Audi A3 entry price jumps by almost $10K

AUDI will introduce its new A3 Sedan and Sportback range to Australian showrooms early next year with the cost of entry to the model range increasing by a stark $9700.

The 2022 A3 range now starts with the 35 TFSI Sportback at $46,300 – an increase of $9700 over the outgoing entry model, the 30 TFSI, however when compared spec-for-spec with the existing range, the new entry model more closely competes with current mid-spec 35 TFSI S, meaning a relative price increase of just $5600. 

The A3 line-up is joined by the 40 TFSI quattro S line from $52,900 which closely matches the retail price of its predecessor – sedan models jump in price by $900.

Despite the price increase, Audi still manages to undercut both of its direct competitors in the segment – the BMW 1 Series 118i priced and Mercedes-Benz A-Class A180 which are priced from $47,570 and $48,720 respectively.

A3 35 TFSI models are powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with cylinder-on-demand and mild-hybrid technology which develops 110kW/250Nm while sipping between 4.9-5.0 litres of fuel per 100km on the combined cycle depending on the body style.

Mid-tier A3 40 TFSI quattro S line models feature a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine developing 140kW/320Nm. Depending on body style, the variants are capable of consuming as little as 6.7 and 6.6L/100km respectively.

Both A3 models will be topped by the S3 Sportback and sedan, which start from $69,900 for the former and $72,400 for the latter.

Standard equipment across the entry-level A3 35 TFSI range now extends to 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, LED headlights, wireless phone charging pad, and Audi’s 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit instrument array. Sportback variants add a powered tailgate.

The 10.1-inch central infotainment screen accesses wireless Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity, Android Auto connectivity via cable, DAB+ digital radio reception, and proprietary satellite navigation. The myAudi smartphone app allows access to additional features, including remote lock/unlock, emergency calls, and Audi Service request.

Higher grade A3 40 TFSI quattro S lines add Audi Sport 18-inch alloys, Audi drive mode selector, Audi luggage compartment package, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, interior LED ambient lighting package, and sports seats. 

Safety equipment extends to AEB with cyclist and pedestrian detection, cruise control, lane keeping assistant, reversing camera, and tyre pressure monitoring as standard across the range. Left-hand drive versions of the Audi A3 scored a five-star safety rating under Euro NCAP’s strict new crash testing criteria.

All A3s are available in a choice of 12 paint colours and three interior colour schemes.

Audi Australia backs the A3 range with a comprehensive five-year service plan package priced at $2250.

“The all-new Audi A3 promises to be a stunning evolution of its remarkable reputation as a premium compact vehicle. The A3 established its own segment 25 years ago, and since then has consistently elevated the benchmark for others to follow,” Audi Australia managing director Paul Sansom said.

“In the newest generation, contemporary design, excellent fuel efficiency technologies and a new, fully connected user interface are hallmarks of the latest A3's innovations.”

The new 2022 Audi A3 35 TFSI and 40 TFSI quattro S line Sedan and Sportback models will be in local showrooms from early next year, or are available to order online via audi.com.au.

2022 Audi A3 pricing*

*Excludes on-road costs