Audi is giving the A3 a tech-heavy refresh in Europe, but it comes with one familiar catch: fewer physical buttons. As Audi says, the 2026 Audi A3 is getting a redesigned interior with a new curved display setup. That includes an 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit and a 12.8-inch MMI panoramic display, giving the dashboard a wider, more digital look.
The less welcome change is that the dedicated climate controls have moved into the touchscreen. The steering wheel has also shifted away from traditional buttons, though Audi says it now uses a mechanical roller within the multifunction controls.
It is a move we have seen across plenty of modern cars, with brands cleaning up cabins by moving more controls into screens. But the problem is that not everyone wants to tap through menus just to adjust the temperature.
Audi has also revised the centre console, with the phone storage compartment now angled towards the driver. Wireless charging is included as well, rated at 25 watts.
The update is not just about the cabin. Audi has reorganised the A3’s driver-assistance systems into three packages: Tech, Tech plus, and Tech pro. Meanwhile, the most advanced setup combines adaptive cruise control with active lane guidance at speeds up to 130mph.
Depending on the model, it can also support automatic lane changes on highways, slow down at red lights, and move off again when the light turns green. Audi is also using online data to help lane guidance work in some urban and rural areas, even where road markings are not clearly visible.
Parking tech has also been upgraded, with surround-view cameras, autonomous parking support, and a trained parking feature that can store up to five individual parking manoeuvres.
There are no major changes to the body styles or powertrains. The range still includes Sportback, Sedan and A3 all street models, along with S3 and RS3 performance versions.
The refreshed Audi A3 is due to arrive at European dealerships from mid-September 2026. In Germany, prices start at €31,850 (approx. $36,300) for the A3 Sportback, rising to €57,200 (approx. $65,200) for the S3 and €68,500 (approx. $78,050) for the RS3.