Audi A3 Car Reviews

As with other Audi models, the suspension settings and larger wheels of the S-Line models can make the ride a little too firm. The handling is not the most exciting, but it is competent with little body roll and a good level of grip. In terms of road and wind noise, there is little to worry about, with only minimal noise once you hit the motorway.

The introduction of sportback models makes the A3 an even more practical car. The extra doors and additional space in the rear, due in part to a redesign of the front seatbacks, make it a reasonably sized family car, which is easier to get in and out of than the 3-door hatchback. There is also addition boot space over the 3-door model.

The interior is well thought out and expertly put together, demonstrating the excellent build quality that Audi have become renowned for. The front seats offer a number of adjustments, whilst remaining supportive, so finding a comfortable driving position is easy. However, equipment on base models is lacking, so the list of extras desired by the buyer may prove to be expensive.

Background

The A3 has been produced since 1996 on the Volkswagen Group A platform, which it shares with the VW golf, VW Touran, Seat Leon and a number of other cars. The first generation ran until 2003 with the introduction of a 5-door model in 1999, which was followed by a subsequent facelift in 2000 changing the front and rear light configuration and other minor cosmetic alterations.

The second generation debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in 2003, again with initially only releasing the 3-door variant. In 2004 the sportback 5-door model was introduced with a new grille, which was fitted to the hatchback later in the same year. The latest update date was in 2008 which again made changes to the front grille and front and rear headlight configurations.

The second generation S3 and RS3 were introduced in 2006 and 2011 respectively. They represent sportier versions of the base A3, with the RS3 aimed at being a real performance car, quoting 0-62mph acceleration in 4.6 seconds.

The current third-generation model was launched in 2012, and is based upon the VW Group's MQB architecture.

Summary

The A3 is a premium vehicle, aimed at people who want to travel in a more luxurious environment, but don’t necessarily require or want the large vehicle usually associated with such an experience. The wide range of models offered means the consumer can choose between a fuel efficient diesel which is able to eat up motorway miles, or a sporty RS3, capable of competing with the best of them on the track.