In its third generation, the popular Audi A3 returned with reduced pricing, fuel-saving cylinder deactivation and more interior space.<br /><br />This next generation of Audi’s small hatchback was visually similar to the previous generation but an all-new flexible MQB modular platform lay under its skin, which it shared with the Skoda Octavia and Volkswagen Golf.<br /><br />The smaller three-door hatchback didn’t make it to Australia and the five-door ‘Sportback’ was the only bodystyle option.<br /><br />A slight increase to exterior dimensions translated in a boost to interior space with a total load area of 1220 litres with seats folded or 380L with seating unaffected.<br /><br />Pricey ‘Cylinder on Demand’ fuel-saving technology cut two cylinders under light load but only a small improvement to already good fuel economy made the $2,300 extra cost hard to justify.<br /><br />New 1.4-litre and 1.8-litre TFSI engines joined the 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre diesel engines offering a good choice of efficiency and performance.<br /><br />The smaller capacity petrol engine managed to produce 103kW/250Nm while returning fuel economy of 4.7 litres per 100km when optioned with CoD technology and 5.0 l/100km without.<br /><br />The larger 1.8-litre unit dispenses 132kW/280Nm with a combined fuel consumption of 6.6 l/100km and also gained Audi’s quattro four-wheel drive system.<br /><br />Two levels of equipment were available with the Attraction option representing an entry level and Ambition bringing more in the way of goodies but an extensive and expensive option list could trick up the A3 further still.<br /><br />Soft-top cabriolet and hot S3 versions followed later.