More power, efficiency, cost for Audi A3

Audi has updated its popular A3 hatch, sedan and cabriolet with a series of under-bonnet tweaks for 2015.

The brand has raised prices across the board for its best-selling model range that accompanies increased efficiency and power.

The entry level A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI benefits from a 2kW power gain to produce 92kW, along with a 0.1L/100km fuel use reduction to an official figure of 4.9L/100km, along with a $300 price increase to $35,900.

Frugal models with cylinder-on-demand technology have seen power increase from 103kW to 110kW while retaining 4.7L/100km efficiency in sedan form and 4.9L/100km for the cabriolet. Sedan and convertible customers pay $300 for the upgrade, while the 2015 five-door hatch costs $600 more.

Punchy 2.0TDI and 1.8TFSI models retain power outputs but benefit from a 0.1L/100km increase in efficiency that costs between $300 and $800 depending on body styles.

The high-performance Audi S3 Quattro Sportback, sedan and cabriolet costs $1200 more in 2015, but benefits from a power increase from 206kW to 210kW.

The revised models are on sale now, with price and specification changes applying to all model year 2015 vehicles. Trainspotters will struggle to identify updated models, which are identical to previous cars inside and out.

The updates will help Audi contend with upcoming changes for rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and BMW 1-Series.

2015 Audi A3 prices: