Last year saw Audi launch a range of updated packages for their model line-ups to invigorate some new life into the current vehicles. These included the Urban Package and Black Edition. These upgrades were not limited to just cosmetic but saw some upgrade to the tech and other aspects of the cars as well. Not too long ago I got to spend time with the A3 Sedan 35 TFSI which was in the Black Edition trim line. These packages allow the consumer to go into a dealership, select the model and engine variant they want, and without having to go through the numerous options, just select Urban or Black, and these come pre-loaded with a variety of options that are not only practical but pretty cool as well. The most you have to do is choose a colour from their spectrum, the rest, Audi will do depending on your choice.
DESIGN
The overall design of the A3 remains the same with some minor tweaks to the grille, headlights, tail lights and bumpers. The grille has more pronounced styling with a V pattern angling in towards the badge in the center. The Badges in the Black Edition are blacked out, the diffuser looks more aggressive with and angular side pod that is solid but with a grate like effect. The profile of the car remains sleek, with the new choice of rims really giving the car a bolder look. The main eye catching feature of the rear is the flashy LED Matrix lights which look like a collective of triangles and along with the day-time running lights the front perform a "dance" when unlocking and locking the car. So I mention that the "Black Edition" has a host of pre-selected options for you, but what does it entail? Lets take a dive into it.
- S line exterior and interior
- Black styling package with black rings
- Contour ambient lights
- leather/leatherette
- Sports Steering Wheel
- Sports package
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Black mirrors
PERFORMANCE
Unfortunately, the Black Edition doesn't give you any engine or performance enhancements, yes, those blacked out rings don't add to the kilowatts but still, the 35 TFSI motor has a pretty potent punch with 110kW and 250Nm of torque, the tiptronic gearbox is a masterful tactician in delivery the appropriate power on demand for the car. Flicking through the various driving modes would give you a true taste of this, as its quicker change when driving in efficiency while holding the gears for longer on dynamic. Audi claim a combined fuel economy of 5.8L per 100km with this one, I was averaging around 6.5L which isn't too bad. The ride quality on the car was quite good, considering its riding on 18-inch rims with low profiles, the suspension was quite soft and not overtly stiff.
COMFORT
The interior of the A3 has remained the same for most of it but there are some added details given to enhance the look. The doors receive a new diamond like pattern which integrates the ambient lighting to it. It's a small but very nice addition and looks very cool at night. Other than that, most of the interior is the same with dual climate control for the driver and front passenger, a wireless charging tray, two USB C ports in the front and back. The touch screen interface is easy to use and features Audi's latest MMI UI, The seats are sports style seats but are super comfy and have heating functionality as part of the Black Edition package. The infotainment has the usual settings and mobile apps built in with wireless connectivity. What I did appreciate though is the upgrade in the sound package with Audi now having a SONOS sound system option. This was brilliant in the car and honestly a great move from Audi to engage them for the media sound system.
VERDICT
The Audi A3 remains my favourite car in this segment, the BMW 2 Series GC and Mercedes Benz A-Class don't hold a flame to this one in my opinion. It just feels like a more complete car and has amazing offerings compared to its rivals. The pricing is a bit high with this particular model being just shy of R900,000, but with what you getting in the car with the Black Edition package, it's most certainly worth it.
SPECIFICATION
| Engine | 1.4L Turbo |
Gear Box | Tiptronic |
Torque | 250Nm |
Power | 110kW |
Fuel Economy | 5.8L per 100km |
Price | R849,500 |
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