Audi to launch the 2017 A3 in India on April 6

Audi will launch the 2017 A3 on April 6 in India. The 2017 update lends the new A3 a few cosmetic updates and a revised powertrain.

The refreshed A3 gets a new A4-style single frame grille upfront. The LED headlamps also take its cues from the bigger A4. The taillights get a sharper styling and dynamic turn indicators. Overall the car is well proportioned and looks a lot more aggressive than before. However, the A3 might miss out on the bespoke Matrix headlights which are offered internationally.

On the inside, the dashboard and upholstery has received an all-black treatment with plush leather, beautiful textures and decent quality of materials that maintain its premium look. In this top-spec variant, the A3 is well equipped. There is a seven-inch retractable screen for the MMI infotainment system. You also get climate control, powered front seats, front and rear parking sensors and a panoramic sunroof. The 2017 A3 also comes with a wireless charging box for your smartphone. However, the compact sedan missed on various features such as the Virtual Cockpit instrument cluster, start/stop button and keyless entry.

The major update for the A3 comes under the hood. The new A3 will have a smaller 1.4-litre TFSI engine developing about 150bhp of power and 250Nm of torque as it does in the Audi A4 and will replace the powerful 180hp 1.8-litre unit. The engine is mated to a seven-speed S-tronic gearbox. As for the diesel engine, Audi will plonk the popular 2.0-litre TDI mill in the A3 which produces 141bhp and 320Nm. The six-speed dual clutch automatic will send all of those power the front wheels.

The updated A3 is expected to demand a premium of around Rs 1-1.2 lakh over the current car. At that price range, it will compete with the recently updated Mercedes-Benz CLA, A-Class and recently facelifted Volvo V40.