Believe it or not, the Audi A3 is still here with the small four-door being a presence in Audi’s lineup since 1996. However, Audi wants SUVs and BEVs to be the pillars of its future and while the A3 is making its return for 2025 it will be embracing the controversial In-Car Subscription service model.
Subscriptions & More Subscriptions Make Up Theme
The main changes to the Audi A3 are relatively minor when you look at the meat and potatoes of things. The reworked front fascia is the biggest change that buyers will see with the rest of the car getting minor revisions that add freshness to some of its lines.
The interior also gets lightly updated but it’s here where things get very controversial. The outgoing model’s 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster all carry over intact but for buyers that think they will be getting plenty of standard features for free will be in for a nasty surprise. While features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Smartphone integration and dual-zone climate control are indeed in the A3, they are now locked behind subscription paywalls.
To formally begin weaving through Audi’s web of subscription fees, owners will have to get the optional MMI-equipped navigation system which will give them access to the Audi app store. After you do that, you’ll then get access to Audi’s roster of subscription plans with various features being locked into available six-month, one-year, and three-year plans. Audi is still choosing to keep key details to itself including the final price for these plans as well as whether this scheme will also apply to U.S. spec models. Audi says that owners can avoid the subscriptions by purchasing the features permanently but it’s not known how much they will cost if chosen this way.
Hybrid and Diesel Engines to Remain In A3, No Word on U.S. Engines
While Audi is not ready to talk about what engines are on tap for U.S. spec models (assuming the A3 even comes to the U.S.) it’s known that European models will continue to offer buyers a wide array of engines. They include a 1.5-liter mild-hybrid four-cylinder that makes 148 hp and can be equipped with either a seven-speed automatic or a six-speed manual with the diesel-powered TDI matching its horsepower number. A PHEV version is also in the works but it won’t be available at launch.
In addition to the default Sportback and sedan models, the A3 will also be available as a new Allstreet hatchback variant which is supposed to do an impression of a small CUV. These models get a matte black front grille, 17-inch alloy wheels and minor styling touches that are supposed to help the hatch look more rugged in the eyes of adventure-seeking buyers.
When Can I Buy One?
While the German brand is remaining tightlipped on whether the 2025 A3 will make it to our shores or not, reps did confirm that the base model will have a base European price of 35,650 with the sedan tacking on 800 extra. Meanwhile, the urban-ready Allstreet has a base sticker of 37,450.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.