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2018 Audi A3 Plug-in Hybrid review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Audi A3 Plug-in Hybrid highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Pros

  • Useful electric-only miles
  • Stylish exterior design
  • Upscale passenger environment
  • Hatch-opening cargo bay has plenty of cubes

Cons

  • Underwhelming acceleration
  • Most desirable tech is exclusive to higher trims

Battery range (EPA estimate)

16 miles

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

Sportback sedan with impressive credentials

Seating five comfortably and offering impressive cargo space for shopping or hobbies, the 2018 A3 Plug-In hybrid is a hatch-style sedan on the move. It excels on daily commutes and long-distance trips, with the ability to take you further between fill-ups, or the option to cover some all-electric miles when fully charged. Easy to like and enjoyable to drive, the 2018 A3 Plug-in hybrid stands out from the pack, with only minor changes to trim features and package content.

All Audi A3 Plug-in Hybrid years

What is new for the 2018 Audi A3 Plug-in Hybrid?

  • A3 Plug-in Hybrid trims have been upgraded with Sunroof(s) and Lane Departure Warning as standard equipment this year.
  • Full Roof Rack and DVD Video System features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The Premium Plus trim now comes with Navigation System as standard equipment.
  • The Premium trim now comes with Front Seat Heaters and Navigation System as standard equipment.

2018 Audi A3 Plug-in Hybrid trims

Curious how Audi A3 Plug-in Hybrid trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Premium:

  • 204-hp, 258-lb-ft of torque 1.4L
  • Sunroofs
  • Rear Defroster
  • Cruise Control
  • Leather Seats
  • Power Seats
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control

Premium Plus:

  • Includes all features available on the Premium
  • Parking Sensors

Prestige:

  • Includes all features available on the Premium Plus
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Android Auto
  • Bang & Olufsen Audio

5 reasons to buy the 2018 Audi A3 Plug-in Hybrid

1. Elegant interior 

Boasting a fine mix of deluxe material finishing and advanced technology, the 2018 A3 Plug-in Hybrid is a welcoming place to journey through the miles. Standard leather upholstery in black, gray, or chestnut brown sets the tone, while the panoramic sunroof connects your passengers to natural light or deep starry skies. Step up to the Premium Plus trim for an upgraded Bang & Olufsen® sound system, while the Prestige trim adds two USB ports for your rear-row passengers. 

2. Versatile hybrid powertrain 

Enjoy more miles between fill-ups and the option to go all-electric with the 2018 A3 Plug-In Hybrid. The powertrain comprises a 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine, with an 80-kW electric motor and onboard battery, for a total output of 204 hp. Running a local errand? The 2018 A3 Plug-In Hybrid can run on all-electric power for up to 16 miles when fully charged.

On longer journeys, use both power sources together for an EPA-estimated 83 MPGe combined when fully charged and traveling with a full tank of gas.
 

3. Useful storage dimensions 

Beyond its obvious curb appeal, the 2018 Audi A3 Plug-In Hybrid is a versatile five-seat hauler for your favorite people and their everyday essentials. With 13.6 cu-ft of space, accessed by the liftgate door, your crew can fill the trunk with hobby equipment, school books, and work bags, with volume to spare. Need more room? The split-folding rear seatback can help you accommodate longer items. While your crew is on the move, they can stow their travel essentials close by in the front and rear door cubbies. 

4. Sport-style tech options 

While refined practicality might be its calling card, there are still ways to pour more fun into your everyday driving with the 2018 A3 Plug-In Hybrid. Choose a 2018 model with the Sport package, and you’ll be able to enjoy supportive front sport seats, and a flat-bottom steering wheel with sports-style paddle shifters. The Premium Plus trim might catch your eye too if you want to add a high-tech element to your driving. This trim includes Audi’s virtual cockpit display that you can digitally configure to access both a classic gauge- or infotainment display mode. 

5. Generously-appointed trim levels 

Picking your ideal 2018 Audi A3 Plug-In Hybrid is the best kind of fun since its three trims are lavishly appointed. The Premium base trim has plenty of pleasing standard features, including heated power front seats, leather upholstery, and the convenience of Bluetooth® connectivity. Step up to Premium Plus if you’re keen to add more infotainment tech as this trim includes Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto integration. The range-topping Prestige trim includes adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and more.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

Audi A3 Plug-in Hybrid features and specs

Premium 2WD 4D Wagon

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leather Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Bang & Olufsen Audio
  • CD Audio
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Leather Seats
  • Parking Sensors
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Satellite Radio Ready

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

1.4L

Horsepower

204

Torque (ft-lbs)

258

Engine type

Plug-in Hybrid

Fuel capacity

10.6

Wheelbase

103.5"

Overall length

169.7"

Width

70.3"

Height

56.1"

Leg room

F 41.2"/R 35.4"

Head room

F 38.7"/R 37.5"

Front tires

P225/45HR17

Rear tires

P225/45HR17

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2018 Audi A3 Plug-in Hybrid FAQ


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