Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line 2026 Review
Naming conventions aside, there’s something very honest and uncomplicated about the way Audi’s diminutive four-door sedan goes about its business. It’s a bit of a dying breed, too, with buyers migrating up to SUVs in a trend that’s elevated the similarly sized Q3 to high-grade status within the German brand. However, with the reintroduction of this quasi-performance variant, the TFSI quattro 150kW S line aims to deliver grace and pace. Essentially, it forms a steppingstone to the S models. Although, it comes at a premium price, which means the booted A3 needs to feel special, too – but does it?
How much does the Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line cost?
Audi is flip-flopping between nomenclature. Defining internal combustion engines against electric is no longer a case of odds and evens, while for the A3, the 35 and 40 designations have already been retired.
So, deep breath, the 2026 Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line swans in to create a pseudo-performance offering, with its 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine powering all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (S tronic).
It’s available in both Sedan and Sportback body styles, with the former coming in $3000 more than the latter. At $65,800 (all prices exclude on-road costs), the A3 Sedan’s price tag is more than mere spare change, but it gains mechanical and spec upgrades as justification.
The Sedan range starts at $57,800 for the front-wheel drive TFSI 110kW S line (subtract $3k for the Sportback), while the truly sporty S3 Sedan asks $81,727. The RS3 is another beast entirely.
Rivals include the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe as well as the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and the box-fresh CLA. Although, the Honda Civic is certainly worth a look despite not carrying a German badge. And it offers a frugal hybrid powertrain.
It’s covered by a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and the first five years of AudiCare roadside assistance is complimentary. Servicing is every 12 months or 15,000km (whichever comes first), with a five-year/75,000km prepaid maintenance plan costing $2520.
Opting to extend the warranty, roadside assistance and servicing plans to a maximum of nine years is also available via the Audi Advantage package.
What equipment comes with the Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line?
The fourth generation A3 received an update early last year with sharper design cues and tweaks to the spec levels. Those changes are reflected in the 2026 Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line we’re piloting here.
However, yet another update which centres around an overhauled interior with the new bar-style system seen in the Q3 that replaces traditional indicators and wiper stalks. Although, it’s unclear exactly when it’ll land Down Under.
For now, the A3 Sedan remains an attractive offering, with the sharpened, almost Lamborghini-style adaptive LED headlights, 18-inch Graphite Grey alloy wheels and a conventionally shaped roofline that tapers into the boot. It’s a demure, but attractive silhouette.
LED daytime running and tail-lights also feature, as does keyless entry that extends to each of the four doors. The 150kW S line also adds the black exterior styling package, which when paired with the Mythos Black metallic hue of our test car, generates a stealthy appearance.
Inside, the styling might not be as modern as the upcoming redesign, but it's functional with myriad physical controls. The faux-leather upholstery is plush, while this variant gains a pair of powered Sport seats (with memory) up front.
Ambient lighting (30 colours), an auto-dimming rear-view mirror as well as auto-dimming, heated and power-folding exterior mirrors are also part of the new model grade. Other key A3 inclusions are heated front seats and tri-zone climate control.
Although, our test car isn’t standard, with the $1990 Premium Plus package. It includes a memory function for the exterior mirrors and driver’s seat, SONOS 3D Premium sound system and a head-up display (which removes acoustic glass).
You can select a $2000 panoramic sunroof, while metallic paints are a rather pricy $1350. Ascari Blue (an Audi Sport colour) can take it a step further for $1850.
How safe is the Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line?
The 2026 Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line is covered by a five-star ANCAP safety rating that was awarded across the range in 2025. It scored consistently across all categories and is fitted with seven airbags, dual ISOFIX points and three top-tether anchorages.
It’s packed with active tech, too, but thankfully items like the driver attention/fatigue monitoring and road-sign detection are well calibrated and not intrusive with annoying audible alerts. It proves there’s value in paying the Euro tax for a honed product that won’t drive you mad.
Other highlights include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian, cyclist and junction detection, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring with side exit assist, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert and proactive occupant protection.
Park Assist Plus controls the steering, manoeuvring and braking to make executing the right spot a breeze. If you want to take matters into your own hands, there are parking sensors and a 360-degree view monitor.
What technology does the Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line feature?
While the upcoming interior overhaul brings aesthetic appeal and increases screen acreage, considering we found issues with some of the tech found in the new Q3, there’s value in sticking with the soon-to-be usurped package.
At 12.3 inches, Audi’s respected Virtual Cockpit works better with the A3’s dash design. Visually it’s more appealing, too, as it doesn’t suffer from the letterbox-style display the new version does. It can also showcase mapping with the addition of a few selectable themes/arrangements.
The 10.1-inch infotainment screen houses MMI navigation plus that affords wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both of which you’re likely going to want to use given Audi’s interface is workable more than it is delightful. A wireless Qi charge pad also comes in handy.
Other standard kit includes Bluetooth, native satnav, USB-C ports, DAB+ digital radio, voice activation and an unbranded 10-speaker sound system. Although, our tester gains the high-fidelity SONOS premium audio with 15 speakers, a subwoofer and a 16-channel amplifier with a total output of 680 watts.
Audi connect plus Navigation and Infotainment offers traffic, parking and weather information, while Audi connect plus Security and Assistance provides remote access, emergency call and service help via a smartphone app. The former comes with three years of complimentary licence, while the latter is up to 10 years.
