The Audi A3 has consistently been highly-rated for it’s blend of compact luxury, performance and technology. As a result, its consistently a popular choice for people looking for a premium driving experience without shelling out to enter the full-size luxury segment.
The real charm of the A3 isn’t just its factory specifications, it’s the huge potential it has for modification and customisation. In this article we’ll explore the best upgrades to take your A3 to the next level.
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1. ECU Remapping
ECU remapping is the best route to quick and significant performance gains in your A3. The TFSI engine serve as an excellent foundation responding well to tuning. The ECU is essentially the brain behind your engine, controlling things like your fuel delivery, air intake and ignition timing. A remap adjusts these parameters to optimal levels for your engine, unlocking significant gains in power and torque.
We took an Audi A3 (8V) 2.0 TFSI through a stage one tune which took the car from stock 187bhp up to 250bhp, while pushing torque from 236lb/ft to 300lb/ft without any other mods!
The 2.0 TFSI isn’t the only engine you can find gains in, you can see similar results with a 1.4 TFSI, which after a stage one can expect to move from 147bhp to 185bhp (25% increase) and 184lb/ft to 215lb/ft (16% increase). It’s important to note that not every engine is built the same, so you can expect to see some variation on either side of the results.
Audi A3 Before and After ECU Tuning
Below is a detailed comparison showcasing the original and expected modified performance metrics across various A3 models. This illustrates the kind of results you can expect to see from a a stage one ECU remap, significantly boosting horsepower and torque. Whether you own a 1.0 or 2.0 TFSI, you’ll feel the difference when pushing the accelerator.
Original BHP | Modified BHP | Original Torque | Modified Torque | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1.0 TFSI (2016>) | 113bhp | 133bhp | 148lb/ft | 165lb/ft |
1.2 TFSI (2013>) | 103bhp | 125bhp | 129lb/ft | 155lb/ft |
1.2 TFSI (2014>) | 108bhp | 130bhp | 129lb/ft | 155lb/ft |
1.4 TSI (2012>) | 120bhp | 152bhp | 148lb/ft | 195lb/ft |
1.4 TSI (2012>) | 138bhp | 178bhp | 185lb/ft | 247lb/ft |
1.4 TFSI (2014>) | 123bhp | 180bhp | 148lb/ft | 210lb/ft |
1.4 TFSI (2014>) | 147bhp | 185bhp | 184lb/ft | 215lb/ft |
1.8 TFSI (2012>) | 177bhp | 222bhp | 184lb/ft | 251lb/ft |
2.0 TFSI (2016>) | 187bhp | 250bhp | 236lb/ft | 300lb/ft |
If you’re considering a remap make sure you use a reputable tuning specialist, ideally one who specialises in Audi engines. Some solid examples are Celtic Tuning, R-Tech and APR.
2. High-Performance Exhaust Systems
While the most noticeable perk of a high-performance exhaust may be it sound, the performance improvements can be equally significant. With the right upgrade, you can expect to see a slight gains ranging from 5 to 15 horsepower on average, alongside better throttle response and efficiency.
High-performance exhaust systems are engineered to maximise the expulsion of exhaust gasses from the engine, allowing it to breathe more efficiently and work less to expel them. Meanwhile, stock, or factory exhausts commonly prioritise cost and noise reduction over performance, leading to higher back pressure and a slight reduction in efficiency.
Fortunately there are a vast amount of options on the market, with big players like Milltek, MagnaFlow and Borla offering systems designed specifically for the A3. Key considerations when looking for your upgrade should be:
- Compatibility: Always check the system is designed for your model and engine type. You don’t want to be throwing money away on an exhaust that doesn’t fit. If you’re unsure, pick up the phone and ask the seller. It’s always best to be 100% before purchasing.
- Material: 304 Stainless Steel is one of the most commonly used materials by manufacturers due to its high chromium and nickel content which gives it excellent corrosion resistance and longevity. However, Titanium, with it’s lighter way can improve fuel efficiency and handling making it the go to choice for people looking for maximum performance. The downside, Titanium exhaust carry a premium for the pleasure.
