Base 1.8 TFSI

Performance

1.8L TFSI Engine

The 2021 Audi A3 1.8 TFSI is powered by a 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that produces 170 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque. This engine offers a balance of performance and efficiency, achieving impressive fuel economy ratings, making it suitable for both urban driving and highway cruising. Compared to competitors, the TFSI engine provides a smooth power delivery and responsive acceleration, ensuring a dynamic driving experience.

7-Speed S tronic Transmission

This trim level features a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission that allows for quick and seamless gear shifts. The transmission enhances driving performance by optimizing engine output and fuel efficiency. It provides a sporty driving feel while also having an option for manual shifting, giving drivers more control in various driving conditions. This transmission sets the A3 apart from many competitors that may only offer traditional automatic options.

Audi Drive Select

Audi Drive Select allows drivers to customize their driving experience by choosing from various driving modes, including Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Individual. Each mode adjusts throttle response, steering sensitivity, and transmission behavior, enhancing performance tailored to the driver's preferences. This feature sets the A3 apart from competitors by offering a more personalized driving experience compared to standard fixed settings found in many rivals.

Adaptive Suspension (Optional)

The optional adaptive suspension system allows drivers to customize their driving experience by adjusting the suspension settings to suit various driving conditions. This feature improves ride comfort and handling, making it a great option for those who enjoy a more dynamic driving experience. In comparison to standard suspension setups in other trims, the adaptive system offers enhanced versatility.

Exterior

LED Headlights

Standard LED headlights on the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI provide superior visibility and a modern aesthetic. These headlights consume less energy while producing brighter and more focused lighting compared to traditional halogen headlights. The distinctive design adds to the vehicle's sporty appearance, enhancing both safety and style, especially in low-light conditions.

17-inch Alloy Wheels

Standard 17-inch alloy wheels enhance the sporty appearance of the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI while providing a lightweight construction that improves handling and efficiency. The design is both stylish and aerodynamic, contributing to the overall performance of the vehicle. Many competitors in this segment offer smaller, less sophisticated wheels, making the A3's standard offerings more appealing.

Power Folding Side Mirrors

The power folding side mirrors in the A3 1.8 TFSI Base trim provide added convenience when parked in tight spaces. These mirrors can be folded in with the touch of a button, reducing the risk of damage from passing vehicles. This feature is particularly useful in urban environments and is often found in higher trims of competing brands, making it a notable standard feature in the A3.

Front LED Daytime Running Lights

The front LED daytime running lights provide improved visibility and a distinctive appearance. These lights enhance the vehicle’s safety by making it more noticeable to other drivers during the day. Unlike traditional halogen lights, LEDs are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan, making them a superior choice in the compact sedan segment.

Chrome Window Surrounds

The chrome window surrounds add a touch of elegance to the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI Base trim's exterior design. This stylish detail enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the vehicle, setting it apart from competitors that may use plastic or less refined materials. The use of chrome accentuates the premium feel of the Audi brand.

Front Fog Lights

Front fog lights improve visibility during adverse weather conditions such as fog, rain, or snow by emitting a low, wide beam of light. This feature enhances safety by allowing the driver to see the road more clearly and be seen by other motorists. Compared to other trims, the A3's fog lights offer a stylish design that complements its sporty exterior, while many competitors may only offer them as an optional feature.

LED Tail Lights

The LED tail lights provide enhanced visibility and a modern aesthetic to the rear of the Audi A3. They illuminate quicker than traditional bulbs, improving the reaction time for drivers behind when the brakes are applied. This feature not only adds to the stylish look of the vehicle but also enhances safety by ensuring that the vehicle is clearly visible in low-light conditions. Compared to competitors, the A3's LED tail lights offer a unique design that complements its upscale appearance.

Adaptive Headlights

The A3 1.8 TFSI features adaptive headlights that adjust the direction of the light beam based on the steering angle and vehicle speed. This enhances visibility during nighttime driving and in curves, improving safety. While some competitors offer fixed headlights, Audi’s adaptive system provides a significant advantage in illumination.

Front and Rear LED Turn Signal Indicators

The A3 1.8 TFSI is equipped with LED turn signal indicators at both the front and rear, offering improved visibility to other drivers. LED technology is brighter and more energy-efficient compared to traditional bulbs, ensuring that signals are noticeable in various lighting conditions, enhancing overall safety.

Dynamic Rear Turn Signals

Dynamic rear turn signals provide a modern touch to the Audi A3's exterior design. These signals illuminate sequentially, enhancing visibility to other drivers when making turns or lane changes. This feature not only improves safety but also adds a stylish element that aligns with Audi's design philosophy, setting it apart from traditional static turn signals found on many competitors.

