Audi is giving its popular A3 hatchback a dose of the updates for 2026, with the biggest change being an all-new interior.
What's new about the Audi A3's cabin?
The most obvious change is that the A3 now gets the same, sweeping, 'panoramic' digital dashboard setup as most other Audi models, whereby the 11.9-inch driver's instrument panel and the 12.8-inch infotainment 'MMI' screen are conjoined under a single, curved panel.
There are also new dash insert trims, and you can choose from four materials for those - carbon fibre, Dinamica microfiber, and two textile fabrics: a new one called 'Light Crepe' is now available alongside the familiar 'Impressum black.'
Click here to read our reviews of the Audi A3 models.
Imagine telling your Audi dealer you fancy a light crepe…
I know. Will they give you a pancake or a roll of toilet paper? There are also new steering wheels, which come in two different designs, with the sportier three-spoke versions getting a flat-top and flat-bottom. More importantly, these new steering wheels see the return of proper buttons, with physical scrollers instead of those annoying haptic touchpads.
What about safety in the updated Audi A3?
Audi is giving the A3 a major safety upgrade, and is splitting its available safety systems into three tiers - Tech, Tech Plus, and Tech Pro.
Tech is the stuff you expect, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping steering, driver monitoring, and speed limit warnings.
Tech Plus and Tech Pro, depending on the model, add items such as the new 'swarm data' function for lane keeping, which can take cues from other similarly equipped cars in the vicinity so that it can maintain a safe lane position even when the road markings aren't visible.
There's an optional 3D surround-view camera system too, plus automated parking with parking manoeuvre memory and a remote-control function, so you can wiggle the car in and out of tight spaces while you stand outside.
Any other new tech in the updated Audi A3?
Audi's expanding the remit of the A3's mobile app, so you can check the parking brake, lights, and any doors or windows that may have been left open from your phone. There's also remote servicing data and the option of a remote-controlled cabin heater for chilly days.
Unfortunately, Audi is also expanding its 'functions on demand' service, where you pay for extra items, which have already been fitted, to be digitally switched on after you've bought the car. New to this dubious setup is a package that optimises the stereos' bass reproduction, balances volume levels between sources, and improves the quality of compressed audio signals. Also available is virtual surround sound, which simulates a variety of acoustic environments - from concert hall to recording studio.
Does the Audi A3 get a fully electric version?
Nope - if you want an all-electric Audi hatchback, you'll have to wait for the incoming new A2 e-tron. However, the A3 does come with a very broad range of engine options, from a humble, basic 1.5 litre 116hp turbo petrol, through to e-Hybrid models with more than 120km of electric-only range, and on to the mighty four-cylinder turbo S3 (333hp) and five-cylinder RS3 (400hp) high-performance models.
When can I buy the updated Audi A3 in Ireland?
We don't have Irish details for the updated A3 just yet, but European deliveries are set to start in September.