Audi A3: prices and specifications

The Audi A3 became the first compact car of the German brand, replacing the outdated Audi 50 model. Later, the niche of compact hatchback successors was supplemented by the Audi A1. In the model name, 'A' indicates the Audi brand, and the number '3' indicates belonging to the European C-class.

First generation

Development began in 1994, when the management of the Volkswagen Group (which already included Audi) decided to fill a gap in the compact segment. Test prototypes were created on the A4 platform (PQ34), which later formed the basis for the Audi TT, Volkswagen Golf, and Seat Leon. The design was developed by specialist Peter Schreyer.

The world premiere of the production version took place in 1996 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Initially, the model was produced as a three-door hatchback, and in 1998 a five-door version called the Audi A3 Sportback appeared. In 1999, the 'hot' Audi S3 modification was introduced, available only in a three-door body. It featured more powerful engines, special exterior and interior design. The base version had front-wheel drive, with the Quattro all-wheel drive system available as an option. In 2000, all versions underwent a facelift.

Second generation

The premiere of the second generation in a three-door hatchback body took place in 2003 at the Geneva Motor Show. The design was developed by Walter de Silva, who proposed using a new vertical radiator grille on all models. The car was built on the A5 platform (PQ35), grew noticeably in size, and received new engines and transmissions. In 2004, a five-door version appeared, and a year later, a two-door convertible. In 2006, the second generation Audi S3 was released, and in 2011, the most powerful RS3 version appeared on the market, which, unlike the S3, was produced in a five-door body. The facelift of the second generation was carried out once, in 2008.

Third generation

The third and current generation of the Audi A3 was introduced in 2012 at the Geneva Motor Show. This generation is produced only in two body styles: three- and five-door hatchback. In addition to standard versions, the production of 'hot' S3 and RS3 versions has been established. The model is built on the new MQB platform.

Deliveries of the third generation to Ukraine began in the summer of 2012. The car is equipped with petrol turbo engines of 1.4 and 1.8 liters, as well as diesel engines of 1.6 and 2.0 liters. They are paired with a six-speed manual transmission or a six- or seven-speed automatic. Drive is front or all-wheel.