Audi plans to reduce the screen-heavy interior approach in the next-generation A3 and include more physical controls and buttons. Audi executive Rouven Mohr announced that traditional buttons would be brought back so drivers can adjust the climate control and audio settings without taking their eyes off the road.
The A3 is expected to carry the design language and high material standards showcased in the Concept C and Nuvolari. The model will continue to share the MQB platform with the Volkswagen Golf and Skoda Octavia, while petrol and hybrid engine options are expected to be retained.
Why it matters
This choice is directly significant in terms of ease of use and reducing distraction, as it lessens the need for drivers to navigate menus to adjust the climate control and audio settings. For Audi, the decision represents a partial retreat from the screen-heavy cabin approach, raising the question of how the brand will balance its new design language with the requirements of everyday use. The A3’s continued use of the same underlying architecture as the Golf and Octavia shows that the model’s differentiation will be defined primarily through its cabin design, material quality and control layout. Retaining petrol and hybrid options indicates that the change is focused more on the user interface than on the powertrain systems.