What powers the Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line?
This is pretty much the reason to spend the extra $8000 and gain access to the 2026 Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line.
Under the bonnet is the Volkswagen Group’s esteemed 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. Unsurprisingly, it’s packing 150kW at 4500–6000rpm and 320Nm between 1500–4400rpm. Backing up the warm-ish engine outputs is a zero to 100km/h time of 6.3 seconds with launch control.
Which isn’t too shabby at all. And it feels as quick from behind the wheel without causing too much fuss. Its reserved exterior certainly doesn’t give too much away, while the soundtrack isn’t quite as spicy as some might like. Yet, others will appreciate the hushed mechanical nature.
The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is tied to the on-demand, Haldex-based ‘quattro’ AWD system, which means it’s predominately front-wheel drive until slip is detected. The S tronic gearbox also seems to work better with the 2.0-litre engine and while it still misbehaves slightly at slow speeds, it’s sharp and pleasing to use at speed.
There are four selectable driving modes, including Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual.
How fuel efficient is the Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line?
On paper the 2026 Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line is promising with a 6.5L/100km claim. Yet, in the real world, one where it’s all too easy to be tempted by the performance, that number is harder to achieve.
Throughout a week of city, suburban, highway and road-testing conditions, the four-door Audi racked up 7.9L/100km. It also demands its 55-litre tank be filled with at least 95 RON premium unleaded petrol.
What is the Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line like to drive?
While the performance figures and engine outputs are suggestive, the dynamic package of the 2026 A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line isn’t tuned to meet that theory.
Which is a good thing, because there are the S3 and RS3 for that. Yet, riding on the Volkswagen Audi Group’s MQB Evo platform, there’s a well of underlying goodness for the daily driver.
Comfort and liveability are at the forefront of the package, with the linear and tractable grunt under the bonnet being a bonus and not the focal point. Employing relatively compact dimensions means the A3 Sedan is easy to park and place, the steering is positive and light, while the view out is largely unobstructed.
The ride quality on the passive dampers is agreeable with enough absorption at slow speeds and composure as speeds rise. The A3 Sedan can somewhat struggle over sharp imperfections, but suspension hits are heard more than they’re felt. A lack of sound deadening also results in noticeable tyre roar on coarse-chip surfaces.
Ramp up the drive mode to Dynamic and the S tronic will start to hold onto gears too long (there are wheel-mounted paddles) and the steering gains unnecessary heft. So, it’s best to leave things in Comfort or Auto where the steering feel is more natural and pleasing.
Given the ‘quattro’ effect, purchase is never an issue with the Nexen tyres (225/40 R18). The A3 turns in nicely and tracks through corners well despite its softer nature. Essentially, the greatest takeaway from the 150kW S line’s handling is that it feels like a well-honed Euro product.
What is the Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line like inside?
The styling might not be as chic as what’s coming, but the 2026 Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line’s cabin heralds' simplicity with function over form.
If you’re a fan of old-school physical controls, it’s a winner. Adjusting the climate is logical with tactile buttons; the same goes for the volume and track changes as well as key features like the Drive Select and self-parking. Even the steering wheel eschews haptic feedback – although the cruise-control stalk is antiquated in 2026.
There’s a strong sense of build quality, too, and although the cabin is leather appointed instead of full grain, it’s all nicely done. The driving position offers a range of adjustment and the Sport front seats are a treat. The three-spoke S line steering wheel feels great in hand, but an overuse of piano black surfaces results in myriad fingerprints.
At 4505mm long, the A3 Sedan isn’t actually a small car. However, even with a wheelbase of 2630mm, legroom in the back seat isn’t abundant for adults. Headroom is more accommodating, while the inclusion of air vents and a third zone of climate controls is appreciated. As are the extra USB-C ports, netted pockets and the fold-down centre armrest.
The 40/20/40-split folding seatbacks enhance the versatility factor, allowing you to store longer items in the boot like you would the Sportback. Cargo capacity is decent at 425 litres, while a space-saver spare hides underneath the flat floor.
Should I buy an Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line?
Leveraging the research and development within VAG, the gurus at Ingolstadt know how to make its small cars shine. The proof is in the sales, with the A3 either matching or outpacing its key German rivals.
The 2026 Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line is a valid addition to the lineup – it just doesn’t come cheap. If you don’t view it through a dynamic lens, the added grunt is reassuring, and the extra kit ups the overall experience.
What’s more, it could be better to buy now instead of waiting for the revamped interior.
2026 Audi A3 Sedan TFSI quattro 150kW S line at a glance:
Price: $65,800 (plus on-road costs)
Available: Now
Powertrain: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 150kW/320Nm
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel: 6.5L/100km
CO2: 149g/km
Safety rating: Five-star (ANCAP 2025)
Related: Upgraded 2026 Audi A3 steps out
Related: Audi RS3 dead in Europe as of 2027, but not Australia
Related: Audi RSQ5 approaches production after prior V8 revelation
Related: Audi A3 Sedan 35 TFSI 2025 Review
- Extra power, torque and quattro justifies price jump
- Interior is flush with easy-to-use physical controls
- Looks and feels like a premium product
- Yes, it’s a premium product, but it’s getting expensive
- Not the roomiest back seat; road noise is an issue
- There’s a refreshed version already in the wings
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
