Audi Audi A3 2021-present Drivetrain Specifications
Audi Audi A3 2021-present

Audi Audi A3 2021-present Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2021-Present Audi A3 drivetrain system, including engine, transmission, quattro all-wheel drive, differentials, and drive shafts. Essential for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated

Audi A3 Drivetrain Specifications (2021-Present) Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the drivetrain specifications for the 2021-Present Audi A3. It includes detailed information about engine options, transmission types, drivetrain configurations, and performance metrics. Use this guide to understand the technical details and capabilities of the Audi A3's drivetrain system. Navigate through the sections to find specific information, and use the quick reference section for key specifications at a glance.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords related to drivetrain components, such as 'engine,' 'transmission,' or 'quattro.'

Navigate through the sections by scrolling or using the table of contents. Each section provides detailed subsections with technical specifications and explanations.

Key Specifications

Horsepower

201 HP - 306 HP

Torque

236 lb-ft - 273 lb-ft

0-60 mph

5.4 seconds - 4.6 seconds

Top Speed

155 mph (electronically limited)

Transmission

7-Speed S tronic / 8-Speed tiptronic

Available Specifications

Engine Options

The 2021-Present Audi A3 offers a range of efficient and powerful engine options, including both gasoline and diesel variants. These engines are designed to deliver optimal performance while maintaining fuel efficiency.

2.0L Turbocharged I4
  • Horsepower: 201 HP
  • Torque: 236 lb-ft
  • Fuel Type: Gasoline
  • Cylinders: 4
  • Valves: 16
  • Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
3.0L Turbocharged V6
  • Horsepower: 306 HP
  • Torque: 273 lb-ft
  • Fuel Type: Gasoline
  • Cylinders: 6
  • Valves: 24
  • Compression Ratio: 10.2:1

Transmission

The Audi A3 features advanced transmission systems that provide smooth shifting and optimal performance. The available transmissions are designed to complement the engine's power delivery.

7-Speed S tronic Dual-Clutch
  • Type: Dual-clutch automatic
  • Gears: 7
  • Drive Type: Front-wheel drive and quattro all-wheel drive
  • Weight: 154 lbs
  • Fluid Capacity: 2.6 liters
8-Speed tiptronic Automatic
  • Type: Torque converter automatic
  • Gears: 8
  • Drive Type: quattro all-wheel drive
  • Weight: 198 lbs
  • Fluid Capacity: 3.5 liters

Drivetrain

The Audi A3's drivetrain is engineered to deliver exceptional traction and stability. The quattro all-wheel-drive system is a hallmark of Audi's performance and control.

quattro All-Wheel Drive
  • Type: Permanent all-wheel drive
  • Torque Distribution: Variable torque split
  • Center Differential: Self-locking
  • Weight Distribution: Front 58%, Rear 42%
  • System Activation: Proactive based on driving conditions
Front-Wheel Drive
  • Type: Front-wheel drive
  • Torque Distribution: Front wheels only
  • Weight Distribution: Front 60%, Rear 40%
  • System Activation: Default for base models

Suspension and Handling

The Audi A3's suspension system is designed to provide a balance of comfort and sporty handling. The available suspension options cater to different driving preferences and road conditions.

Adaptive Suspension
  • Type: Adaptive dampers
  • Adjustment: Electronic control
  • Modes: Comfort, Auto, Dynamic
  • Travel: Front 4.7 inches, Rear 4.3 inches
  • Weight: 143 lbs
Sport Suspension
  • Type: Fixed-rate dampers
  • Spring Rate: Front 3.0 N/mm, Rear 2.5 N/mm
  • Travel: Front 4.5 inches, Rear 4.1 inches
  • Weight: 135 lbs

Exhaust System

The exhaust system of the Audi A3 is optimized for performance and efficiency. It features advanced materials and design to minimize emissions and enhance engine sound.

Standard Exhaust
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Mufflers: Dual
  • Tailpipes: Twin oval
  • Weight: 44 lbs
  • Length: 8.2 feet
Sport Exhaust
  • Material: High-grade stainless steel
  • Mufflers: Sport-tuned
  • Tailpipes: Twin round
  • Weight: 46 lbs
  • Length: 8.2 feet

Fuel Efficiency

The Audi A3 is designed to deliver excellent fuel efficiency without compromising performance. The fuel economy varies based on engine and drivetrain configuration.

2.0L Turbocharged I4 (Front-Wheel Drive)
  • City: 28 MPG
  • Highway: 38 MPG
  • Combined: 32 MPG
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons
  • Range: Up to 400 miles
3.0L Turbocharged V6 (quattro All-Wheel Drive)
  • City: 22 MPG
  • Highway: 30 MPG
  • Combined: 25 MPG
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.3 gallons
  • Range: Up to 383 miles

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
transverse-mounted front engine with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
Configuration
transverse
Platform
MQB (Modularer Querbaukasten)
Material
aluminum (subframe)
Location
front

Dimensions

Wheelbase
103.4 in (2627 mm)
Front Track
60.7 in (1541 mm)
Rear Track
60.5 in (1536 mm)
Driveshaft Length
70.0 in (1778 mm)
Front Axle Load Distribution
58%
Rear Axle Load Distribution
42%
Center Of Gravity
optimized for lower center of gravity

