Audi’s 2009 facelifted A3 will go on sale in the U.S. later this month, with prices starting at $27,745 for the A3 FrontTrak 2.0L TFSI model and going up to $37,800 for the A3 Quattro 3.2L V6. In addition to the revised styling and minor engine upgrades, the entry-level 2.0L TFSI is now available with quattro AWD and a 'S tronic' double clutch transmission. American buyers can also opt for Audi’s magnetic ride suspension control for the 2009 model year, but once again miss out on the three-door Sportback model offered overseas.

Standard features include hill-start assist on manual models, Sirius satellite radio, leather seats and steering wheel, and xenon headlamps (for the V6 models). The 2.0L TFSI engine is rated at 200hp (147kW) and 207lb-ft (280Nm) of torque, while the 3.2L engine is rated at 250hp (186kW) and 236lb-ft (320Nm) of torque. Combined with the S tronic gearbox, the torquey V6 can move the A3 from 0-60mph in 5.9 seconds while achieving mileage figures of 18mpg (13L/100km) in the city and 25mpg (9.4L/100km) on the highway.

The A3 has been a stunning seller for Audi since the launch of the first generation model back in 1996, with over 1.9 million units built since then, and the latest facelifted version is likely to continue that success thanks to a raft of new technologies not normally found in this segment.

New visual details include a re-sculpted front bumper and hood, a large single-frame radiator grille, revised headlights with LED daytime running lights, side mirrors with integrated turn signals and new door handles.

In Europe, Audi has brought the A3 and A3 Sportback onto the market with eight different engines – five petrol and three diesel versions. The lineup includes a 102hp (75kW) 1.6L petrol unit, 125hp (92kW) 1.4L TFSI, 160hp (118kW) 1.8L TFSI, 200hp (147kW) 2.0L TFSI and a range topping 3.2L V6 with 250hp (184kW) on tap. The diesel range includes a 1.9L TDI with 105hp (77kW) and two 2.0L TDI units with either 140hp (103kW) or 170hp (125kW). The 1.6L petrol is capable of running on ethanol, while the most efficient motor – the 1.9 TDI in an ‘e’ economy model – consumes just 4.5L of diesel per 100km (52mpg). Prices in Europe start at €20,350.

2009 Audi A3 and S3 video