Redesigned Audi A3 returns as a sharp sedan

Audi has redesigned the Audi A3 for the 2015 model year, focusing on a sedan variant for this generation. From the outside, the recast A3 is almost indistinguishable from its more expensive A4 sibling. It’s a handsome car with traditional Audi styling cues, just rendered a little smaller. The A3 competes with other entry-level luxury cars, such as the Mercedes-Benz CLA. But unlike the disappointing CLA, the A3 is fairly representative of the brand experience.

There are three four-cylinder engines available: the base 1.8T, 2.0 TDI (diesel), and 2.0T. Front-wheel drive is standard, with optional Quattro all-wheel drive. Starting at $29,900, bi-xenon headlights, leather, and panoramic sunroof are standard equipment on all trims. The hatchback will return with a choice of diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The rented press car we sampled has a sticker price of $37,195, and it is equipped with the 220 horsepower, 2.0-liter turbo engine, Quattro, navigation, upgraded voice control, heated seats, aluminum style pack, and iPod interface cable.

If you’ve driven any recent Audis, the A3 delivers a familiar experience, with a firm-yet-compliant ride, agile handling, and ample oomph from the turbo engine. In the A3, it’s coupled to a well-behaved automated manual. My only wish is that the A3 was available in a true stick shift. The engine is similar to the one in the Volkswagen Jetta GLI we tested a couple of years ago. In mixed driving, the trip computer shows us getting about 28 mpg.

A compact car, the A3 shares a platform with the coming new Volkswagen Golf. The cabin is roomy enough for four passengers and the front seats are very comfortable, but the back seat is rather tight.

Interior quality is good, but some materials are hard plastic, like those more typically found in VWs. Reminiscent of the Audi TT, the vents are now surrounded by large circular metal bezels that can be twisted to open and close them—a nice touch.