2017 Audi A3 Coming To India In April

One of the most inexpensive Audis, the A3, is all set to come to India with a new look. Yes, that's right, folks! The 2017 Audi A3 is all set to be launched in India on April 6, 2017. Interestingly, the facelifted A3 will be Audi's third launch in 2017, the first two being the 2017 A3 Cabriolet and 2017 A4 diesel. The A3 is Audi's entry-level sedan in India and in its facelifted form, it will come with not just cosmetic changes but new features and a new petrol engine too.

The A3 retains the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder TDi diesel engine that makes 143PS power and 320Nm torque. This engine comes paired to a six-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. The claimed fuel efficiency for the diesel engine is 20.38kmpl. The 1.8-litre TFSi petrol engine has been swapped out in favour of a smaller 1.4-litre turbocharged, direct injected four-cylinder TFSi unit. This engine makes 150PS power, as compared to 180PS of the old motor, while the torque output remains the same at 250Nm. The new engine comes mated to a seven-speed S-Tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends engine power to the front wheels. However, no paddle shifters are offered, even as an option. The claimed fuel efficiency of the 1.4-litre petrol is 19.2kmpl, which is a result of the cylinder-on-demand technology (two cylinders of the engine are shut off under light loads).

The facelifted Audi A3 sports cosmetic changes such as larger hexagonal grille than before and new LED headlamps (though they are not standard fitment) with LED daytime running lights. The front bumper has larger air intakes. The rear gets get a new bumper and refreshed LED tail lamps with dynamic turn indicators like those on the A4. Rounding up the changes on the exterior front are the new 16-inch alloy wheels.

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Inside, not much has changed in the 2017 Audi A3. First off, you will be able to choose between beige-black or all-black colour schemes. A three-spoke steering wheel replaces the four-spoke one on the older car. There is a wireless charger in one of the storage spaces up front but it will work with certain smartphones only. The India-bound A3 will give the Virtual Cockpit a miss, replaced by a retractable MMI infotainment unit. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality has not been included in the infotainment system.

Will all these changes make the 2017 Audi A3 a better rival to the Mercedes-Benz CLA? Come April, let's see what Audi has in store for us with the new A3.

Recommended Reads:

2017 Audi A3 First Drive Review

A4 Diesel Launched At Rs 40.20 Lakh

2017 Audi A3 Cabriolet Launched At Rs 47.98 Lakh