3 achieves an estimated 32 miles per gallon on the combined highway and 31 miles per gallon when equipped with all-wheel drive. In any case, it is an improvement above what you will get from the Mercedes-Benz A-Class competitor or the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. On the 115-mile-long assessment route that included a variety of driving styles, our all-wheel-drive test vehicle achieved an amazing 34.7 miles per gallon.
Engine
Even while European versions provide a wide selection of drivetrains, the Audi A3 that is intended for the North American market only comes with one engine option: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 201 horsepower and is coupled to a 48-volt hybrid system. Drivetrains with front-wheel drive come as standard, but the four-wheel drive may be purchased as an option. Standard equipment includes an automatic gearbox with seven gears.
We were relieved to discover, during our short time behind the wheel of the redesigned model, that the vehicle has the same light and responsive steering that made the model of the previous generation so fun. As a result of the turbocharged four-cylinders powertrain’s lower horsepower rating compared to the optional 228-hp powerplant in the preceding model, the new car’s acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour takes 6.0 seconds rather than 5.5 seconds. Those who are interested in acquiring more power can think about purchasing the S3, which now has 306 horsepower.