The Audi A3 Sportback and Limousine 2017 models represent a significant step forward in the compact luxury car segment. These cars offer a compelling blend of style, technology, and performance, making them attractive options for discerning drivers. This comprehensive guide dives deep into what makes the 2017 Audi A3 Sportback and Limousine stand out, covering everything from their design and features to their performance and overall driving experience. For anyone considering these models, understanding their nuances is key to making an informed decision. So, let’s explore the specifics and see why the Audi A3 2017 lineup remains a popular choice.

Exterior Design: A Closer Look

The exterior design of the 2017 Audi A3 Sportback and Limousine showcases Audi’s commitment to sleek, modern aesthetics. The Sportback, with its hatchback configuration, offers a sporty and practical appeal, while the Limousine presents a more traditional sedan profile, exuding elegance and sophistication. Both models feature sharp lines, a bold Singleframe grille, and distinctive LED headlights that create a striking visual signature. The attention to detail in the design is evident in every curve and contour, contributing to a premium and refined appearance.

Key Design Elements

• Singleframe Grille: The iconic Audi Singleframe grille is prominently displayed, giving the A3 a confident and recognizable face. Its design integrates seamlessly with the headlights, enhancing the car's overall aggressive stance.
• LED Headlights: The sharp and focused LED headlights not only provide excellent visibility but also add a touch of modernity to the car’s design. The daytime running lights (DRLs) further enhance its visual appeal.
• Body Lines: The well-defined body lines contribute to the car's dynamic appearance. These lines flow smoothly from the front to the rear, creating a sense of motion even when the car is stationary.
• Wheel Options: A variety of wheel options are available, allowing buyers to customize the look of their A3. From sporty alloys to more elegant designs, the wheels play a crucial role in defining the car's character.
• Sportback vs. Limousine: While both models share a similar front-end design, their rear profiles differ significantly. The Sportback's hatchback design offers greater versatility, while the Limousine's traditional sedan shape provides a more formal appearance.

The 2017 Audi A3 design successfully marries form and function. Its sophisticated exterior is not just about aesthetics; it also contributes to the car's aerodynamic efficiency, improving fuel economy and reducing wind noise. Whether you prefer the sporty hatchback or the elegant sedan, the A3’s design is sure to impress.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2017 Audi A3 Sportback and Limousine, you're greeted with a cabin that epitomizes Audi’s dedication to quality and innovation. The interior design is clean and modern, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The focus is on creating a comfortable and connected driving experience, with a range of advanced technology features at your fingertips. From premium leather upholstery to cutting-edge infotainment systems, the A3's interior is designed to delight.

Key Interior Features

• Premium Materials: The use of high-quality materials throughout the cabin, such as leather upholstery and aluminum trim, creates a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. The tactile feel of the materials adds to the overall sense of refinement.
• Infotainment System: The MMI infotainment system is a standout feature, offering intuitive controls and a range of connectivity options. The central display screen provides access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings, making it easy to stay connected on the go.
• Virtual Cockpit: Available as an option, the Audi Virtual Cockpit replaces the traditional instrument cluster with a fully digital display. This customizable display provides a wealth of information, including speed, navigation, and media, right in the driver's line of sight.
• Comfort and Space: Despite its compact size, the A3 offers a comfortable and spacious interior. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, making long drives a pleasure. The rear seats also provide ample legroom for passengers.
• Connectivity: The A3 comes equipped with a range of connectivity features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. These features allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system, providing access to your favorite apps and services.

The 2017 Audi A3 interior is a testament to Audi’s commitment to creating a premium driving environment. The combination of high-quality materials, advanced technology, and thoughtful design makes the A3 a standout in its class. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the A3’s interior provides a comfortable and connected experience.

Performance and Handling

The 2017 Audi A3 Sportback and Limousine offer a dynamic driving experience, thanks to their responsive engines and well-tuned suspensions. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the A3 delivers a smooth and engaging ride. The available engine options provide a range of performance levels, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your driving needs. The precise steering and confident handling make the A3 a joy to drive.

Engine Options

• 1.8-Liter TFSI: The standard engine is a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, producing 170 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for everyday driving.
• 2.0-Liter TFSI: For those seeking more power, the available 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides brisk acceleration and a more engaging driving experience.
• Quattro All-Wheel Drive: The 2.0-liter TFSI engine is available with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability in all weather conditions. This system distributes power between the front and rear wheels, optimizing grip and handling.

