Practical car buyers might look at the refreshed 2017 Audi A3 and see a cramped and overpriced subcompact, but it’s a completely different picture for someone with an exclusively luxury mindset. To them, the A3 is a handsome step up from more popular mainstream sedans, with value in the form of standard HID headlights, an extended-length sunroof, a badge that commands some status, and an attention to detail that feels more upscale than the significantly less expensive Volkswagen Jetta. Considering the A3 carries a starting price above $30,000, that’s the way it should be. We recently spent some time with a $33,535, front-drive 2017 A3 2.0T in the city, on the highway, and on winding roads to discover what Audi’s updated entry-level sedan is like.
Really, though, the way the power is delivered might be considered part of the A3’s character. The larger A4 feels more relaxed compared to the moderately sensitive brakes and throttle of the front-drive A3 2.0T. Although the A3 and A4 do share a few available features including that 186-190-hp engine and the fantastic Virtual Cockpit (a completely digital instrument cluster with available Google Earth satellite imagery), this isn’t a case of the same basic car being offered in different sizes.
Really, though, the way the power is delivered might be considered part of the A3’s character. The larger A4 feels more relaxed compared to the moderately sensitive brakes and throttle of the front-drive A3 2.0T. Although the A3 and A4 do share a few available features including that 186-190-hp engine and the fantastic Virtual Cockpit (a completely digital instrument cluster with available Google Earth satellite imagery), this isn’t a case of the same basic car being offered in different sizes.
The A3 isn’t as bold as the attractive Mercedes-Benz CLA, but I am still a big fan of the Audi’s styling. Tweaked a bit for a 2017 refresh, the A3’s styling is aggressive yet classic in a way that probably won’t lose its appeal in 10 years. The side-window arch introduced on the first A4 from the 1990s still looks good on the 2017 A3, which sports updated headlights and taillights, as well as a restyled grille, all of which look great. The 18-inch wheels on our test car—a loaner from a local dealership while a Motor Trend long-termer was being serviced—enhanced the car’s visual appeal when you’re looking to impress but not necessarily shout.
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