JHF
Driving Dynamics Pro
This is the first time we've seen this test prototype, and it proves all the rumors about an update coming in 2016 are true.
Considering the car just started winter testing, we find the Geneva debut suggested by some to be too optimistic. But you never know. Cosmetically, we do not see huge changes here, but there are a few that grab the eye.
For instance, everybody around the office agrees that Audi is trying to make the A3 look like the A4. The headlights have lost some of their character and now have a pure rectangular design, flanking a new grille with a more clearly defined hexagon shape.
Around the back, we literally can't see anything being changed, but that could be because this is an early test prototype and taillights don't have to adhere to such stringent requirements as their partners at the front.
New engines? What new engines?!
This A3 sedan prototype has only one exhaust pipe on the left side of the vehicle. Right now, there's only one model that fits the description, and that's the 1.6 TDI.
That can mean one of two things. Either Audi is re-engineering the 1.6 TDI, or it's working on a new entry-level model. All the other A3 models come with a 1.2-liter TFSI petrol engine, but the sedan doesn't. In addition, Volkswagen has been installing a new 1.0-liter turbo on pretty much every compact car based on the MQB platform, including the big Touran.
However, we'd say the chances of a 1.0 TFSI version of the Audi A3 sedan are slim, as premium car companies hate small engines.
Our sources tell us the A3 facelift will debut with a new type of 1.8-liter turbo engine that will produce 190 PS instead of the current 180 PS and will consume less fuel by adopting the Cylinder on Demand technology from its smaller 1.4 TFSI brother.
That could explain what the TT coupe is doing in the convoy, since the 1.8 is its entry-level engine. However, we don't have definitive proof of this yet.
The updated A3 sedan will probably be ready for its debut by next September, when everybody will gather for the next Frankfurt Motor Show. Updates may also include a fully digitized speedometer and Apple CarPlay.
2016 Audi A3 Sedan Facelift Spied for the First Time, Starts Winter Testing with TT
