2016 Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 TDI 150 S line first drive

Unless you’ve been exploring the North Pole for the last 20 years, you’ll probably recognise this as an Audi A3. Originally launched back in 1996, it quickly became Audi’s best-selling car.

Now in its third generation, the A3 has received a fairly significant facelift - not that you’d probably notice at first glance. From the outside, there’s new headlights and tail-lights, a sharper, broader grille, and some new colours and wheels.

Inside, you can opt for Audi’s 12.3in Virtual Cockpit configurable digital display in place of conventional instruments, and connectivity is also enhanced. Under the skin, there’s a choice of two new engines (a 1.0-litre triple and a 2.0-litre petrol turbo) and additional safety kit. We’re looking at the most popular version, though; the 2.0-litre TDI Sportback in S line trim.

There have been no changes to the 148bhp, 2.0-litre TDI engine or suspension setup so the driving experience is the same as it’s always been. That means this A3 is a car that can cover ground briskly without ever feeling truly entertaining.

The A3 is certainly pleasant to drive, however, the steering is nicely weighted unless you put it in sticky-feeling Dynamic mode, the gearchange is slick and the engine has plenty of pull from less than 1500rpm. That’s handy because the gearing is on the long side.

It’s easy to precisely place the front of the car, turn-in feels keen and grip is plentiful. You won’t feel much roll either, certainly not on the 15mm lower sports suspension that comes as standard on S line cars.

Quick through corners it may be, but you never get the sense the A3 is particularly playful. You also feel plenty of the road’s imperfections through the seat of your pants - it takes a very smooth road for the ride to be totally calm.

Thankfully you can opt for a slightly softer suspension setup for free if you’re dead set on S line trim. It won’t transform the A3 but should make it a more relaxed cruiser. Better still, look at one of the smaller wheeled Sport models, because the S line’s 18in rims do it no favours.

Few buy an A3 because they want B-road thrills, however. No, you’d probably be more interested in the high-quality interior and glitzy new tech. Step inside and you can’t argue with the array of soft-touch materials  and precise controls.

Naturally, there are some harder materials lower down the dashboard, doors and centre console, but these are well hidden and to be expected on a car at this price point. Besides, you’re more likely to be drawn to the 7.0in infotainment screen and optional virtual cockpit.

This is the same system as fitted to the likes of the Audi R8 and Audi A4, enabling you to switch between traditional looking dials with a central info screen, to displays that prioritise the sat-nav, music, trip computer or telephone. It’s impressive, especially in how it conveys so much information so clearly and attractively.

Also new are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. After plugging our iPhone in, it took just a couple of inputs from the MMI controller between the seats to get it to connect to the car. If you prefer, you can still connect via 'old-fashioned' Bluetooth.