Audi A3 Gets Major Upgrade: Curved Dual-Screen Cockpit and Enhanced ADAS, Launching in Europe in 2026

Audi unveiled official images of the updated A3 series on June 24, showcasing further refinements following its mid-cycle refresh. The new model is expected to debut in the European market in September 2026, with a domestic (Chinese-market) version to follow shortly thereafter. Inside, the dashboard has been completely redesigned, replacing the previous split-screen setup with an integrated curved dual-screen display comprising an 11.9-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch central touchscreen. The curved glass panel tilts toward the driver for improved ergonomics. Physical HVAC buttons have been eliminated, with all related functions now integrated into the touchscreen interface. The center console layout has been optimized and now includes a 25W wireless fast charger. Four interior trim options are available, including carbon fiber and microfiber fabric, paired with a three-spoke sport steering wheel and a continuous ambient lighting strip. The intelligent driving assistance system is offered in three equipment levels, adding new features such as memory parking and remote-controlled parking. The highway assist function now supports full-speed-range lane centering and speed control. Exterior styling retains the overall silhouette of the current model, covering hatchback, sedan, Allroad crossover, and high-performance S3 and RS3 variants. The most notable updates focus on the lighting system: the matrix LED headlights feature a re-engineered internal structure and offer four customizable daytime running light signatures. Standard models receive three new lighting animations, the S3 gets its own unique lighting theme, and the RS3 retains its iconic checkered-flag lighting signature. No hardware changes have been made to the powertrain lineup. Overseas markets will offer a 1.0L turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine, a 1.5L turbocharged gasoline engine, and two plug-in hybrid variants with different power outputs. The plug-in hybrid models boast a maximum all-electric range of up to 143 km (WLTP). The S3 is powered by a high-output 2.0L turbocharged engine, while the RS3 continues with its 2.5L turbocharged five-cylinder engine; both come standard with Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. The Chinese-market version is expected to retain the 1.5T engine, producing 160 hp and 250 N·m of torque, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. In Europe, the hatchback variant starts at €31,850, while the RS3 starts at €68,500. In China, the entry-level model is expected to carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of approximately RMB 165,900.