In addition, Audi says, new materials have been applied for increased comfort, and highly specified and eye-catchingly designed Black Edition and Carbon Edition derivatives will form part of the range. Later this year, these models will be supplemented with the S3 Sportback and Sedan.

For the time being, Audi South Africa will offer the standard A3 range with the lauded 1.4-litre 35 TFSI turbocharged petrol engine developing 110kW and 250Nm of torque. It is coupled with a slick-shifting eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. Buyers can select either S line or Black Edition trim for the Sportback and Sedan models.

The RS 3 Sportback and Sedan, meanwhile, retain a 2.5-litre TFSI five-cylinder engine producing 294kW and 500Nm. The RS 3 accelerates to 100km/h from standstill in just 3.8 seconds, Audi claims. Here, Audi South Africa offers the option of standard or Carbon Edition trim lines, the latter bespoke to South Africa.

Prices:

A3 Sportback 35 TFSI S tronic S line / Black Edition (R808 200 / R834 500), A3 Sedan 35 TFSI S tronic S line / Black Edition (R823 200 / R849 500), RS 3 Sportback TFSI quattro S tronic / Carbon Edition (R1 498 200 / R1 591 900) and the RS 3 Sedan TFSI quattro S tronic / Carbon Edition (R1 528 200 / R1 610 700).