The Audi A3 Sportback 35 TFSI S tronic, produced from 2018 to 2020, represents a key iteration of the 8V generation A3 facelift. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the A3 Sportback lineup, this variant aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It served as a popular choice in European markets, where the A3 Sportback is highly regarded as a premium compact hatchback. This model year benefitted from updates introduced during the 8V facelift, including revised styling, updated infotainment systems, and enhanced driver assistance features. The 35 TFSI designation signified a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 150 horsepower, paired with Audi’s seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A3 |
| Generation | A3 Sportback (8V, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 35 TFSI (150 Hp) S tronic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3-4.4 l/100 km (54.7 – 53.5 US mpg, 65.7 – 64.2 UK mpg, 23.3 – 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.0-5.2 l/100 km (47 – 45.2 US mpg, 56.5 – 54.3 UK mpg, 20 – 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 115-117 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 118.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DPCA |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.9 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1270 kg (2799.87 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1855 kg (4089.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 585 kg (1289.7 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4313 mm (169.8 in.) |
| Width | 1785 mm (70.28 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Height | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2637 mm (103.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Rear track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A3 35 TFSI is the DPCA engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Volkswagen Group’s EA211 family, known for its compact design and efficiency. A key feature is its Miller cycle combustion process, which improves thermal efficiency by reducing pumping losses. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for precise control and improved fuel economy. Turbocharging, provided by a single twin-scroll turbocharger, boosts power output. The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is integral to the driving experience. This transmission offers rapid, seamless gear changes and contributes to the car’s overall efficiency. The S tronic features two separate clutches, one for even and one for odd gears, allowing for pre-selection of the next gear for quicker shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 35 TFSI engine provide adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 7.8 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 136.7 mph. While not a sports-oriented variant, the 35 TFSI offers a responsive driving experience, particularly in S mode on the S tronic transmission. The S tronic transmission’s quick shifts contribute to a feeling of agility. Compared to the more powerful 40 TFSI variant, the 35 TFSI offers a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency, with taller gearing in higher gears for comfortable highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A3 Sportback 35 TFSI S tronic typically came equipped with a generous array of standard features. These included Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a 7-inch display, Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, and a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were standard. Optional extras included upgrades to the infotainment system (such as the Audi Virtual Cockpit), a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and various driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The A3 Sportback 35 TFSI utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to balance handling and ride comfort, making it suitable for both city driving and longer journeys. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, ensuring effective braking performance in various conditions. The steering is an electric power steering system, offering precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A3 35 TFSI S tronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. Critics noted that while not the most exciting variant in the A3 lineup, it offered a compelling combination of practicality and premium features. Compared to the 40 TFSI, the 35 TFSI offered better fuel economy, but at the expense of some performance. The 35 TFSI also represented a more affordable entry point into the A3 range, making it accessible to a wider range of buyers. Against competitors like the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the A3 35 TFSI was often seen as offering a more balanced package in terms of comfort, technology, and value.
Legacy
The 1.5-liter DPCA engine and S tronic transmission pairing have proven to be relatively reliable in the A3 Sportback. While some early examples experienced minor software glitches with the infotainment system, these were generally addressed through software updates. The engine itself is known for its durability, provided it is properly maintained. On the used car market, the A3 35 TFSI S tronic remains a popular choice, offering a good balance of price, features, and running costs. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance requirements make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a premium compact hatchback.
