New-gen Audi A3 and S3 hatchback spied in production guise

-    The new-gen Audi A3 and its souped-up variant, the S3 are nearing their reveal. 

-    Will adopt new styling and powertrain options shared with other Four Ring models. 

Audi’s line-up revamping continues with the new-generation A3 hatchback spotted in the production-ready body. The third-generation of the A3 – and its performance derivative, the S3 – are expected to break cover later this year, either as 2020 or 2021 model. The India-bound sedan version, however, will follow later. 

The A3 will adopt its styling from the new-gen A1 revealed last year. The headlamps design along with the cascading grille will be akin to the smaller sibling which already carries forward the design philosophy set down by the Q8 and the e-tron. So we can see the three squared-off LED day-time-running lights integrated into the headlights. The same goes for the S3, which appears to have an aggressive lower bumper and a slightly sharper nose. 

At the rear, the tail lamps are sleeker yet bigger than the older model. The flared wheel arches and raked C-pillar make the A3 and the S3 look more handsome than the outgoing model. Furthermore, the increased dimensions – owing to the updated MQB platform – also helps with the sporty appeal of the hatchback. 

On the inside, both the models seem to carry forward the layout from the older model. However, the Virtual Cockpit from the more expensive models is expected to be offered with the A3 as well, albeit in the top-spec models only. The floating MMI display might also be replaced with an integrated unit. Meanwhile, the increase in dimension should also translate to more space inside the cabin. 

Under the hood, the standard A3 will get the same set of powertrain options as the model it replaces. But we also expect newer and cleaner engines from other models to be offered with the A3. Even the S3 will carry forward the 292bhp 2.0-litre turbo-four but we expect a bump in power output. And a mild-hybrid powertrain isn’t ruled out either. 

We expect the new-generation A3 to break cover at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September before going on sale in the international markets. The sedan version will follow and it will make its way to India as well, as a part of Audi’s model offensive.