Except for the relatively limited cargo and passenger space, the 2016 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron has little, if any, drawbacks.
The 2016 A3 Sportback e-tron provides all the power and speed you would want out of an Audi with phenomenal mileage. Despite its conservative gas mileage, the A3 Sportback e-tron is a very fun and sporty ride.
Much like its gas tank, the 2016 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron has a relatively small scale. Still, the e-tron has a lot to offer for those looking for a sedan. As you would anticipate from a luxury brand like Audi, the e-tron is crafted from the finest materials and has several eye-catching features.
Features include its seven-inch digital display, or MMI, which rises from its compartment on top of the dashboard when the e-tron is turned on. The driver can navigate easily the intuitive infotainment system using the control knob.
Unsurprisingly, the 2016 A3 is lined with fine leather upholstery, which comes standard, and matte silver accents that truly speak to the brand’s signature look. These features come together in a sleek, flowing design that is also reflected in the e-tron’s tapered hatchback exterior.
Other standard features in the 2016 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron are: mobile charging unit, a parking system with rearview camera, Audio Sound System, Audi advanced key, Bluetooth, Audi drive select, Sirius satellite radio which comes with a complimentary three-month subscription, and a panoramic sun roof with retractable sunsheets.
However, the best aspect of the 2016 A3 Sportback e-tron is the fact that it is Audi’s first plug-in hybrid. The e-tron has been fitted with an electric motor as well as a 1.4-liter engine and a battery pack. This combination works to provide a 204 horsepower output and a very impressive mileage of 157 mpg. The electric battery on its own is able to provide enough energy for 31 miles. However, you can expect acceleration on the electric-only option to lag. In testing the e-tron scored a zero to 60 time of about 11 seconds when fully electric.
Because the A3 is Audi’s smallest car in the U.S., it should not come to a surprise that space is a bit limited. The back row is best suited for kids; most adults would find it a bit crammed, especially on long car rides. There also is not a lot of cargo space, which makes the e-tron best suited for a single person, and not so much for a family.
While the 2016 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron may be a little short on space, it is not short on mileage or luxury. The e-tron is a beautifully designed five-door hatchback with classic Audi styling. More importantly is the fact that it is Audi’s first U.S. hybrid model, which makes it easy to enjoy a luxurious ride while still saving loads on gas. If your ideal is a compact sedan with phenomenal mileage and high-end features, the 2016 Audi e-tron will suit your wants and needs.
The MSRP for the the 2016 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron starts at $37,900.
