The Audi A3 Sedan 30 TDI (116 hp) S tronic, produced from 2018 to March 2020, represents a key variant within the 8V facelift generation of Audi’s compact executive car. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and accessible entry point into the A3 Sedan range, this model catered to buyers prioritizing economy and refinement over outright performance. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel engines remained popular due to favorable taxation and fuel efficiency regulations. The 30 TDI utilized a modern diesel engine paired with Audi’s renowned S tronic dual-clutch transmission, offering a balance of practicality and driving comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A3 |
| Generation | A3 Sedan (8V, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 30 TDI (116 Hp) S tronic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | March, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.2-4.3 l/100 km (56 – 54.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6-3.7 l/100 km (65.3 – 63.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8-3.9 l/100 km (61.9 – 60.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 101-104 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 211 km/h (131.11 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 3250-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1750-3200 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DGTE |
| 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 | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1895 kg (4177.76 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 425 l (15.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 13 l (3.43 US gal | 2.86 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 | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4458 mm (175.51 in.) |
| Width | 1796 mm (70.71 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Height | 1416 mm (55.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2637 mm (103.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1526 mm (60.08 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A3 30 TDI is the DGTE engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family, known for its compact dimensions and efficiency. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque, and utilizes a common rail direct injection system for precise fuel delivery. The DGTE engine produces 116 horsepower at 3250-4000 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1750-3200 rpm. This torque curve provides good low-end responsiveness, making it suitable for everyday driving. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 6d-TEMP emission standards. Paired with the engine is Audi’s 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. This transmission offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The S tronic operates in both automatic and manual modes, allowing the driver to choose their preferred driving style.
Driving Characteristics
The 116 hp output and S tronic transmission deliver a respectable, though not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.9 seconds, and the top speed is 131 mph. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it feel more responsive in city driving and during overtaking maneuvers than the horsepower figure might suggest. Compared to higher-output A3 variants like the 2.0 TDI, the 30 TDI feels less powerful, particularly at higher speeds. However, the S tronic transmission helps to mitigate this by keeping the engine in its optimal power band. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, resulting in a comfortable and relaxed cruising experience. Compared to a manual transmission equipped A3, the S tronic offers greater convenience and ease of use, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A3 30 TDI S tronic typically came equipped with a solid base level of features. Standard equipment included Audi’s MMI radio plus infotainment system with a 7-inch display, Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as Sport and S line, added features like sport seats, upgraded interior trim, larger alloy wheels, and a sport suspension. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, advanced driver assistance systems (like adaptive cruise control and lane assist), and premium sound systems.
Chassis & Braking
The A3 Sedan 30 TDI utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort, but still offers decent body control in corners. The braking system consists of ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, ensuring safe and controlled braking in various conditions. The steering is an electric power steering system, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A3 30 TDI S tronic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and efficient option within the compact executive segment. It was praised for its fuel economy, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its more powerful siblings. Compared to the 2.0 TDI variants, the 30 TDI offered lower running costs but less performance. Against competitors like the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the A3 30 TDI held its own in terms of refinement and technology, but often lagged slightly in terms of driving dynamics.
Legacy
The DGTE engine, while not known for being a high-performance unit, has proven to be relatively reliable. Common issues, if any, are typically related to the DPF system, requiring periodic regeneration or, in some cases, replacement. The S tronic transmission is generally robust, but regular servicing with the correct oil is crucial for longevity. In the used car market, the A3 30 TDI S tronic represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and well-equipped compact sedan. Its relatively low running costs and comfortable driving experience make it a popular choice for daily commuting and long-distance journeys.