Rear Spoiler

The rear spoiler on the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI enhances aerodynamic efficiency, reducing drag and improving stability at higher speeds. This feature not only contributes to the vehicle's sporty appearance but also aids in fuel efficiency compared to models without a spoiler. Its design is seamlessly integrated into the sedan's styling, providing a subtle yet impactful upgrade that enhances both aesthetics and performance.

Heated Side Mirrors

Heated side mirrors help to clear frost, ice, and condensation, improving visibility in adverse weather conditions. This feature is particularly valuable in colder climates, ensuring that the driver can maintain clear sightlines without needing to manually scrape the mirrors. Compared to non-heated mirrors, this feature enhances convenience and safety during winter months.

Enhanced Exterior Lighting Package

This package includes additional exterior lighting features such as cornering lights that illuminate the path during turns, improving visibility in low-light conditions. It enhances safety by providing better illumination of the road ahead, making it easier to see pedestrians or obstacles. This lighting package is an upgrade over standard lighting options available in other trims.

Safety

Audi Pre Sense Basic

Audi Pre Sense Basic is a standard safety feature that prepares the vehicle in the event of an imminent collision. It activates the seatbelt tensioners, closes the windows, and adjusts the sunroof, if equipped, to minimize injury. This proactive feature enhances occupant protection and is a step beyond basic safety measures found in many compact sedans, demonstrating Audi's commitment to safety.

Rearview Camera

A rearview camera comes standard on the A3 1.8 TFSI, providing drivers with a clear view of the area behind the vehicle when reversing. This feature enhances safety and aids in parking, reducing the risk of accidents during maneuvers. While this feature is common in modern vehicles, the clarity and responsiveness of Audi's camera system stand out in its class.

Standard Adaptive Cruise Control

The base trim of the A3 1.8 TFSI includes standard adaptive cruise control, enhancing convenience during highway driving. This feature automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead, reducing the need for constant speed adjustments by the driver. While many competitors offer this feature only in higher trims, the A3 prioritizes driver assistance and comfort right from the base level, setting it apart in the compact sedan segment.

Front and Rear Parking Sensors

The A3 1.8 TFSI Base trim includes front and rear parking sensors that assist the driver during low-speed maneuvers by detecting obstacles around the vehicle. These sensors emit audible warnings, helping to prevent collisions when parking. This feature enhances overall safety and is an essential tool for city driving, providing an advantage over trims and models that lack such technology.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) continuously monitors the tire pressure of all four tires and alerts the driver when any tire is significantly under-inflated. This feature enhances safety by helping to prevent tire blowouts and promoting better fuel efficiency. Many vehicles in this class offer TPMS, but the A3's system is designed to provide real-time updates, ensuring that drivers are always informed of their tire conditions.

HD Rearview Camera

The A3 1.8 TFSI features a high-definition rearview camera that provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle when reversing. This enhances safety by helping the driver avoid obstacles and pedestrians. The HD resolution offers better image clarity compared to standard cameras found in competitors, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

Active Lane Assist

Active Lane Assist is a safety feature that helps the driver stay in their lane by providing gentle steering assistance when necessary. This system utilizes cameras to detect lane markings and can intervene if the vehicle begins to drift unintentionally. This feature stands out in its class, as it enhances driving confidence on highways and busy roads, making long-distance travel more comfortable.

Tire Repair Kit

The tire repair kit provides a convenient solution for minor tire punctures, allowing drivers to quickly address tire issues without the need for a full-sized spare. This compact kit includes all necessary tools and sealant, promoting peace of mind during travels. In comparison to vehicles that include a traditional spare tire, the kit saves weight and space in the trunk.

Blind Spot Monitoring System

The Blind Spot Monitoring System uses sensors to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes that may not be visible to the driver. This feature enhances safety by providing visual or audible alerts when a vehicle is detected in the blind spot, helping to prevent potential collisions during lane changes. Compared to similar systems in competitors, Audi's implementation is known for its accuracy and responsiveness.

Front Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking

This advanced safety feature alerts the driver of an imminent front collision and can automatically apply the brakes if the driver fails to respond in time. It uses radar and camera technology to detect vehicles ahead, providing an extra layer of safety that is particularly beneficial in urban driving situations. This system is often standard in luxury vehicles but is especially refined in the Audi A3.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert

This safety feature assists the driver when reversing from parking spaces by detecting oncoming traffic from the sides. The system alerts the driver through visual and auditory cues if a vehicle is approaching from either side, significantly reducing the risk of collisions. This feature is especially beneficial in crowded parking lots, providing an additional layer of safety that may not be standard in all competitors' base trims.