Driving Dynamics

• Steering: The A3's steering is precise and well-weighted, providing excellent feedback and control. The steering response is quick and direct, making the car feel agile and responsive.
• Suspension: The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling. It absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, while still providing a confident and controlled feel in corners.
• Transmission: The available transmissions include a six-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic, which provides quick and smooth gear changes. The transmission is well-matched to the engines, maximizing performance and fuel efficiency.
• Driving Modes: The Audi Drive Select system allows you to customize the car's driving characteristics to suit your preferences. You can choose from different modes, such as Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Individual, which adjust the throttle response, steering, and suspension settings.

The 2017 Audi A3 performance is a key highlight, offering a blend of power, agility, and refinement. Whether you're looking for a fuel-efficient daily driver or a sporty weekend car, the A3 has something to offer. The combination of responsive engines, precise handling, and advanced technology makes the A3 a standout in its class.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority in the 2017 Audi A3 Sportback and Limousine, with a range of advanced safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. From active safety systems that help prevent accidents to passive safety features that minimize the impact of a collision, the A3 is equipped to keep you safe on the road. Audi’s commitment to safety is evident in every aspect of the car’s design and engineering.

Key Safety Features

• Airbags: The A3 comes standard with a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags, providing protection for all occupants in the event of a collision.
• Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS): ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing you to maintain steering control and avoid skidding.
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC): ESC helps prevent skidding and loss of control by automatically applying the brakes to individual wheels when it detects a loss of traction.
• Traction Control System (TCS): TCS helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration, improving traction and stability, especially on slippery surfaces.
• Audi Pre Sense Basic: This system detects critical driving situations and prepares the car for a potential collision by tightening the seatbelts and closing the windows and sunroof.
• Audi Pre Sense Front: This system uses radar sensors to monitor the road ahead and provides visual and audible warnings if it detects a potential collision. It can also automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a collision.
• Blind Spot Monitoring: This system uses radar sensors to monitor the blind spots and alerts you if a vehicle is detected in your blind spot.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: This system uses radar sensors to detect vehicles approaching from the side when you're backing out of a parking space, helping you avoid collisions.
• Lane Keeping Assist: This system helps you stay in your lane by providing gentle steering inputs if it detects that you're drifting out of your lane.

The 2017 Audi A3 safety features provide peace of mind, knowing that you and your passengers are protected by a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies. Audi’s commitment to safety is evident in the A3’s design and engineering, making it a safe and reliable choice.

Fuel Efficiency and Economy

The 2017 Audi A3 Sportback and Limousine offer competitive fuel efficiency, making them a practical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel. The combination of efficient engines and lightweight construction helps the A3 achieve impressive fuel economy without sacrificing performance. Whether you're looking to save money at the pump or reduce your carbon footprint, the A3 delivers.

Fuel Economy Ratings

• 1.8-Liter TFSI: The 1.8-liter TFSI engine achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway.
• 2.0-Liter TFSI: The 2.0-liter TFSI engine achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway.
• Quattro All-Wheel Drive: The 2.0-liter TFSI engine with Quattro all-wheel drive achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway.

Factors Affecting Fuel Economy

• Driving Habits: Your driving habits can have a significant impact on fuel economy. Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and high speeds can all reduce fuel economy.
• Road Conditions: Road conditions, such as traffic congestion and hilly terrain, can also affect fuel economy.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, can help improve fuel economy.
• Tire Pressure: Maintaining proper tire pressure can also help improve fuel economy.

The 2017 Audi A3 fuel efficiency makes it an economical choice for drivers who want to save money on gas without sacrificing performance or luxury. The combination of efficient engines, lightweight construction, and advanced technology helps the A3 achieve impressive fuel economy ratings.

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Audi A3 Right for You?

The 2017 Audi A3 Sportback and Limousine are compelling options in the compact luxury car segment, offering a blend of style, technology, and performance. With its sleek design, premium interior, and engaging driving dynamics, the A3 stands out as a top contender. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, safety, or luxury, the A3 has something to offer.

Key Considerations

• Design: The A3's sleek and modern design is sure to turn heads. Whether you prefer the sporty hatchback or the elegant sedan, the A3 offers a stylish option.
• Interior: The A3's premium interior is comfortable and well-equipped, with a range of advanced technology features.
• Performance: The A3's responsive engines and well-tuned suspension provide a dynamic driving experience.
• Safety: The A3's comprehensive suite of safety features provides peace of mind.
• Fuel Efficiency: The A3's competitive fuel economy makes it a practical choice for daily commuting.

Ultimately, the decision of whether the 2017 Audi A3 is right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a stylish, luxurious, and fun-to-drive compact car, the A3 is definitely worth considering. Be sure to test drive both the Sportback and Limousine models to see which one best suits your lifestyle.