The new A3 from Audi is nearly identical to the 2012 A3, at least as far as length and height, but it will be slightly wider and will feature a longer wheelbase. The weight of the A3 has been very appealing to buyers and consumers are hoping the new A3 will have the same aluminum front fenders and hood which have saved the 2012 A3 around eighty pounds. The really exciting thing about the new A3 is how well it will connect owners to the outside world with technology.

The interior has been redesigned and has a “floating” dashboard with round air vents. It also features a redesigned instrument cluster and climate control panel. The optional 3D color display for the Driver’s Information System has an ultra thin retractable MMI monitor. Another ergonomic innovation is the MMI navigation plus with MMI touch which is designed as a touchpad. With it, drivers can use finger motion or gesture based control to input letters and numbers easily. This is a first for the auto industry.

The new A3 excels in many other areas. It’s driver assistance systems range from radar assisted cruise control to side assist, active lane assist, traffic sign detection, park assist and the pre-sense basic safety system. The latest A3 has an information system that includes a Bang & Olufsen audio system, MMI navigation plus and mobile phone preparation with online services to bring “real time” online traffic information and using a WLAN hotspot, allows A3 passengers to access the internet while traveling.