Introduction:
China’s automotive industry has been making significant strides in recent years, and it’s not just about manufacturing for the domestic market. Luxury automakers like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW have set up production facilities in China, creating a new breed of entry-level luxury sedans tailored to local preferences and global standards. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll introduce you to the best of the best in this category.
Our journey begins with the Audi A3 Sportback 35TFSI, a model that has evolved since its 2021 redesign, offering impressive performance and tech-savvy features. Then, we’ll dive into the customized Audi A3L Limousine 35TFSI, designed specifically for the Chinese market with enhanced comfort and space.
Next, we’ll explore the 2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class A180L Sedan, a refined luxury sedan that adds extra utility to the A-Class lineup. We’ll also introduce you to the high-power variant, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class A200L Dynamic Model, which caters to the demands of both the United States and China.
Last but not least, we’ll delve into the world of BMW, starting with the efficient and sporty 2022 BMW 120i M Sport and its impressive value proposition. Then, we’ll unleash the power with the 2023 BMW 125i M Sport Phantom Edition, a pocket rocket that offers both performance and luxury.
Audi A3 2024 Sportback 35TFSI: A New Standard in Entry-Level Luxury
Today, we spotlight an exceptional entry in the entry-level luxury sedan category: the Audi A3 2024 Sportback 35TFSI, a model that has undergone a significant transformation since its 2021 redesign. This Audi A3 stands out with its EA 211 1.4T engine, delivering a robust 150 horsepower and 250 Nm of peak torque. Anticipation is high for its upcoming engine upgrade to a 1.5T unit next year, expected to boost power by an additional ten horsepower while maintaining the same torque.
Dimensions and Design: Compact Elegance Meets Functionality
The A3’s hatchback design boasts dimensions of 4343 mm in length, 1815 mm in width, and 1458 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2630 mm, marking it as a true global model. Its efficient use of space is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, standard 17-inch alloy wheels, and comprehensive safety features including six airbags and a tire pressure warning system.
Advanced Safety and Comfort Features
Audi doesn’t skimp on safety and comfort, equipping the A3 with active brake safety systems, fatigue driving alerts, collision warnings, and roadside assistance calls. Drivers will appreciate features like engine start-stop, automatic parking, and hill assist. Although it lacks a reverse camera, the car compensates with rear parking radar and cruise control. A rare find in this segment is the electric trunk feature, further enhancing its uniqueness.
Tech-Savvy and User-Friendly Interiors
Inside, the Audi A3 greets you with a 10.1-inch central control screen compatible with CarPlay, supplemented by a 10.25-inch LCD instrument panel for the driver. Charging options are ample with three front and two rear USB and Type-C ports. The fabric seats with manual adjustment include the exceptional feature of leg support adjustment, a rarity in this price range.
Sound System and Climate Control
The vehicle is outfitted with an eight-speaker sound system, rear air vents, zone control functions, and a PM2.5 filter in its automatic air conditioning system, ensuring comfort and clean air.
Performance and Value Comparison
Many argue that choosing a Golf over the A3 offers better value, as both emerge from the same production line with many similarities, including dimensions and wheelbase. However, the A3’s independent suspension system, refined design, and premium interior set it apart. The A3, with its new 1.5T engine, is priced at $30,919 on the Chris Cross Auto platform, with discounts exceeding $6,000, making it a luxurious yet affordable choice at under $25,500.
The 2024 Audi A3L Limousine 35TFSI: Tailored Elegance in China Market
Following the introduction of the Audi A3 Sportback, we now turn our attention to another variant of the Audi A3 – the 2024 Audi A3L Limousine 35TFSI. This model stands out as Audi’s response to balancing global design with localized preferences, especially for the Chinese market.
Customized Dimensions for Enhanced Comfort
The A3L Limousine is a stretched version, tailored specifically for China, featuring a length of 4548 mm, a width of approximately 814 mm, and a height of about 429 mm. Its wheelbase extends to 2680 mm, which is 50 mm longer than the global standard of 2630 mm. This additional space significantly enhances legroom for passengers, making it a noteworthy upgrade in terms of comfort.
