Introduced in 2015, the A3 Sportback E-Tron was the latest vehicle to join Audi’s expanding lineup of plug-in hybrid and all-electric vehicles. The compact wagon has been a success for the brand, comprising almost 13 percent of A3 sales.
What's New for 2018
Refreshed just last year, the A3 Sportback E-Tron plug-in hybrid is a carryover model for 2018 but does receive some updates. Now standard for all models are Audi music interface and heated front seats (previously available on Premium Plus and above as a $500 option) while blind-spot monitoring becomes standard on Premium Plus trims. Also new for the Sportback E-Tron is a multi-spoke 18-inch wheel design is for the Sport package.
Choosing Your Audi A3 e-tron
The front-wheel drive A3 plug-in uses a 1.4-liter, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine and a permanent electric motor, which together produce 204 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The drivetrain includes a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.
EPA fuel economy figures for the 2018 model have yet to be released but with an unchanged powertrain, the vehicle should produce the same numbers as last year's model: 83 mpge in combined city and highway driving, or 34 mpg combined on premium fuel. In all-electric mode, the A3 E-Tron has a range of up to 16 miles. The vehicle’s total driving range is 380 miles, according to the EPA.
The 2018 A3 Sportback E-Tron is available in three trim levels.
The Audi A3 Sportback E-Tron does not have any direct competitors amongst the luxury set and offers more cargo flexibility versus other hybrid models, which generally come in sedan-only form. With the year-over-year price increases being minimal considering the added features, the Premium Plus trim with Technology Package is the way to go for premium benefits at a lower price – Audi Virtual Cockpit is a must-have option, after all. Add the Bang & Olufsen audio and you’re still below the starting price of the Prestige, which doesn’t offer as much bang for the buck.