The 2017 Audi A3 Sedan represents a pivotal moment for the brand, marking the first time the iconic hatchback lineage was translated into a conventional four-door sedan. This move signaled Audi's commitment to capturing a broader audience seeking the driving dynamics and premium feel of the A3 in a more practical and accessible body style. With its refined interior, engaging handling, and upscale technology, the sedan variant quickly established itself as a compelling choice in the competitive luxury compact segment.
Design and Exterior Refinements
Visually, the 2017 A3 Sedan carries the aggressive and sophisticated cues of its hatchback sibling, but with a more stately presence. The front fascia features the signature single-frame grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights that give the car a distinctive and premium identity. The design language is cohesive, with subtle wheel arches, a sleek roofline, and LED taillights at the rear that create a sense of width and stability. Available options like the S line package introduce larger bumpers, a more pronounced rear diffuser, and 19-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty character without sacrificing elegance.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside, and the 2017 A3 Sedan’s cabin reveals one of its strongest selling points: a genuinely luxurious and well-crafted environment. The dashboard is driver-focused, featuring high-quality materials such as brushed aluminum, soft-touch plastics, and premium leather upholstery. The standout feature is the virtual cockpit, a fully customizable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that provides crystal-clear graphics for navigation, media, and vehicle settings. This technology, combined with a responsive MMI infotainment system and available Bang & Olufsen sound, creates an atmosphere of modern sophistication that feels far ahead of its class.
Seating and Practicality
While the A3 Sedan offers less rear headroom than some hatchbacks due to its sloping roofline, the front seats are exceptionally supportive and comfortable for long drives. The standard cloth upholstery is durable and attractive, while the optional leather provides an even more upscale touch. Rear seating is adequate for two passengers, offering decent legroom and a comfortable cushion for shorter trips. The sedan configuration also proves more practical for daily use, with a conventional trunk opening that provides easier access and slightly more usable space than the hatchback’s vertical liftgate.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
True to the A3 nameplate, the 2017 sedan delivers a driving experience that is precise, balanced, and engaging. The available turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 201 horsepower, providing brisk acceleration and confident passing power. This power is sent to the front wheels via a smooth seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which offers swift gear changes and efficient power delivery. The standard front-wheel-drive layout is complemented by Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which enhances traction and stability in various weather conditions, making the car confident and fun to drive year-round.
Safety and Available Features
Safety is a cornerstone of the A3 Sedan’s appeal, as it earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The sedan comes well-equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and Audi's proprietary safety package. Optional features expand this protection significantly, introducing adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These technologies work seamlessly to provide an extra layer of security and convenience, making the A3 Sedan a standout choice for tech-savvy and safety-conscious buyers.