Powertrain and Configuration
The A3L Limousine shares the same EA 211 1.4T engine and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission as the A3 Sportback, ensuring consistent performance across the A3 lineup. We won’t delve into further details on this aspect as it mirrors the Sportback’s specifications.
Advanced Features and Optional Upgrades
While the base configuration of the A3L Limousine resembles that of the Sportback, it boasts additional, more advanced features, including optional assistive driving functions available in higher-end models. For specific pricing details, we encourage consultation with our sales team.
Pricing and Market Comparison
A notable aspect of the A3L Limousine is its competitive pricing. On the Crisscross Auto platform, the FOB starting price is set at $31,909 with discounts exceeding $5,500. When compared to its MSRP in the United States, which stands at $36,495, the price difference is nearly $10,000. This significant price gap offers substantial savings and benefits for customers in the United States and Canada.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class A180L Sedan: Refined Luxury in a Compact Package
We now explore the 2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class A180L Sedan. While the A-Class is globally recognized for its hatchback form, this sedan variant adds an extra dimension of utility with its additional trunk, blending convenient storage with a cohesive design aesthetic.
Spacious Dimensions and Engine Performance
The A180L Sedan measures 4630 mm in length, 1769 mm in width, and 1459 mm in height, and its wheelbase of 2789 mm makes it the largest among the models we’ve discussed. It features a Mercedes 1.3T turbocharged engine (model 282814), delivering 136 horsepower and 230 Nm of peak torque. For more power, the high-performance tuning achieves 163 horsepower and 270 Nm, aligning it with the A200 model, which we will also discuss.
Enhanced Safety and Diverse Driving Modes
Equipped with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, the A180L Sedan also boasts 17-inch alloy wheels, eight airbags, a tire pressure display, and passive pedestrian protection. Its safety suite includes lane departure warning, active brake assist, collision warning, and roadside assistance calls. The sedan offers various driving modes, such as Sport, Economy, and Standard, complemented by engine start-stop, automatic parking, and hill assist functionalities. Notably, it includes a reverse camera but lacks reverse radar.
Advanced Driving Assistance and Interior Features
This sedan stands out with its comprehensive L2 level assistive driving features, including full-speed adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. It offers keyless start, a sporty exterior package, LED headlights, a segmented sunroof, and a 10.25-inch central control screen compatible with CarPlay.
Comfort and Design Considerations
The A180L Sedan’s electronic shift design frees up space in the front row center, and it’s equipped with two Type-C ports in the front and one in the rear. The seats are imitation leather with manual adjustment, and the vehicle features automatic air conditioning with rear vents, though it lacks zone control.
Competitive Pricing for Luxury Enthusiasts
Ideal for those who value Mercedes-Benz’s design and craftsmanship, the A180L Sedan is priced attractively on the Crisscross Auto platform. Its FOB starting price is $37,983, with significant discounts bringing the final FOB price to just under $29,000.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz A-Class A200L: High-Power Variant for Discerning Drivers
Next, we delve into the high-powered version of China Mercedes-Benz A-Class: the 2023 A200L Dynamic Model. This model caters to the specific demands of major markets, with a notable presence in two countries: the United States and China.
Engine Performance and Efficiency
The A200L shares its dimensions with the previously discussed A180L but distinguishes itself with its engine configuration. In China, it’s powered by a 1.3T engine, while the U.S. version boasts a more robust 2.0T engine. The 1.3T engine of the A200L is capable of delivering 163 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque, compared to the 2.0T engine’s 188 horsepower and 300 Nm of peak torque in the U.S. version. The real differentiator, however, is the 1.3T engine’s impressive fuel efficiency, averaging just 6.06 liters per 100 km in the WLTP cycle.
Pricing and Availability Comparison
Priced at $39,703 on the Crisscross Auto platform with discounts exceeding $9,500, the A200L offers a competitive edge in the market. In comparison, its starting price in the United States is $33,950. This price difference, over 12.4%, is complemented by the immediate availability of the vehicle in China, whereas delivery times in the U.S. and Canada can range from 2 to 4 months.
China BMW: The 2022 120i M Sport – A Budget-Friendly Luxury Option
In this segment, we introduce two models from the BMW 1 Series: the 2022 BMW 120i M Sport and the 2023 BMW 125i M Sport Phantom Edition. Let’s take a closer look at each.
