Audi A3; A Premium Hatchback
The new Audi A3 is not only a strong rival of BMW 1 series in premium hatch backs but also it is a competitor of VW Golf. It is stylish and the cabin is of premium quality. The drive might not be that sharp but the ride is very relaxed. The engine options are 1.6 litre and 2.0 litre TDIs and 1.4 litre and 1.8 litre petrols with clever cylinder deactivation technology.
It is typical of Audi that its design remains the same for long, the front end is almost the same whether it is an A3 or A1, A4 or A6, but this hasnEUR(TM)t stopped Audi from being popular. Coming to A3, it is a very neatly detailed and stylish looking car that will certainly turn some heads while on the street. The sleek lights also add to the style. The interior is also well designed and gives a premium feel. The materials used are of high quality. The standard features include a 5.8 inch sliding screen and AudiEUR(TM)s MMI controller. The A3 has the VolkswagenEUR(TM)s MQB platform. The standard suspension of the A3 is comfortable but with uninvolving handling. The plus point is improved ride on bumps. There is a choice of standard or sportier suspension on Sports and S Line models for the same price.
The standard safety features of A3 include side, front, curtain and driver knee bags, electronic stability control and ABS. The optional features make a long list including radar controlled cruise control, lane assistance, traffic sign detection, auto parking and many other high tech gadgets. The new Audi has the same length of its predecessor but its wider and the wheel base has been stretched. This has resulted in a roomy interior and extra elbow room for the front passenger and driver. The conventional lever hand brake has been replaced with an electric one.The boot space is 365 litre i.e 15 litre more than the car it has replaced.
The costs of running an Audi 3 are not that higher as compared to others in the class. The 2.0 litre diesel returns an impressive 66mpg with 106gkm of carbon emissions. The 1.6 litre is under the 100g/km threshold of carbon emissions therefore exempted from the UK road tax. The 1.8 litre petrol gives 50mpg with 130g/km of carbon emissions. The new 1.4 litre petrol engine is the best option giving the economy of a diesel with its cylinder deactivation technology. The Audi also retains its price value therefore a good value for private buyers. Overall Audi A3 scores the victory over its rivals in the same class such as BMW 1 series.
