Spy shot of the 2025 Audi A3 Sportback

Audi's latest A3 just went on sale in the U.S. in 2021, but an updated version of this trendy compact car has already begun testing. This is because the latest A3 has been on sale outside the U.S. since 2020, and the mid-cycle update should be available by the end of 2023 or early the following year.

Prototypes spotted in the wild confirm that an update is in the planning stages. The latest spy shots show a prototype of an updated A3 Sportback hatch for sale abroad. A prototype of the A3 sedan for sale in the U.S. has also been spotted.

We now expect the updated A3 to arrive in showrooms in 2024 as a 2025 model. Again, it appears that only the sedan will be sold in the US.

The styling tweaks seen on the prototype are subtle. The front mask has been redesigned around the side intakes, while the rear has been redesigned with new taillight graphics and rear mask reflectors.

The latest A3, now in its fourth generation, is based on an updated version of Volkswagen Group's front-wheel drive MQB modular platform. Basically, it is twinned under the skin with the latest Volkswagen Golf, which will be updated at about the same time as the Audi. We also have spy shots of the updated Golf.

It is unclear if any changes are planned in the powertrain department; the A3 will be offered in the U.S. with a 2.0-liter turbo four mated to a mild hybrid system and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that produces 201 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque The car has front-wheel drive as standard, with all wheels driven. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is also available.

Buyers seeking higher performance can opt for the S3 and RS 3 models; the S3 also comes with a 2.0-liter turbo four, but with a healthier 306 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, while the RS 3 has 401 hp and 369 lb-ft A turbocharged 2.5-liter inline 5-cylinder will be available; both the S3 and RS 3 will come standard with all-wheel drive. Prototypes of the updated S3 and S3 Sportback have also been spotted.

Audi may also be planning a high-riding A3 Sportback that will debut alongside updates to the A3 range, like the smaller A1 Citycarver unveiled abroad in 2019. However, the automaker has yet to confirm plans for such a model.