The 2022 BMW 120i M Sport: Efficient and Sporty
The 120i M Sport is equipped with BMW’s B38A15C 1.5T three-cylinder turbocharged engine, producing 140 horsepower and 220 Nm of torque. This compact powerhouse, measuring 4462 mm in length, 1803 mm in width, and 1446 mm in height, with a 2670 mm wheelbase, is paired with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. Notably found in Mini models as well, this engine is remarkably fuel-efficient, averaging just 5.8 liters per 100 km in the WLTC cycle.
Impressive Performance and Features
Despite initial doubts about its power output, the 120i M Sport’s acceleration time of 9.4 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h is quite impressive for its class. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, six airbags with tire pressure display, BMW’s signature run-flat tires, rear parking radar, reverse camera, keyless start, and LED headlights. However, it lacks a sunroof and offers a 10.25-inch control display compatible with CarPlay, manual adjustment faux leather front seats, a six-speaker sound system, and surprisingly, manual air conditioning. Priced at $31,802 on the Crisscross Auto platform with discounts exceeding $9,000, this model presents an unbeatable value proposition, especially when compared to similarly equipped models from Volkswagen or Toyota.
The 2023 BMW 125i M Sport Phantom Edition: Unleash the Power
A Pocket Rocket
The sixth recommendation brings us to the 2023 BMW 125i M Sport Phantom Edition, a true pocket rocket. It’s powered by the classic BMW B48 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering an impressive 178 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque. With a zero to 100 km/h acceleration time of just 7.5 seconds and a fuel efficiency of 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers under WLTC conditions, this compact car is a force to be reckoned with.
Compact Dimensions
In terms of dimensions, it closely mirrors the 120i, with a length of 4,462 millimeters, a width of 1,803 millimeters, a height of approximately 448 millimeters, and a wheelbase of 2,670 millimeters. What sets it apart is the panoramic sunroof that adds a touch of luxury and the 18-inch alloy wheels. Additionally, the exterior mirrors are equipped with folding, memory, and heating functions.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
Inside, you’ll find convenience with two USB and two type-C charging ports both in the front and rear. The driver’s seat offers power adjustment with memory function. The car also features a six-color interior ambient lighting system. However, it’s worth noting that the air conditioning remains manual, and if you prefer automatic climate control, it can be added for an additional $800.
Remarkable Savings
Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate the significant savings you can enjoy with Crisscross auto. The FOB starting price for the 125i M Sport Phantom Edition is only $38,044, with a generous discount of over $9,000. In comparison, the BMW 125i with the same powertrain retails for a staggering $46,000 in the United States. That’s a remarkable price difference of 36.8%!
| Car Model | Size (LxWxH) | Wheelbase (mm) | FoB Price | Discount |
| Audi A3 Sportback 35TFSI | 4343x1815x1458 mm | 2630 mm | $30,919 | $6,000 |
| Audi A3L Limousine 35TFSI | 4548x1814x1429 mm | 2680 mm | $31,909 | $5,500 |
| Mercedes-Benz A180L Sedan | 4630x1769x1459 mm | 2789 mm | $37,983 | $9,000 |
| Mercedes-Benz A200L | 4630x1769x1459 mm | 2789 mm | $39,703 | $9,500 |
| BMW 120i M Sport | 4462x1803x1446 mm | 2670 mm | $31,802 | $9,000 |
| BMW 125i M Sport Phantom | 4462x1803x448 mm | 2670 mm | $38,044 | $9,000 |
Conclusion:
As our journey through the world of entry-level luxury sedans made in China comes to an end, one thing becomes clear: these sedans offer exceptional value, performance, and comfort. Whether you prefer the elegance of Audi, the refinement of Mercedes-Benz, or the sporty nature of BMW, there’s a sedan here to suit your tastes.
With competitive pricing and generous discounts, these sedans make luxury more accessible than ever. So, if you’re in the market for a stylish and affordable luxury sedan, consider one of these top picks. China’s automotive industry is on the rise, and these sedans exemplify the quality and innovation it has to offer. Get ready to hit the road in style with the best 6 entry-level luxury sedans of China-made excellence.