Audi A3 e-tron

Overview: Is the Audi A3 e-tron a good luxury plug-in hybrid hatchback?

The Audi A3 e-tron, also known as the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron, is an excellent choice for a hatchback that blends impressive efficiency, ample practicality, and high levels of luxury. It offers an electric-only range, a luxurious yet versatile interior, and a tech-rich cabin.

However, the Audi A3 e-tron's electric-only range is limited, and the battery pack takes up some cargo. In addition, the most desirable features are available on higher trims, and despite the engine-electric motor combo, acceleration seems lackluster. Moreover, it has a high price premium over the standard A3—the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron's base version costs around $33,000 when new.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for a used Audi A3 e-tron for sale.

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Related: Where Are Audis Made?

Key Features

The Audi A3 e-tron offers:

• A combination of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor
• Several driving modes, such as full electric, hybrid, and battery hold
• Audi's MMI system with navigation, smartphone integration
• Available advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning
• Power-adjustable front seats and a panoramic sunroof as standard
• A premium Bang & Olufsen sound system on higher trims

Trims

The 2018 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron was offered in three trim levels: the base yet well-appointed Premium, the more luxurious Premium Plus, and the feature-rich top-of-the-line Prestige.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The 2018 Audi A3 e-tron features supportive and comfortable seats for long trips. The suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, resulting in a smooth and refined ride. The cabin of the Audi A3 e-tron is also quiet during drives.

Audi provided the A3 e-tron with several advanced features, although many are available only on higher trims. Leading the tech package for the Audi A3 e-tron is the Audi MMI infotainment system, which features a rotary dial controller and includes navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity.

The battery's placement compromises the Audi A3 e-tron's cargo space. The A3 e-tron offers only around 13.6 cubic feet of cargo space, less than some of its rivals offer. Nevertheless, the hatchback design of the Audi A3 e-tron allows for easy cargo loading and unloading.

How It Drives

The Audi A3 e-tron's power core combines a turbo 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, delivering 204 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This is enough for smooth, responsive acceleration and power in most driving situations. However, due to its extra weight, the A3 e-tron doesn’t offer sporty acceleration and handling.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have not assigned any safety ratings for the Audi A3 e-tron. However, the IIHS named the conventionally powered Audi A3 sedan a Top Safety Pick for 2018.

Reviews

Audi A3 e-tron review at Edmunds gave the luxury hatchback a high rating of 4.2/5 stars. Around 67% and 13% of consumer reviews gave the Audi A3 e-tron 5-star and 4-star ratings, respectively. They cited the hatchback’s great mileage, practicality, and luxury. The low-rating reviews, meanwhile, questioned the A3 e-tron’s reliability.

Learn more: Audi Remote Start: The Full Rundown

Audi A3 e-tron FAQs

What is the range of the Audi A3 e-tron?

An Audi A3 e-tron, with its combination of electric motor and combustion engine, has an overall operating range of up to 584 miles.

Is the Audi A3 e-tron fully electric?

No, the Audi A3 e-tron isn’t fully electric. However, since the hatchback is a plug-in hybrid, an Audi A3 e-tron charger is included.

How long does an Audi A3 e-tron battery last?

While the battery warranty for an Audi A3 e-tron covers eight years or 100,000 miles, it could last more depending on care, maintenance, and even driving style.

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