Audi A3 2016: Full Specifications and Key Features

The 2016 Audi A3 is a premium compact car available as a sedan, cabriolet (convertible), and in some markets as a Sportback, offering a mix of efficient turbocharged engines, advanced safety and infotainment tech, and a high‑quality interior. Below is a detailed breakdown of its main specifications, with a focus on the 2016 U.S. lineup and notes on key international differences.

Overview of the 2016 Audi A3 Range

The 2016 Audi A3 sits in the entry‑level luxury segment, competing with models like the Mercedes‑Benz CLA and BMW 2 Series. Built on the Volkswagen Group MQB platform, it shares much of its hardware with the VW Golf but adds more refinement, technology and a premium finish. It was sold in several body styles and trims, each with distinct engine and drivetrain configurations.

Body Styles and Main Variants

The 2016 A3 lineup comprises several body styles and performance variants that define how the car drives and who it best suits.

• A3 Sedan: Four‑door compact luxury sedan, the core body style in North America.
• A3 Cabriolet: Two‑door soft‑top convertible with similar mechanicals to the sedan.
• A3 Sportback (Europe and select markets): Five‑door hatchback, including e‑tron plug‑in hybrid versions.
• S3 Sedan: High‑performance version of the A3 sedan with a more powerful engine and sport‑tuned chassis.
• A3 Sportback e‑tron (mainly Europe, some other markets): Plug‑in hybrid, combining a petrol engine and electric motor.

Across these variants, the A3 platform offers a combination of everyday practicality and upscale features, with performance scaling up significantly in the S3 and e‑tron models.

Dimensions and Exterior Specifications

While dimensions vary slightly by body style and market, the 2016 A3 remains a compact vehicle designed for urban usability without sacrificing comfort for four adults.

Main Exterior Dimensions (2016 A3 Sedan, approximate)

These dimensions apply broadly to the 2016 A3 sedan sold in the U.S. and are similar, with small differences, in other regions.

• Overall length: ~175.5 in (4,458 mm)
• Overall width (without mirrors): ~70.7 in (1,796 mm)
• Overall height: ~55.7 in (1,415 mm)
• Wheelbase: ~103.8 in (2,601 mm)
• Curb weight: roughly 3,100–3,300 lb (1,406–1,497 kg), depending on engine, equipment, and FWD vs. quattro
• Drag coefficient (Cd): around 0.30–0.31, depending on configuration

These proportions place the A3 among the more compact premium sedans, contributing to an agile driving experience and relatively easy parking in crowded city environments.

Wheels, Tires, and Exterior Equipment

The A3 offers a range of wheel sizes and exterior equipment packages aimed at balancing comfort, style, and performance.

• Standard wheel sizes (A3): typically 16–17 inches, alloy wheels
• Available wheel sizes: up to 18 inches on higher trims or with S line packages
• Tire types: all‑season tires standard in many markets; performance tires available with sport packages
• Lighting: halogen headlights standard in some trims, with available Xenon plus or LED headlights, LED daytime running lights
• Exterior details: signature Singleframe grille, available S line exterior package with sportier bumpers and side skirts

These choices allow buyers to tailor the A3’s look and driving character, from understated and comfort‑biased to more aggressively styled and performance‑oriented.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2016 Audi A3 is powered by a range of turbocharged petrol (gasoline) and diesel engines, plus a plug‑in hybrid in the e‑tron. Specifications vary by market; the details below focus on key U.S. engines, with notes on European options.

U.S. Gasoline Engine Options (A3 Sedan & Cabriolet)

In the United States, the 2016 A3 was primarily sold with two turbocharged four‑cylinder gasoline engines, both paired with Audi’s dual‑clutch automatic transmission.