Traffic Jam Assist

Traffic Jam Assist is an advanced driver assistance feature that helps maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead in slow-moving traffic. It can control acceleration, braking, and steering within certain speed limits, easing the strain of stop-and-go driving. This feature is particularly useful for urban commutes, setting the A3 apart from other sedans that may not offer such advanced assistance in their base models.

Active Brake Assist

Active Brake Assist is an advanced safety feature designed to detect potential collisions with vehicles ahead. When a potential collision is detected, the system provides visual and audible warnings to the driver. If the driver does not respond in time, the system can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or prevent an accident. This feature enhances safety by providing an extra layer of protection that is increasingly becoming a standard in modern vehicles.

Technology

Standard 8.8-inch MMI Touchscreen

The A3 1.8 TFSI comes equipped with an 8.8-inch MMI touchscreen infotainment system, which allows for intuitive control of navigation, media, and vehicle settings. The system features a user-friendly interface with high-resolution graphics and supports smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This screen size is competitive within its class, providing ease of use and accessibility for drivers.

Virtual Cockpit (Optional)

The optional Audi Virtual Cockpit replaces traditional analog gauges with a customizable 12.3-inch digital display. This feature offers a variety of layouts, including navigation maps and performance metrics, directly in the driver's line of sight. It enhances the driving experience by providing essential information in a clear format, distinguishing the A3 from many rivals that do not offer such advanced instrument clusters.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Standard Bluetooth connectivity enables hands-free calling and audio streaming from compatible devices, ensuring drivers can stay connected while on the road. This feature adds convenience and safety, allowing users to access their phone's features without distraction. It is a standard offering in the A3, while some competitors may charge extra for similar capabilities.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatibility

The Audi A3 1.8 TFSI comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of your smartphone with the vehicle's infotainment system. This feature enables drivers to access navigation, music, and messaging apps directly from the MMI touchscreen, providing a safer and more convenient way to stay connected while on the road. Compared to competitors that may offer these features only as optional, the A3 ensures that connectivity is a standard part of your driving experience.

USB-C Charging Ports

The A3 1.8 TFSI Base trim is equipped with USB-C charging ports, providing faster and more efficient charging for modern devices. This feature supports the latest technology standards and allows passengers to charge their smartphones and tablets conveniently. Compared to older USB types, USB-C offers reversible connectors and improved data transfer rates, making it a valuable feature for tech-savvy users.

Voice Control System

The voice control system in the A3 1.8 TFSI allows drivers to control various vehicle functions and access navigation, media, and phone features using voice commands. This hands-free technology promotes safer driving by minimizing distractions. Compared to similar systems in other trims, Audi's voice recognition is known for its accuracy and responsiveness.

Standard Navigation System

The standard navigation system in the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI provides detailed maps, real-time traffic updates, and route guidance. This feature enhances the driving experience by ensuring drivers can easily find their way to destinations without needing to rely on their smartphones. Compared to competitors in the compact sedan segment, Audi's navigation system is known for its intuitive interface and seamless integration with the MMI Touchscreen.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

This feature offers the convenience of wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of smartphones with the vehicle's infotainment system. Drivers can access their apps, music, and navigation without the hassle of cables. This advancement places the A3 1.8 TFSI ahead of many of its competitors, which may still require a wired connection.

Integrated Navigation with Real-Time Traffic

The integrated navigation system in the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI includes real-time traffic updates, allowing drivers to avoid congested routes and reach their destinations more efficiently. This feature is particularly beneficial in urban environments where traffic conditions can change rapidly. Compared to standard navigation systems found in other trims, this enhanced capability ensures a smoother driving experience.

Wireless Phone Projection

This feature allows for seamless integration of smartphones with the vehicle's infotainment system. By utilizing wireless connections, drivers can access navigation, music, and apps without the need for physical cables. This enhances convenience, particularly for those who frequently use their devices for navigation. Compared to competitors that may still rely on wired connections, this feature offers a modern touch to the driving experience.

Interior

Leatherette Upholstery

The base trim level of the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI features high-quality leatherette upholstery, providing a premium look and feel at an affordable price. This material is not only easy to maintain but also adds a touch of luxury to the cabin environment. Compared to cloth upholstery found in some competitors, leatherette provides a more sophisticated appearance and increased durability.

Power Adjustable Front Seats

Standard power-adjustable front seats in the A3 1.8 TFSI allow drivers and passengers to find their ideal seating position with ease. The eight-way adjustability, including lumbar support, enhances comfort during long drives. This feature is essential for personalizing the driving experience, particularly when compared to manual adjustments found in some entry-level competitors. The A3's focus on comfort is evident with these well-designed seats.