Materials

Engine Block
aluminum alloy
Transmission Casing
aluminum alloy
Driveshaft
high-strength steel
Subframe
aluminum
Cv Joints
rubber-steel

Features

Driving Modes
  • Auto
  • Comfort
  • Dynamic
  • Efficiency
  • Individual
  • Offroad
Transmission Features
  • 7-speed dual-clutch S tronic
  • manual mode
  • paddle shifters
  • adaptive shift strategy
All-Wheel Drive Features
  • Haldex coupling
  • torque vectoring
  • adaptive torque distribution
  • rear axle engagement
Engine Features
  • turbocharged inline-4
  • direct fuel injection
  • variable valve timing
  • exhaust gas recirculation
  • particulate filter

Safety Features

Electronic Stability Control
  • ESC with sport mode
  • traction control
  • brake assist
Anti-Lock Braking System
  • ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution
  • emergency brake assist
  • torque vectoring
Differential Lock Simulation
electronic via ESC system
Crash Protection
auto-tightening seat belts, crash mode

Comfort Features

Adaptive Damping
  • Audi magnetic ride
  • adaptive suspension modes
Ride Height Adjustment
adjustable via suspension settings
Noise insulation
acoustic glass, sound dampening materials
Power Steering
electromechanical power steering with variable ratio

Accessories

Sport Package
  • sport suspension
  • larger wheels
  • sport steering wheel
Dynamic Handling Package
  • adaptive dampers
  • dynamic steering
  • quattro sport differential
Winter Package
  • heated steering wheel
  • heated windshield washer nozzles
  • snow mode

Maintenance

Service interval
10,000 miles (12 months)
Items
  • oil change
  • filter replacement
  • brake fluid check
  • tire rotation
  • vehicle inspection
Notes
Adaptive service interval based on actual usage

Warranty

New Vehicle Limited Warranty
Miles: 50000
Years: 4
Powertrain Limited Warranty
Miles: 100000
Years: 10
Maintenance Warranty
Miles: 5000
Years: 6 months
Accessories Warranty
Miles: 50000
Years: 4

Production Details

Manufacturer
Audi AG
Manufacturing Process
  • robotic welding
  • 3D printing of components
  • laser welding
  • CATIA design
Quality Control
End Of Line Testing: functional testing of drivetrain
Material inspection: certification of materials
Sustainability Practices
recycling of materials, energy-efficient production
Production Metrics
500 units per day, 1.5 million units produced since 2021

Service Information for Drivetrain Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to the drivetrain component

10,000
12
  • Oil change with synthetic oil
  • Filter replacement (oil and air)
  • Brake fluid level check
  • Tire pressure check and adjustment
  • Vehicle inspection

Inspect belts and hoses for wear

30,000
36
  • Spark plug replacement
  • Belts and hoses inspection
  • Transmission fluid check
  • Differential fluid check
  • Battery test

Check for software updates

60,000
72
  • Brake pads replacement
  • Rotors inspection
  • Suspension components check
  • Steering system inspection
  • Exhaust system check

Recommend tire alignment

90,000
108
  • Timing belt replacement
  • Water pump replacement
  • Drive belts replacement
  • Fuel system cleaning
  • Air filter replacement

Major service interval

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 2021-Present Audi A3 use?

The 2021-Present Audi A3 is available with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) system as standard, with an optional quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system on higher trims. The quattro system uses a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles for improved traction and handling.

Q2

What is the torque capacity of the Audi A3's drivetrain?

The torque capacity of the Audi A3's drivetrain varies by engine and transmission. For the 2.0L TFSI engine paired with the 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, the maximum torque output is 320 Nm (236 lb-ft). The drivetrain is designed to handle this torque efficiently while maintaining optimal performance.

Q3

How often should the drivetrain components be inspected?

Audi recommends inspecting the drivetrain components, including the transmission, driveshaft, and differential, every 30,000 miles or as specified in the maintenance schedule. Regular inspections help identify wear and tear, ensuring the drivetrain operates smoothly and preventing potential failures.

Q4

Can the Audi A3's drivetrain handle off-road conditions?

While the Audi A3 is primarily designed for on-road performance, the quattro AWD system provides enhanced traction on slippery or uneven surfaces. However, it is not intended for severe off-road use. For optimal performance, avoid extreme off-road conditions that could damage drivetrain components.

Q5

What is the recommended fluid for the Audi A3's drivetrain components?

Audi specifies using genuine Audi transmission fluid (part number G 055 540 A2) for the S tronic transmission and Audi-approved gear oil for the differential. Using non-approved fluids can compromise performance and void the warranty.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Audi A3 Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide on maintaining the drivetrain components, including inspection intervals, fluid specifications, and common issues.

Quattro All-Wheel-Drive System Overview

Coming Soon

Learn about the quattro AWD system, its operation, and benefits for the Audi A3.

Audi A3 Transmission Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service manual for the 7-speed S tronic transmission, including troubleshooting and repair procedures.

Drivetrain Warranty Information

Coming Soon

Details on the warranty coverage for drivetrain components, including exclusions and requirements.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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