While much of the automotive world has pressed pause on its activities one German company has decided to launch a new product in the midst of the current worldwide coronavirus pandemic. Say hello to the all-new Audi A3 Sedan. This is the second generation of Audi’s smallest sedan offering and good news for local Audi fans is that the newcomer will go on sale in South Africa early next year.

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Larger and more tech

The Audi A3 Sedan has always been a stylish proposition, its lines and proportions working well at the size. This new car retains that sense of style with some neat detailing around the front. A large grille and hexagonal (borrowed from the Lamborghini styling kit perhaps) detailing make it appear very upmarket. As expected, the Audi A3 Sedan has grown a touch over its predecessor. Length has increased by 40 mm, 20 mm has been added to the width and it’s 10 mm taller. The new dimensions help create a touch more interior space. Audi quotes the boot volume as an unchanged 425 litres.

A sense of modernity has been added to the interior as well. A 10,1-inch display is set into the facia, rather than sitting proud, as was previously the case. The infotainment is the same high-definition display as found in new models such as the Q3 (read our driving review of the SUV by clicking here). It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while satellite navigation is an optional upgrade. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster now comes standard. The hexagonal theme seen outside has been carried into the cabin on the air vents and parts of the door panels.

Powertrain options

At the time of launch, there are three powerplant options. Opening the range is a 1,5-litre turbocharged four badged 35 TFSI. The 35 delivers 110 kW/250 N.m and can be fitted with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. When fitted with the automatic transmission the 35 model has a 48 Volt mild-hybrid setup that helps reduce fuel consumption. A 2,0-litre turbodiesel version is dubbed 35 TDI. It has 110 kW/360 N.m and is fitted exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Audi claims that this powertrain sips fuel at less than 4 litres/100 km. Expect Audi to add more derivatives to the A3 Sedan range, including high-performance S3 and RS3 versions.