Audi has thrown new engines, updated technology and styling enhancements at its best-selling compact hatchback to ensure it stays ahead of the curve.

The A3 was already a success story for the German premium manufacturer, so the launch of a revised model range was always going to be significant news in the motoring industry.

This week, I was among a group of UK motoring journalists invited to put the new range through its paces during the official UK launch event held at the historic Stanbrook Abbey Hotel, near Worcester.

Those arriving at the hotel were greeted by the sight of a line-up of gleaming A3s outside the main entrance (pictured below), including the elegant saloon and the stylish cabriolet.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

And it was immediately clear there had been some subtle yet noticeable design changes to the A3's exterior, notably a striking new front grille, revised headlight design and the addition of new alloy wheels.

Several new engines have also been introduced, including an entry-level 1.0-litre TFSI and a completely new 2.0-litre TFSI engine with its innovative combustion process.

These additions mean the A3 range now has a six-strong engine line-up, comprising three diesels and three petrol units with power outputs ranging from 110PS to 190PS.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

A key factor that stood out during the launch event was the remarkable choice available to potential buyers, with no fewer than 127 possible engine, body-type and trim combinations on offer.

The specification list includes a choice of SE, SE Technik, Sport or S line, with prices starting at £19,365 on the road for the 1.0-litre TFSI 115PS SE and rising towards and above £30,000 as you go up through the trim trail.

Once inside the A3's refined cabin, you're met with a superbly laid-out dashboard (see picture below), which benefits from the inclusion of the impressive Audi 'virtual cockpit'.

The fully-digital Virtual Cockpit, not previously available on the A3, can be viewed through two different modes - the Classic mode and Infotainment mode.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

At the click of a button, the driver can flick between four key areas of information: driving information, media and on-demand information, communication and navigation.

It's a clever piece of technology, which can be specified as an alternative to the standard analogue unit, and certainly further enhanced the A3 driving experience.

I started the day by taking the Cabriolet 1.4-litre TFSI S line version (pictured below) for a test drive on a circular route through the picturesque Malvern Hills.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

This variant features cylinder-on-demand efficiency technology, turning off two cylinders when the extra output is not needed.

Even in wet and tricky conditions, the handling of the car was quite superb, with weighty and accurate steering combining with excellent stability in the tighter bends.

This S line model came with sport suspension as standard, with the body sitting lower. This seemed to add extra suppleness and balance, inspiring great confidence as you approached corners briskly.

The 1.4-litre engine also provided punchy acceleration.

Later in the day, I turned my attention to the 2.0-litre TDI diesel with 148bhp and a six-speed manual gearbox.

The engine had a very muscular feel in the mid-range and picked up nicely when you needed power.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Finally, I drove the A3 Saloon 1.4 TFSI CoD S line 150 PS S tronic, which provided a decent combination of refinement and performance.

Again, refinement within the cabin was of a very high order, with less wind noise in the saloon than the cabriolet.

Another development worthy of note is the introduction of Matrix LED headlights as an option for the first time in this segment.

Meanwhile, the A3 also sets the standard when it comes to infotainment. MMI radio plus with the electronically extended seven-inch digital monitor is standard equipment. 

Audi is credited with kickstarting the premium hatch segment two decades ago with the first A3.

With the latest revisions, it has further improved on a tried and tested formula. Despite rivals trying to muscle in on Audi's success in this segment, the new-generation A3 looks set to continue dominating in terms of market share.

The Lowdown

A3 Cabriolet 2.0 TDI S line 150 PS

Emissions: 117* g/km
Tax band: C
Price: £31,340
Top speed: 139mph
Acceleration, 0-62mph in 8.8 seconds
Drive type: Front-wheel drive with electronic stabilisation control ESC
Clutch: Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch
Transmission type: Six-speed manual transmission, synchromesh on all gears