• 1.8 TFSI (A3 1.8T FWD)
  

  • Displacement: 1.8‑liter inline‑4, turbocharged, direct injection
  • Output: ~170 hp @ ~4,500–6,200 rpm
  • Torque: ~200 lb‑ft @ ~1,600–4,400 rpm
  • Drivetrain: Front‑wheel drive (FWD) only
  • Transmission: 6‑speed S tronic dual‑clutch automatic
  • 0–60 mph (manufacturer estimates/independent tests): ~7.2–7.3 seconds

• 2.0 TFSI (A3 2.0T quattro)
  

  • Displacement: 2.0‑liter inline‑4, turbocharged, direct injection
  • Output: ~220 hp @ ~4,500–6,200 rpm
  • Torque: ~258 lb‑ft @ ~1,600–4,400 rpm
  • Drivetrain: quattro all‑wheel drive
  • Transmission: 6‑speed S tronic dual‑clutch automatic
  • 0–60 mph: typically around 5.8–6.0 seconds

These two engines define much of the A3’s character in North America, with the 1.8 TFSI emphasizing efficiency and the 2.0 TFSI providing notably stronger acceleration and standard all‑wheel drive.

U.S. Diesel and Performance Variants

The 2016 model year also includes a diesel variant (before diesel sales were withdrawn) and the high‑performance S3.

• 2.0 TDI (A3 TDI)
  

  • Displacement: 2.0‑liter inline‑4 turbodiesel
  • Output: ~150 hp
  • Torque: ~236 lb‑ft
  • Drivetrain: FWD (in U.S. A3 sedan)
  • Transmission: 6‑speed S tronic dual‑clutch
  • Known for high fuel economy; availability affected by Volkswagen Group diesel emissions issues.

• 2.0 TFSI (S3 Sedan)
  

  • Displacement: 2.0‑liter inline‑4, high‑output turbocharged
  • Output: ~292 hp
  • Torque: ~280 lb‑ft
  • Drivetrain: quattro all‑wheel drive
  • Transmission: 6‑speed S tronic dual‑clutch (sport‑tuned)
  • 0–60 mph: around 4.7–4.9 seconds (independent tests)
  • Chassis upgrades: sport suspension, larger brakes, performance tires

The diesel A3 TDI focused on long‑range efficiency, while the S3 turned the A3 into a compact performance sedan with acceleration rivaling some sports cars.

European Engine Lineup (Overview)

In Europe and other global markets, the 2016 A3 offered a wider selection of TFSI petrol and TDI diesel engines, catering to stricter emissions and tax regimes.

• Typical petrol options (TFSI): 1.2 TFSI, 1.4 TFSI (including cylinder‑on‑demand), 1.8 TFSI, 2.0 TFSI
• Typical diesel options (TDI): 1.6 TDI, 2.0 TDI in multiple power outputs (e.g., ~110–184 hp)
• Drive layouts: Front‑wheel drive standard; quattro all‑wheel drive on higher‑output engines and S3
• Transmissions: 6‑speed manual or 6/7‑speed S tronic dual‑clutch, depending on engine and market

This broader engine mix meant European buyers could prioritize low CO₂ emissions, strong torque, or outright performance based on local fuel prices and regulations.

A3 Sportback e‑tron (Plug‑in Hybrid, selected markets)

The A3 e‑tron plug‑in hybrid variant combined gasoline and electric power, offering lower emissions and potential for short all‑electric trips.

• Combustion engine: 1.4‑liter TFSI inline‑4
• Electric motor: integrated into the transmission housing
• System output: around 204 hp (combined)
• Battery: lithium‑ion pack (around 8.8 kWh, depending on region/version)
• Electric‑only range: roughly 20–30 miles (32–48 km) under ideal conditions, depending on test cycle
• Charging: plug‑in via home or public chargers; charge time varies with power source

The e‑tron specification positioned the A3 as an early premium plug‑in hybrid in the compact segment, combining everyday usability with significantly reduced fuel consumption for short commutes.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

Fuel‑efficiency figures vary by engine, drivetrain, and test standard (EPA in the U.S., NEDC/WLTP in Europe), but the 2016 A3 is generally known for relatively low fuel consumption for a premium car.

