Audi A3 sedan review, road test

As for the technicals, the Audi A3 is built on the VW Group’s flexible MQB platform, positions its engines transversely and, for India, will be sold in front-wheel-drive form only. In addition to electronic differential lock that helps traction, traction control, electronic stability control, ABS and front and side airbags are part of the A3’s safety suite.

Unlike bigger, aluminium-intensive Audis, the A3’s body is predominantly made of steel with the bonnet being the only aluminium bit. For the record, the A3 diesel weighs in at 1,340kg while the petrol car weighs 1,295kg. The weight is distributed 60:40 (front:rear) and is supported by MacPherson struts up front and a four-link setup at the rear, but Audi has stiffened the front suspension on the diesel on account of the heavier engine. In fact, on the whole, all Indian A3s are set up a little stiffer than the standard European model to deliver what Audi says is the
optimal ride in our conditions.