The Audi A3 Sportback (8V, facelift) 1.0 TFSI, producing 115 horsepower, was a key variant in Audi’s compact hatchback lineup from 2016 to 2018. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the 8V generation A3 Sportback range, it aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, affordability, and the premium Audi experience. This model represented Audi’s move towards smaller displacement, turbocharged engines, aligning with European market trends favoring fuel economy and reduced emissions. It was primarily sold in the European market, where compact hatchbacks are exceptionally popular, but limited numbers were also available in other regions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A3 |
| Generation | A3 Sportback (8V, facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 TFSI (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5-5.8 l/100 km (42.8 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9-4.2 l/100 km (60.3 – 56 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5-4.8 l/100 km (52.3 – 49 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 104-110 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5000-5500 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CHZD |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1180 kg (2601.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1740 kg (3836.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1220 l (43.08 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4313 mm (169.8 in.) |
| Width | 1785 mm (70.28 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Height | 1426 mm (56.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2637 mm (103.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Rear track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Front overhang | 870 mm (34.25 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 806 mm (31.73 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A3 Sportback 1.0 TFSI is the CHZD engine, a 999cc, three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine is part of Audi’s modular engine family, designed for efficiency and scalability. It features direct fuel injection and a single scroll turbocharger with an intercooler, allowing for a relatively high power output for its size. The engine utilizes a timing chain for durability and a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. The engine’s small displacement and turbocharging contribute to its responsiveness, although outright acceleration isn’t its primary strength.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 TFSI-equipped A3 Sportback delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance. With 115 horsepower and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.4 seconds. While adequate for everyday driving, it’s noticeably slower than A3 variants equipped with larger engines like the 1.8 TFSI or 2.0 TFSI. The turbocharger provides a boost in power at higher RPMs, but the engine can feel somewhat strained when pushed hard. The manual transmission offers precise shifts, and the gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy. The relatively light weight of the engine contributes to balanced handling, but the front-wheel-drive configuration can exhibit some understeer during aggressive cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.0 TFSI A3 Sportback typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included alloy wheels, air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a central display screen, and basic safety features like ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, such as Sport and S line, added features like sport seats, upgraded interior trim, and more advanced infotainment options. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and a premium sound system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade.
Chassis & Braking
The A3 Sportback 1.0 TFSI utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is electric power-assisted, offering light and precise control. The chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.0 TFSI A3 Sportback was generally well-received by critics as an economical and practical option within the premium hatchback segment. It was praised for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but some reviewers noted its lack of outright performance compared to higher-powered variants. Compared to the 1.8 TFSI A3, the 1.0 TFSI offered significantly better fuel economy but slower acceleration. The 1.8 TFSI was considered a more engaging driving experience, while the 1.0 TFSI prioritized efficiency. The 2.0 TDI diesel variant offered even better fuel economy and more torque, but at the expense of refinement and potential diesel emissions concerns.
Legacy
The 1.0 TFSI engine proved to be a reliable unit, with relatively few reported issues. The engine’s timing chain is generally durable, and the direct injection system is well-engineered. However, as with any turbocharged engine, regular maintenance and the use of high-quality oil are crucial. On the used car market, the A3 Sportback 1.0 TFSI represents a relatively affordable entry point into the Audi brand. Its fuel efficiency and low running costs make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a practical and economical premium hatchback. While not the most exciting A3 variant, it offers a compelling combination of value, efficiency, and the Audi ownership experience.