Approximate U.S. EPA Ratings (2016 A3)

The following estimates are typical EPA‑style figures; exact numbers can differ slightly by trim and wheel/tire choice.

• A3 1.8 TFSI FWD (sedan)
  

  • City: ~23–24 mpg
  • Highway: ~33–35 mpg
  • Combined: around 27–28 mpg

• A3 2.0 TFSI quattro (sedan)
  

  • City: ~24–25 mpg
  • Highway: ~33–34 mpg
  • Combined: around 27–28 mpg

• A3 TDI (diesel)
  

  • City: around low‑30s mpg
  • Highway: mid‑40s mpg
  • Combined: mid‑30s to high‑30s mpg

• S3 2.0 TFSI quattro
  

  • City: roughly 21–23 mpg
  • Highway: roughly 28–31 mpg
  • Combined: around mid‑20s mpg

These numbers illustrate that the A3 offers competitive fuel economy across its range, with the diesel and plug‑in hybrid variants achieving particularly low consumption where available.

Interior, Comfort, and Practicality

The 2016 A3 emphasizes a clean, minimalist interior design, with materials and fit‑and‑finish that stand out in the compact class. Despite its relatively small footprint, it offers sufficient space for four adults and usable trunk capacity.

Cabin Design and Space

Inside, the A3 follows Audi’s contemporary design language, featuring circular air vents, a slim dashboard, and an emphasis on tactile controls.

• Seating capacity: 5 (rear bench suitable for two adults and one child for shorter trips)
• Front seats: supportive, with available power adjustment, lumbar support and heating
• Rear seats: adequate legroom for adults in a compact segment; slightly tighter in cabriolet
• Materials: soft‑touch plastics, aluminum or trim inlays, optional leather and upgraded upholstery
• Trunk (sedan): roughly 10–12 cu ft (around 340 liters), depending on measurement standard
• Sportback (where sold): larger cargo area with hatchback versatility and split‑folding rear seats

The interior spec underscores Audi’s goal of bringing features and finish levels from larger models into a smaller, more affordable package.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The A3 was one of the first compact luxury models to offer advanced infotainment technology, including Audi’s MMI system and available high‑end audio.

• MMI infotainment system: dashboard‑mounted screen that folds out; rotary controller on center console
• Screen sizes: typically 5.8 inches standard, with larger screen in higher trims/optional packages
• Audio options: standard sound system, with optional Bang & Olufsen premium audio
• Connectivity: Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, USB/aux inputs (market/trims may differ)
• Navigation: optional integrated navigation with 3D maps and traffic information in many markets
• Smartphone integration: in this model year, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto were just emerging; availability depends on market and build; some cars rely mainly on Audi’s proprietary connectivity services.

Infotainment specs make the 2016 A3 feel modern even today, especially in higher trims with upgraded screens and audio systems.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Safety was a core part of the A3’s value proposition, with solid crash‑test results and an expanding suite of driver‑assistance systems for the time.

Passive and Active Safety Systems

The A3 blends traditional passive safety with increasingly sophisticated active systems designed to prevent or mitigate crashes.

• Airbags: front, front side, curtain airbags; some markets also offered knee airbags
• Electronic stability control (ESC): standard, including traction control
• ABS and brake assist: standard across the range
• Crumple zones and high‑strength steel structure: designed to meet or exceed major global safety standards
• ISOFIX/LATCH child‑seat anchors: fitted in rear seats

These core systems form the baseline of the A3’s safety specification, contributing to strong ratings from major testing agencies.

Available Driver‑Assistance Technologies

Depending on trim and options, the 2016 A3 could be equipped with several assistance features that were advanced for a compact car at the time.

• Adaptive cruise control: maintains set speed and distance to the car ahead (availability varies by market)
• Audi pre sense front: forward‑collision warning with brake‑assist or automatic emergency braking in some specs
• Lane departure warning: alerts driver if the car drifts from its lane
• Blind‑spot monitoring (Audi side assist): warns of vehicles in adjacent lanes
• Rearview camera and parking sensors: assist with low‑speed maneuvering, often part of technology or convenience packages

While not as comprehensive as the latest systems, these technologies significantly enhance the 2016 A3’s safety and ease of use, especially in urban traffic.