- Sound: With an exhaust upgrade, people will likely hear you before they see you, so you’ll want to make sure you love the sound of your exhaust system. Milltek typically deliver a more refined and ‘sporty’ note, while Akrapovic ten toward the more aggresive sound. Search YouTube for the specific models you’re interested in to listen to demos of the exhausts in action
3. Air Intake Systems
Aftermarket Air Intake Systems (or induction kits) are among the most debated upgrades for car enthusiasts, especially when it comes to more modern vehicles like the A3, which already includes a highly efficient factory-installed air intake system. This system is optimised to meet the car’s performance needs under normal conditions. That said, why would you consider an air intake upgrade?
- Sound Enhancement: One of the most immediate benefits of installing a cold air intake is the enhancement of engine sounds. If you’re looking to hear a pronounced turbo whoosh or a deeper roar from your engine, a cold air intake can make a substantial difference. This mod allows for less restricted airflow compared to the stock intake, amplifying sound and adding a bit of excitement to your drive.
- Performance: On a stock Audi A3, adding a cold air intake alone might not result in a noticeable increase in horsepower—in some cases, it could even lead to a slight reduction in performance. However, the situation changes significantly when combined with other modifications. For instance, if you plan to have your car remapped, a cold air intake can be optimised to accommodate the increased airflow required for higher power outputs. This can result in improved engine efficiency, enhanced throttle response, and a noticeable increase in horsepower, especially in tuned vehicles.
Not all intakes are created equal. There are many options on the market, and it’s important to understand the differences in air intakes before spending your hard-earned money. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular A3 8V intake systems.
MST Performance Intake Hose & Turbo Inlet Elbow Audi A3 8V
MST Performance Intake in-housing
MST Performance Intake Hose & Turbo Inlet Elbow
The MST intake is one of the most popular on the market, specifically engineered for the EA888 Gen 3 engines (like the one in your A3 8V). We love that the kit includes a lid, letting you choose between leaving it open or closed. When closed, the lid prevents the warmer air from the engine bay from being drawn into the intake. When open, it just looks super aggressive inside your bay. Another key selling point is that it includes a 3″ turbo inlet pipe, which many kits don’t come with. The inlet pipe is where the airflow is most restricted, so upgrading this component should be a priority. You can pick up an MST Performance Intake for around £440.
IE MQB Gen 3 Cold Air Intake
Integrated Engineering (IE) are a big name in Audi upgrades, and this Gen 3 intake boasts up to a 67% increase in airflow, which is impressive. However, to hit this number, you also need to invest in the IE turbo inlet pipe, which they sell separately. Nonetheless, the IE intake is beautifully designed, including a 5″ air filter surface, 3.5″ piping, full-width heat shield and smooth transition couplers. You can pick one up for around £380, but if you’re looking for maximum performance, you’ll want the carbon fibre lid, which is around £300 and the turbo inlet pipe will set you back £120.
IE MQB Gen 3 Cold Air Intake
IE MQB Gen 3 Cold Air Intake with Carbon Fibre Lid
4. Coilovers and Lowering Springs
A suspension upgrade is often one of the most overlooked performance enhancements for any car, including an A3. We all know lowering your car closer to the ground and closing the gap between the tyre and wheel arch will make your car more aggressive, but the right setup will improve how your car handles.
There are two main ways to lower your car, coilovers and lowering springs. Let’s find out which is best for you.
Coilovers
If budget isn’t an issue, coilovers are undoubtedly the best option for lowering your car. They offer ultimate control over your vehicle’s handling and provide the flexibility to adjust the ride height to suit a daily drive or a track day.
One key advantage of coilovers is their design: they combine the spring and shock absorber into a single integrated unit. This simplifies the installation process and improves the overall performance and reliability of your suspension setup.
Coilovers allow you to adjust the height and firmness independently at each wheel—up to 65mm or more—allowing for precise customisation of your car’s dynamics. This level of adjustability ensures that you can fine-tune your vehicle to perfectly suit various driving conditions.
Installing coilovers can transform your Audi A3’s performance by enhancing its cornering capabilities, reducing body roll in turns, and overall making it more enjoyable to drive. Renowned manufacturers like KW, Bilstein, and H&R design coilovers specifically designed for the A3, ensuring perfect fitment and long-lasting durability.
