The Audi A3 (8V) facelift, produced from 2016 to 2017, offered a range of engine and transmission options designed to appeal to a broad European market. Among these, the 1.6 TDI with 110 horsepower and the 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission represented a popular entry point into the A3 lineup, prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability. This variant aimed at buyers seeking a premium hatchback experience with lower running costs, particularly in regions with high diesel fuel acceptance and taxation based on engine displacement and emissions. It served as a more economical alternative to the higher-performance petrol variants and the more powerful TDI models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A3 |
| Generation | A3 (8V, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (110 Hp) S tronic |
| Start of production | July, 2016 |
| End of production | February, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.3-4.6 l/100 km (54.7 – 51.1 US mpg, 65.7 – 61.4 UK mpg, 23.3 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.5-3.8 l/100 km (67.2 – 61.9 US mpg, 80.7 – 74.3 UK mpg, 28.6 – 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8-4.1 l/100 km (61.9 – 57.4 US mpg, 74.3 – 68.9 UK mpg, 26.3 – 24.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99-107 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 199.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 3200-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CRKB, CXXB, DBKA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1255 kg (2766.8 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1815 kg (4001.39 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 365 l (12.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1100 l (38.85 cu. ft.) |
| 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 | 660 kg (1455.05 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4241 mm (166.97 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Height | 1424 mm (56.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2602 mm (102.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Front overhang | 870 mm (34.25 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 769 mm (30.28 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 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 Stronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| 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; 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 17; 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A3 (8V) facelift, launched in 2016, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the third-generation A3. This update brought revised styling, enhanced technology, and updated engine options. The 1.6 TDI 110 hp S tronic variant was a key component of this lineup, particularly in European markets where diesel engines and automatic transmissions were highly favored. Positioned as an entry-level offering, it provided a balance between the A3’s premium image and accessible running costs. The 8V A3 competed directly with rivals like the BMW 1 Series, Mercedes-Benz A-Class, and Volkswagen Golf.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A3 variant is the 1.6-liter inline-four diesel engine, identified by engine codes CRKB, CXXB, or DBKA. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque, mitigating turbo lag and improving responsiveness. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a relatively high compression ratio of 16.2:1, typical for diesel engines. The S tronic 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is a crucial element, offering quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission operates with two separate clutches, pre-selecting the next gear for seamless shifts. The S tronic contributes significantly to both performance and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 TDI with 110 hp and the S tronic transmission delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 10.5 seconds, which is respectable but not particularly sporty. The engine’s 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque, available from 1500-3000 rpm, provides sufficient pulling power for overtaking and navigating urban environments. Compared to the more powerful TDI variants (like the 2.0 TDI) or the petrol-powered A3s, this version feels less eager to accelerate. However, the S tronic transmission helps to maximize the available power, providing quick downshifts and responsive acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, resulting in a comfortable and economical driving experience. The automatic transmission also makes it more accessible to drivers unfamiliar with manual gearboxes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 TDI S tronic A3 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, an infotainment system with a color display, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were standard. Higher trim levels, such as Sport or Technik, added features like automatic climate control, parking sensors, upgraded infotainment systems with navigation, and sport seats. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control.
Chassis & Braking
The A3 8V utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing a light and precise feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 TDI S tronic A3 was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical choice. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and the smooth operation of the S tronic transmission. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its more powerful siblings. Compared to the 2.0 TDI, the 1.6 TDI offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. The petrol-powered A3 variants provided more spirited driving but typically consumed more fuel. The 1.6 TDI appealed to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and practicality over outright performance.
Legacy
The 1.6 TDI engine, while generally reliable, has been subject to scrutiny regarding diesel emissions standards. However, the engine itself is known for its durability when properly maintained. The S tronic transmission, while sophisticated, can require more frequent servicing than a traditional automatic gearbox. In the used car market, the 1.6 TDI S tronic A3 represents a relatively affordable entry point into Audi ownership. Its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride continue to make it a popular choice for those seeking a practical and economical hatchback. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and transmission servicing, is crucial to ensure the long-term reliability of this powertrain.
