Controls and Displays

Digital, easy to understand, and intuitive: The new A3 models feature a newly developed control and display concept with a flat menu structure and symbols that are familiar from smartphones. Audi has replaced the rotary pushbutton on the center tunnel with a large MMI touch display that provides acoustic feedback. It has a 10.1-inch diagonal, is configured as an MMI radio plus as standard, and is used to control the infotainment system as well as a number of comfort functions. The driver receives acoustic feedback when selecting a function. The system also allows the driver to enter text in handwriting: It recognizes individual letters, cursive writing, whole words, and letters written on top of each other. The MMI search provides a list of suggestions even after just a few characters are entered.

Alternatively, the system can be controlled by natural language voice control. This feature also comes as standard. The A3 turns into an intelligent conversation partner: the driver can formulate his instructions freely and the dialog manager responds to them. For example, the system understands questions such as “Where is the nearest Italian restaurant?” and displays matching restaurants nearby. If the customer books the Audi connect navigation & infotainment plus package, the system also performs an online comparison, which improves the rate of recognition and the quality of the results.

The new A3 models also come with a digital instrument cluster as standard. It has a 10.25-inch diagonal and is operated via the multifunction steering wheel. In combination with MMI navigation plus, the displays appear in the Audi virtual cockpit, which has many additional functions, such as the large navigation map display. The larger Audi virtual cockpit plus with a 12.3-inch diagonal and a resolution of 1,920 x 720 pixels is even more attractive. It offers three different views, including graphics with a particularly sporty look.

A head-up display completes the control and display concept of the new A3. It projects important information, including from some connect services and assist systems, into the driver’s immediate field of vision on the windshield. The image appears to be at a distance of 2.2 meters (7.2 ft).

All terms in blue in the text are explained in detail in the technology lexicon at www.audi-mediacenter.com/en/technology-lexicon.

The equipment, data and prices stated here refer to the model range offered for sale in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.