The cost of coilovers ranges from £1000 to upwards of £4500 depending on the brand, materials and technology used.
Lowering Springs
If you’re not ready to jump into the deep end with coilovers, lowering springs are a simpler, more budget-friendly choice. They lower your car and make it stiffer, which means less leaning in turns.
Lowering springs won’t give you as many options to tweak how your car drives as coilovers do, but they still make a big difference. They’re easier to put in and cost less, making them a popular choice for those new to modifying their cars.
Prices for lowering springs typically range from £150 to £350. We strongly recommend choosing products from reputable brands; you get what you pay for! Eibach offers a Sportline lowering spring kit for the A3 to lower the front 45mm and rear 35-40mm. They also offer a more cost-effective Pro-Kit, which lowers your ride by 30mm front and rear.
Eibach Sportline Lowering Spring for Audi A3 8V available at Demon Tweeks
Lowers Front 45mm and Rear 35-40mm
Don’t forget!
Whether you choose coilovers or springs, lowering your car will change its alignment and potentially affect tyre wear and handling. We recommend getting your car checked and realigned after you make any changes to your suspension.
5. Chrome Delete
If you love the chrome trim on your car, you can skip this part. If you don’t, read on!
A chrome-delete is a relatively inexpensive mod that can significantly change your car’s appearance. For us, a high-quality all-black vinyl trim works beautifully with the grill and details around the A3’s front headlights, giving the car a much more aggressive look, similar to the Audi A3 Black Edition.
Undertaking a chrome-delete project is relatively straightforward and can often be done right at home. However, for those aiming for the perfect finish, it’s wise to consult with a professional.
3M 2080 Vinyl Wrap/Vehicle Wrap Gloss Black Dechrome Tape 30mm x 10 Meters
3M 2080 Gloss Black Metallic Car Wrap 1ft x 5ft
A DIY chrome-delete is the cost-effective solution. The essential material you’ll need is a quality vinyl. Amazon has a huge stock of 3M vinyl available in a variety of finishes. We really like the gloss black metallic, which has a subtle speckle under the right light conditions. Other options include satin, gloss and matt.
We strongly recommend using both sheets and strips for a chrome-delete project. The sheets are particularly helpful for covering larger, complex areas like the grill and the tight corners around your window trim, making them easier to handle, while strips are ideal for the straight lines along the windows.
In terms of materials, a 1ft x 5ft roll typically costs about £35, while a 20mm x 10 meter roll of strips is priced around £25. Additionally, you’ll need a set of tucking tools. Employing a heat gun can significantly simplify the application process, making the vinyl more pliable and easier to work with.
6. Wheels (Alloys)
We are wrapping up this list with the most popular mod for any car, including your A3. We think some of the stock alloy options like the twin spoke 18″s are gorgeous, but there are some fantastic options on the market. If you’re looking for the OEM look, the RS3/S3 Twin Spoke 19″ Grey and Diamond rims are our favourite. Bare in mind, the upgrade to 19″s can make the ride a little harsh, especially is you own an S Line. That said, we think they’re worth the bumps.
Audi A3 Sportback 8V Twin Spoke 18 OEM
Audi S3 8V 5 Twin Spoke 19″ OEM
Outside of factory there are some more excellent options, the BBS CH-R’s are some of the most popular on the market due to their unique Y spoke alloy and are available in a variety of colour options. Known for their strength and light weight characteristics, they perform as good as they look.
Like BBS, OZ are one of the most recognised wheel brands around the world, and an official supplier to Audi Sport. The Superturismo LM are a unique technical multi-spoke wheel inspired by racing wheels used on Audis during endurance races.
If budget isn’t an issue, Vossen have some of the most stunning alloys on the market. The VFS1 has a strong and light aluminium thin forged-like rim barrel, making them extremely light and durable.
Regardless of what you go for, do you research first. Fitment is everything, and there is nothing worse than finding out your beloved new alloys don’t fit your A3. If in doubt head over to willtheyfit.com – it literally does what the name suggests.
Looking for Alloys for Your a3/S3/Rs3?
We’ve got you covered. Check out our full gallery showcasing the best Alloys for your Audi A3/S3/RS3!