Audi A3 S-Line Review: Normal Yet Sporty Sedan

By Ajinkya

The Audi A3 S-Line is the German manufacturer's topmost variant within their entry-level product for the Indian market. The S-Line is a sporty version of the regular A3 sedan, which is available globally. Several premium and segment first features have been provided to the A3 S-Line trim.

audi a3 s line front three quarter

The very first A3 was introduced back in 1996 and currently dons a third generation avatar. The current A3 sedan is developed on Volkswagen's MQB platform, which is shared with several other manufacturers within the VW Group.

Styling

Up front, the superimposing Audi grille draws all the attention, which is followed by the striking reverse tick mark looking LED Daytime Running Lights. The hood does not get too many creases in an attempt to provide a muscular stance; instead, opts for a more aerodynamic feel.

audi a3 front profile

In terms of styling, Audi has equipped the A3 S-Line with sporty and aggressive looking bumpers. From the side profile, not much has changed, and the sedan resembles the regular A3. Sporty looking 17-inch alloy wheels have also been fitted for additional oomph.

Styling updates are mild over the regular A3 that is on offer currently. The S-Line badging is only visible on the front fender and the scuff plates. The rear looks simple and elegant like all Audi vehicles; dual exhaust ports are provided for a sporty touch.

Engine

Under the hood of the A3 S-Line is a 1.8-litre TFSI, petrol engine with direct-injection, and a turbocharger. The engine is tuned to churn out 178bhp and 250Nm of peak torque. Audi engineers have paired the engine to a 7-speed automatic gearbox.

audi a3 s line engine

Audi claims that the A3 S-Line delivers a fuel economy of 16.6 km/l, which is certified by ARAI. During our drive, we noticed a similar result in mixed driving conditions (highway/city). We experienced a fuel efficiency figures of 14 km/l in our driving experience of the A3.

Interior

The interior gets an all-black colour scheme with very little to no distractions. The MMI screen will grab most attention as it pops out of a slot when the vehicle starts and goes back in once the key is switched off. Air-conditioner vents look impressive and bear a resemblance to jet fighter turbines.

audi a3 s line interior

The glove box houses a CD player as well as a memory card reader. Audi has done an excellent job of keeping the huge system hidden. Part of their multimedia option also offers a 20GB hard drive to store music for an uninterrupted experience.

The instrument console is clear and gets red needles over the black background and letters that are in white. The centre provides various vehicle and multimedia information to the driver. The steering wheel also has several buttons on it to take care of multimedia as well as answering and disconnecting calls.

Rear seats are best for two individuals and a third person behind could get uncomfortable. The headroom also could be a bit low for taller occupants in the rear. All the seats in the Audi A3 S-Line model get premium black leather, which is also sporty.

Driveability

In the normal driving mode, the Audi A3 S-Line is rather easy to drive and unintimidating. The fun kicks in when you select the S mode and floor the pedal. Audi engineers have done an excellent job in making the drive as engaging as possible.

The A3 S-Line is planted and turns direction with relative ease, and the suspension is a bit on the firmer side. All these together provide an exhilarating ride experience in Audi's sporty sedan. The feedback from the steering wheel could provide more response in our opinion.

Safety Features

Audi offers the A3 S-Line with six airbags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), TCS (Traction Control System), BA (Brake Assist), and Hill Hold Control as part of the safety equipment.

audi a3 s line rear profile

Highs

  • Premium and sporty exterior design
  • Exclusivity
  • Drive and handling
  • Safety features

Lows

  • Similar Audi design
  • Stiff suspension
  • Premium price tag

Pricing

The A3 S-Line by Audi is priced at Rs. 31.40 lakh ex-showroom (Delhi).

audi a3 s line badge

Verdict

We really missed paddle shifters on the Audi A3 S-Line, which further implement the sporty avatar of the vehicle. The engine is smooth and extremely enjoyable. The A3 S-Line seems to provide decent fuel efficiency as well, thus, making it an everyday drivable vehicle.

The A3 S-Line has sufficient room for a family of four and can provide enough thrills for the weekend drive. Several buyers will prefer the S-Line A3 over the regular model, owing to the elusive S-Line badge. Audi India has also done an excellent job of equipping the A3 with several safety features.

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Read more on: #audi #review
Article Published On: Saturday, March 12, 2016, 17:50 [IST]
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