Black is the new white for the Audi A3

New Audi A3 Black Edition models emerge from the shadows this month to join the popular three-door, five-door Sportback and Cabriolet ranges. Combining dark and brooding looks with an exceptional specification that takes the top S line model as its basis, the new limited run A3 range can be ordered now priced from £22,215 OTR to £27,395 OTR, and will reach the UK in early February.

To set the tone, Black Edition models feature a de-chromed front grille and, in the Cabriolet versions, black surrounds for the roll bars and the shoulder line. 18-inch S line design alloy wheels with an exclusive dark titanium finish continue the theme in all three variants, and in the hatchbacks privacy glass extends from the B-pillar. For the full effect, these features are combined with Brilliant Black paint at no extra cost, but the fashionable no-cost option of Ibis White and the extra cost metallic options Phantom Black, Misano Red and Monza Silver are also available.

They may keep a lower profile in some respects, but the A3 Black Editions also make their presence very much felt in others, thanks not only to their sporting S line body styling treatments but also to their standard fit Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lamps.

Black interiors too
Inside, the Black Editions are marked out by high gloss Piano black inlays, and the already extensive S line specification is enhanced by a high output Bose speaker system, acoustic rear parking sensors and an exclusive flat-bottomed multi-function steering wheel.

The S line package also offers sports suspension, part leather-upholstered sports seats, electronic climate control and an Audi Concert audio system with single CD player and MP3 compatibility. In Cabriolet Black Edition models, available exclusively with a black acoustic hood, it also includes fully automatic hood operation and a wind deflector.

The new Black Edition specification is available in conjunction with the 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engines (160PS and 200PS) and the two advanced 2.0 TDI common rail engines (140PS and 170PS). It carries a premium of £905 over the equivalent S line model in each case which, when the additional equipment it offers is taken into account, represents a customer saving of £675 on the A3 Black Edition and £650 on the A3 Cabriolet Black Edition.