U.S. Receives Updated Audi A3 Range But No RS3 In Sight

The recently-updated Audi A3 family has officially launched in the United States, complete with thoroughly revised designs, a suite of new technologies and driver assistance systems.

For the 2017 model year, U.S. buyers will be able to choose between the standard A3 sedan, the A3 Cabriolet, A3 Sportback e-tron and the performance-focused S3 sedan. The RS3 continues to allude the U.S. market unfortunately.

Design wise, the German firm has overhauled the A3 family to all adopt sportier and more aggressive looks. To achieve this, slimmer headlights and taillights are featured across the board as is a high-gloss singleframe grille. Additionally, the front and rear bumpers have been redesigned with bolder edges and lines and are complemented by a selection of new wheel design options.

Meanwhile the interior also welcomes a host of improvements including a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, a 10-speaker and 180 watt surround sound system in the sedan as standard, a selection of new aluminum trimmings and different six-way power adjustable front seats.

Also present in the new A3 range is the company’s optional virtual cockpit which utilizes a massive 12.3-inch display to replace the traditional gauge cluster. The infotainment system now supports handwriting-recognition technology while the optional smartphone interface provides owners with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Across the range is a standard rear view camera, parking sensors, active high beam headlights, lane assist, the pre sense basic system which prepares the vehicle for an impact, adaptive cruise control and blind sport monitoring.

U.S. buyers will have two powertrain options. The standard 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder with 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque comes standard on all A3 models while the S3 receives a more powerful variant of the same engine, instead offering up 292 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.

Prices start at $34,200 for the entry-level A3 Premium sedan and top out at $48,400 for the S3 Prestige.