What is Audi Black Edition?
Already impressive Audi models get even more exciting upgrades with the Black Edition trim
The Audi ‘Black Edition’ option is a flashy trim you can choose to boost the sporty look of an Audi model.
The manufacturer offers a range of trim options, including the SE, S line, and S models, but the Black Edition is a more recent offering that goes for a really aggressive look.
You can choose the Black Edition trim on models such as the Audi A3, A4, A5, Q2, Q7 and TT, where it builds on S line style features with moodier styling.
Differences in the exterior
The Black Edition trim is considered a step up from the S line option.
With the S line, you can expect larger alloys, a lowered suspension and squinting LED headlights that look fierce against a sporty bumper.
Choose the Black Edition model and the features of the S line get taken to the dark side.
In models like the Audi A3, you’ll get matte titanium finish alloys and a black finish on the air intakes, grille, and mirrors.
In the Audi Q3, you can expect similar dark alloys with black diamond cut finish, plus a black grille, window trims, black air intakes like on the A3, and blacked-out Audi rings.
Another popular model available in the Black Edition trim is the Audi A4. This model gets touches like the black styling pack with gloss black fog light surrounds and a matte black number plate holder.
For the most part, assume that choosing a Black Edition Audi model will mean darker touches and plenty of pops of black.
The styling is similar across all models in the Black Edition trim too, so you can expect the same black details through the lineup.
It really does give the car a sleek look that will distinguish it from other models in the same range, so it’s ideal if you love Audi models but don’t want to blend in.
Differences in the interior
The Black Edition trim makes for some flashy interior updates as well, so the inside will have the same sporty and aggressive feel.
Black Edition Audis also get privacy glass for the rear of the car and a piano-black trim with a general lack of the usual chrome touches.
There are tech updates too, like a 10-speaker Audi Sound System in the A3 models and a Bang & Olufsen audio package in the S3, A4 and A5.
The S6 and S7 models get a BOSE sound system and a flat-bottomed steering wheel, while the Q3 also gets the BOSE setup.
Black Edition models get some impressive tech features, including the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus driver display and the MMI Plus infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
There are also some advanced driver aids on offer – think parking sensors, rearview camera and parking assistance tech.
What do the reviews say?
The Audi Black Edition trim is praised by car enthusiasts that prefer a more menacing look.
The standard chrome detailing that usually comes with Audi models is sleek, but the black touches appeal to those with sporty tastes that will enjoy the added aggression.
It’s not uncommon for some motorists to update their cars with black detailing themselves, so features like the piano-black trim and darkened logos tick boxes.
Some models – like the Audi A4 – get a stiffer suspension alongside the massive alloys that come with the Black Edition.
Some motorists haven’t been a fan, but there’s also the option for a softer setup that Audi offers for no extra cost.
The Black Edition models are more expensive than the Sport and S line trims, so some reviews state that the S line is more than enough if you aren’t too fussed about the black styling.
You’ll need to decide if the darker tones and touches like privacy glass and lack of chrome are worth the extra money.
After all, the engines are still largely the same as the S line, as well as many of the features.