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Model
Reviews > A3
> Model Overview
Launched in the UK in October 1996, the A3 was
both the first compact Audi hatchback and also the first
Audi to use the familiar VW Golf chassis. Today, this familiar platform is used by a number of other Volkswagen
Group owned manufacturers for their models, but the Audi
has always been regarded as the flag ship model in terms
of style, luxury and price. Targeted directly at BMW
compact territory, the A3 was designed to compete in the
new 'Luxury Compact' class and was an instant success and
remains so to this day.
1996-1997
The
range in 1996 consisted of standard, 'Sport' and 'SE' 3
door models using a choice of three 4 cylinder petrol
engines or one 4 cylinder diesel. The 1.6 litre petrol
unit was fitted to the entry model with a respectable
101BHP output. The 1.8 litre unit was the next step up. 5
valve per cylinder engine technology first seen in the A4
18 months earlier gave the A3 1.8 a more useful 125BHP.
The diesel variant was powered by a very potent 110BHP
unit, first seen in the A4 a year earlier. A top of the
range petrol model only available as a sport and powered
by the 150BHP turbo charged version of the 1.8 litre
completed the range. All models were available with
either 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic transmission
but quattro four wheel drive was not an option at that
time. The entry models came very well equipped, offering
twin airbags, ABS, power steering, electric windows and
15" alloy wheels as standard. EDL traction control
was also standard on all models other than the 1.6. SE
specification offered improved levels of trim, Climate
controlled air conditioning, and remote central locking.
Sport models offered a sunroof instead of Climate
Control, sports seats. suspension and alloy wheels,
(16" on the T Sport"). Of course all models
could be ordered with a number of optional extras
depending on personal choice.
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1997-1999
August 1997 saw
the adoption of four air bags offering increased side
impact protection and improved Concert stereo system.
late 1998 saw cosmetic changes including improved
interior trim and revised door handles.
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1999-2000
The addition of a super quick 215BHP S3
quattro arrived in May 1999. This flag ship model
featured electric Recaro seats, Xenon headlamps and
17" Avus alloys as standard. The specification was
further enhanced in February 2000 with the addition of
ESP. A 180BHP 1.8 litre turbo charged quattro was also
launched in July 1999 as was an entry level 90BHP diesel,
previously only available in other European counties. The
most significant model change to date in August 1999 saw
the addition of a 5 door option available on all but the
S3.
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Sept 2000
- Date
The A3 received it's first face lift. Not
significant from the outside, but why spoil a winning
formula. Revised headlamps and restyled bumpers and
grille were the most significant external change. Greater
changes to the interior, including revised seating and
dash layout were a marked improvement. The latter,
providing space for Satellite Navigation plus or Symphony
stereo with CD player at extra cost. Also on the option
list for the first time was the Sideguard safety system.
ESP became a standard feature throughout the range.
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