Audi’s refreshed 2017 A3 model now brings more performance and new driver assistance systems into its hard-fought battle with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz CLA.
Audi USA call this the “best A3 yet,” and with the available virtual cockpit and now an entry-level 186 HP 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder unit as well, it’s adding brownie points to its basket.
For 2017, Audi has priced the A3 from $31,200 in the US, which will land you the previously-mentioned 2.0 TFSI version with front-wheel drive in Premium trim. Further up the food chain are the Premium Plus and Prestige versions, which are priced from $34,450 and $40,150 respectively.
In terms of kit, all A3 models get Xenon headlights as standard, with regular LED lights available as options. Buyers can also invest in some seriously modern active safety systems such as Adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, active lane assist and emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
As we said before, Audi’s 12.3″ Virtual Cockpit is now available on the A3 (as an optional extra), though the cars will still come with the smaller 7″ display that rises from the dashboard, offering access to the MMI interface.
Its main rival, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA costs a little more in entry-level form ($32,400), however it does come with a more potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-pot, rated at 208 HP.