Ambient Interior Lighting

The ambient interior lighting feature in the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI Base trim creates a sophisticated atmosphere within the cabin. It allows drivers to customize the lighting in various colors and intensities, enhancing the overall aesthetic and comfort of the vehicle's interior. This feature contributes to a luxurious feel, setting it apart from competitors that may offer less customizable options.

Front Sport Seats

The front sport seats in the Audi A3 are designed to provide enhanced support and comfort for spirited driving. They feature aggressive bolstering to hold occupants in place during dynamic maneuvers, contributing to a sportier driving experience. This feature differentiates the A3 from many competitors that offer more traditional seating, making the A3 a more engaging option for driving enthusiasts.

Ambient Lighting with Customizable Colors

The ambient lighting system in the A3 1.8 TFSI allows users to customize the color scheme of the interior lighting, creating a personalized atmosphere within the cabin. This feature enhances the driving experience, especially during nighttime driving, and is a luxury touch that many competitors do not offer standard.

Aluminum Interior Inlays

The aluminum interior inlays in the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI add a touch of modern sophistication and style to the cabin. This feature not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the overall premium feel of the interior. Unlike some competitors that use plastic trims, the aluminum inlays provide a more upscale look and tactile experience.

LED Interior Lighting Package

The LED interior lighting package enhances the ambiance of the A3 1.8 TFSI's cabin with customizable lighting options. It allows users to choose from different colors, setting a mood that suits their preferences. This feature is particularly appreciated at night, as it provides a luxurious feel, differentiating the A3 from other sedans in its class that may offer basic lighting.

Aluminum Door Sills

The aluminum door sills add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the interior of the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI. They provide enhanced durability and protection against scuffs and scratches when entering and exiting the vehicle. Compared to plastic alternatives found in many competitors, aluminum offers a premium feel and a distinctive look, reinforcing the luxury character of the Audi brand.

LED Interior Ambient Lighting

The LED interior ambient lighting creates a customizable atmosphere within the cabin of the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI. With various color options, passengers can alter the mood to suit their preferences. This feature not only enhances the visual appeal of the interior but also contributes to a more luxurious driving experience, distinguishing it from models lacking such ambiance.

Full LED Interior Lighting

This feature provides enhanced illumination throughout the cabin using energy-efficient LED technology. The full LED interior lighting not only improves visibility but also enhances the overall aesthetic of the vehicle's interior, giving it a modern and upscale feel. It is a step up from standard halogen lighting found in some competitors.

Comfort

Dual-Zone Climate Control

The 2021 A3 1.8 TFSI is equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control, allowing both the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperature settings. This feature enhances passenger comfort, ensuring an enjoyable ride regardless of external weather conditions. Compared to single-zone systems in other compact sedans, this option provides a higher level of personalization for occupants.

Acoustic Windshield

The A3 1.8 TFSI is equipped with an acoustic windshield, designed to reduce outside noise and enhance the cabin's tranquility. This feature improves overall driving comfort, especially during highway travel, making it easier to converse or enjoy the audio system without distraction. Many competitors may not offer this level of sound insulation in their base trims, giving the A3 a distinct advantage in terms of ride quality.

Heated Front Seats

The Audi A3 1.8 TFSI Base trim features heated front seats, providing enhanced comfort during colder weather. This feature allows drivers and passengers to warm their seats with adjustable temperature settings. Compared to competitors that may offer heated seats only on higher trims, this standard feature adds a layer of luxury and convenience to the entry-level model.

Automatic Climate Control

The Audi A3 1.8 TFSI Base trim includes automatic climate control, allowing the vehicle to maintain a preset temperature for optimal comfort. This system automatically adjusts the heating and cooling based on the desired settings, ensuring a pleasant environment regardless of outside conditions. Compared to manual systems, this feature enhances convenience for both the driver and passengers.

Rear Air Vents

Rear air vents in the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI Base trim provide additional airflow to rear-seat passengers. This feature ensures that all occupants can enjoy a comfortable climate during drives, especially on longer journeys. Many compact sedans in this class may lack rear air vents, making this a notable advantage for passenger comfort.

Convenience

Keyless Entry and Ignition

The A3 1.8 TFSI includes keyless entry and ignition as standard, allowing for easy access to the vehicle without fumbling for keys. This feature enhances convenience, especially when hands are full, and adds a modern touch to the driving experience. Many rivals offer this feature only in higher trims, making it a standout benefit of the base model A3.

Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers

The Audi A3 1.8 TFSI Base trim is equipped with rain-sensing windshield wipers that automatically detect moisture on the windshield and adjust their speed accordingly. This feature enhances driving convenience by ensuring optimal visibility during inclement weather without the need for manual adjustments, making it more user-friendly compared to some competitors that require manual wiper controls.

Automatic Headlight Activation

This feature automatically turns the headlights on or off based on ambient light conditions, ensuring enhanced safety and convenience. The system responds to changing light conditions, such as entering a tunnel or driving at dusk, allowing drivers to focus on the road without having to manually adjust their headlights, which is a valuable addition not always standard in other compact sedans.

12V Power Outlet in Center Console

The 12V power outlet located in the center console provides convenient access to power for charging devices on the go. This feature is particularly useful for powering small electronics such as GPS devices or charging mobile phones, ensuring that passengers can keep their devices charged while traveling. Many competitors offer similar outlets, but the A3's integration into the sleek interior design enhances usability without sacrificing aesthetics.

Power Trunk Release

The power trunk release feature allows for easy opening of the trunk with the push of a button, either from the key fob or inside the vehicle. This feature enhances convenience, especially when hands are full or in situations where quick access to the trunk is needed. While some competitors may require a manual release, the A3 offers this handy feature as a standard convenience, making it easier to load and unload cargo.

Wireless Phone Charging

The A3 1.8 TFSI includes a wireless phone charging pad, allowing compatible smartphones to charge without the need for cables. This feature enhances convenience by keeping the cabin clutter-free and ensuring the device remains charged during trips. Many competitors still rely on traditional charging ports, making this a standout feature.

Electromechanical Parking Brake

The electromechanical parking brake provides an easy-to-use electronic parking brake mechanism, replacing the traditional handbrake. Activated with a button, it offers greater convenience and frees up space in the center console. This modern system is more reliable and efficient compared to manual systems in older models and competitors.

Auto-dimming Interior Mirror

The auto-dimming interior mirror automatically adjusts its tint to reduce glare from headlights behind the vehicle, enhancing nighttime driving comfort. This feature is particularly useful for long drives or in urban settings. Compared to manual mirrors, this system provides a seamless and safer driving experience.

Keyless Access with Hands-free Trunk Release

This feature allows for keyless entry into the vehicle and includes a hands-free trunk release function, enabling users to open the trunk simply by waving their foot under the rear bumper. This is especially beneficial when hands are full. Many competitors still require manual unlocking, making this feature a notable convenience.

Multi-Function Steering Wheel

The multi-function steering wheel allows drivers to control various vehicle functions without taking their hands off the wheel. This includes audio settings, phone calls, and cruise control adjustments. This feature enhances safety by minimizing distractions and is particularly useful in busy traffic conditions, making it a standard offering in the A3 1.8 TFSI that sets it apart from base models of competitors.

Gesture Control for Trunk Release

The gesture control feature for trunk release allows users to open the trunk by simply gesturing their foot under the rear bumper, a particularly useful feature when hands are full. This innovative technology emphasizes convenience and accessibility, making it a standout feature compared to traditional trunk release methods.

Extended Warranty Coverage

The A3 1.8 TFSI comes with an extended warranty coverage plan that offers peace of mind for new car buyers. This coverage extends beyond the standard warranty, providing additional protection against unexpected repair costs. This feature is a significant advantage for buyers who prioritize long-term reliability and service, especially compared to competitors that may offer more limited warranty options.

Entertainment

Four-Speaker Sound System

The A3 1.8 TFSI is fitted with a four-speaker sound system that delivers clear audio quality for everyday listening. While it may not match the premium sound systems available in higher trims, it provides a solid audio experience for those who enjoy music or podcasts on the road. Compared to basic speaker systems in some rivals, the A3's sound system ensures that occupants can enjoy their favorite tunes without compromise.

8-Speaker Sound System

The standard 8-speaker sound system in the Audi A3 1.8 TFSI Base trim delivers a rich and immersive audio experience. This feature enhances the in-car entertainment by providing clear and balanced sound across a variety of music genres. Compared to the four-speaker system found in some competitors, this upgraded system promises a more enjoyable listening experience for passengers.

SiriusXM Satellite Radio

SiriusXM Satellite Radio provides access to a wide range of music, sports, news, and talk radio channels, offering entertainment options beyond standard AM/FM radio. This feature enhances the driving experience by allowing occupants to enjoy their favorite shows and music without interruptions. While many competitors offer similar services, the A3's integration into the infotainment system makes it easy to navigate and select channels.