Chassis, Suspension, and Driving Dynamics

The 2016 A3’s chassis was engineered to offer a balance of comfort and agility, with more athletic behavior in the S3 and models equipped with sport packages.

Suspension and Steering Setup

The A3’s fundamental mechanical layout is shared across the range, but tuning and hardware change with engine and trim.

• Front suspension: MacPherson struts with lower wishbones and anti‑roll bar
• Rear suspension: multi‑link setup on most higher‑powered versions; some lower‑output FWD variants in certain markets may use a torsion‑beam style rear axle
• Steering: electromechanical power steering with variable assistance
• Brakes: four‑wheel disc brakes with ventilated front discs; larger and more performance‑focused on S3
• Drive select (optional): Audi drive select system adjusting throttle response, steering weighting, and, where fitted, adaptive dampers

This setup provides the predictable, composed handling expected of a premium compact, with the S3 and sport‑suspension versions delivering sharper responses and flatter cornering.

Trim Levels and Equipment Highlights

Exact trim names and equipment bundles vary by country, but the 2016 A3 typically offered tiered models with increasing luxury and technology content.

Typical Trim Structure (U.S. Example)

The U.S. 2016 A3 sedan commonly came in a progression where each trim level built on the previous one with more features.

• Premium:
  

  • Leather upholstery, dual‑zone automatic climate control
  • Xenon or halogen headlights (depending on configuration)
  • Panoramic sunroof (sedan), basic MMI audio

• Premium Plus:
  

  • Heated front seats, keyless entry and start
  • Upgraded wheels, some additional driver‑assistance options
  • Additional comfort and convenience features

• Prestige:
  

  • Navigation, Bang & Olufsen audio (in many builds)
  • Advanced driver‑assistance features more widely available or standard
  • Additional luxury touches and tech upgrades

This tiered approach lets buyers select an A3 that matches their priority, whether that is value, technology, or near‑flagship equipment levels in a compact shell.

Summary

The 2016 Audi A3 is a compact premium car offered as a sedan, cabriolet and, in some markets, Sportback and plug‑in hybrid e‑tron. Core specifications include turbocharged 1.8‑ and 2.0‑liter TFSI engines (plus diesel and S3 performance variants), front‑wheel drive or quattro all‑wheel drive, and a 6‑speed S tronic dual‑clutch transmission in most versions. It combines a high‑quality, minimalist interior with competitive safety and technology for its time, and provides fuel‑efficient performance across much of the range. While exact specs vary by market and trim, the 2016 A3’s defining characteristics are its refined driving manners, upscale cabin, and flexible engine lineup that spans efficient diesels and hybrids to genuinely quick performance models.

What are the specs of an Audi A3?

Elevate your driving experience in the Audi A3 with its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine; producing 201 HP and 236 lb-ft of torque. 7-speed S tronic®. For instantaneous driver enjoyment, the 7-speed S tronic offers a manual mode. With steering wheel-mounted shift paddles, the gearbox responds quickly to driver input.

What are the features of the Audi A3 2016?

► The A3 models come with premium standard features such as leather seating surfaces, power panoramic sunroof, Bluetooth® with audio streaming, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, HD radio™, dual-zone automatic climate control, split-folding rear seatback, Audi pre sense® basic, and xenon plus front lighting with LED daytime …
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Does the 2016 Audi A3 require premium gas?

Audi engineered its engines to ignite the gas inside the cylinders at precise compression levels. As a result, premium gas is recommended for peak performance. Gas stations sell fuel with octane ratings ranging from 87 to 94.

Is the 2016 Audi A3 fast?

In Edmunds testing, an A3 2.0 TFSI sedan accelerated from zero to 60 mph in a quick 5.8 seconds, while the heavier 2.0 TFSI convertible needed 6.2 seconds.