Version review

Audi A3 35 TDI Edition 1 5dr S Tronic Review

Why the overall winner won

Best small SUV

Best family car

Best small electric car

Best luxury car

Car of the Year Awards 2023 >>

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The 35 TDI diesel engine is noticeably stronger than the 30 TDI (0-62mph takes 8.3sec), proving particularly relaxing on motorway runs and it's very refined for a diesel. It's also very economical and RDE2 emissions compliant, so company car drivers won't have to pay a 4% surcharge. 

35 TDI

Hatchback

Audi is a brand that sets the standard for interior quality, and this, combined with its vast and ever-growing model line-up, has helped it become one of the ‘big three’ German prestige car makers, along with BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The A3 hatchback, A4 executive saloon and Q7 SUV have all won their classes at the What Car? Car of the Year Awards in recent years, while the TT coupé is the most decorated car in the history of the ceremony.

At least some of Audi's success over the past 30 years can be attributed to the growth in sales of vehicles with four-wheel drive; the company arguably led the way in bringing 4x4 technology into the mainstream, with its Quattro coupé in the early 1980s.

Today, most Audis are available with at least the option of four-wheel drive, while the list of SUVs from the brand includes the Q2, Q3, Q5 and Q7.

AUDI

A limited-edition trim that includes 19in alloy wheels, black styling details inside and out, electric front seat operation with lumbar adjustment, heated front seats, Alcantara/ leather trim, a bigger 12.3in digital instrument screen and Matrix LED headlights. 

Edition 1

35 TDI Edition 1 5dr S Tronic

35-tdi-edition-1-5dr-s-tronic

Electrically adj heated/folding + automatically dimming exterior mirrors with memory + automatic kerb side function for passenger side exterior mirror

Electrically adjustable front seats with memory function for driver's side

4 way electrically adjustable lumbar support for driver and front passenger

Integrated LED indicators in door mirrors

Driver and front passenger airbag with passenger airbag deactivation

Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC) including ABS, ASR and EDL

Audi matrix LED headlights, LED rear lights, dynamic front and rear indicators and headlight cleaning system

Rear side airbags with head airbag system

LED interior lighting pack - A3 Sportback

Extended ambient lighting pack - A3 Sportback

Aluminium interior elements pack - A3 Sportback

Dinamica microfibre/mono.pur 550 artificial leather pack - A3 Sportback

Audi A3

The A3 isn't as well finished inside or as polished overall as the previous model, but it's still comfortable, enjoyable to drive, has space for the family and a range of punchy petrol, diesel and hybrid engines. We recommend the 40 TFSIe for its electric range, low company car tax and performance. It’s one of the best plug-ins out there and a fine car in its own right.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plenty of practical space </li> <li>Low running costs </li> <li>A comfortable ride </li> <li>A healthy equipment list </li> <li>Quality materials and thoughtful touches inside </li> <li>Rock-solid reliability</li></ul>

Family cars arguably have the toughest brief of all: they have to be good at pretty much everything. They’re used as the daily drive, on the school run or work commute (often both), and have to be able to cope with a family’s clutter on weekends and holidays.

The Skoda Scala is a relative newcomer, but it's&nbsp;already carved out a name for itself in this segment.&nbsp;If you're looking for a moderately priced car that combines a supple ride, neat handling, a spacious interior and a capacious boot&nbsp;it's well worth a look.&nbsp;Alternatively, if you're looking for entertaining handling then the&nbsp;BMW 1 Series may well be for you. It's great to drive, rides well&nbsp;and also comes with a top-notch interior, featuring one of our very favourite infotainment systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Toyota Corolla&nbsp;is another great choice. This latest version of one of the world's best-selling cars of all time can be had with a choice of two different petrol-electric hybrid engines, both of which should mean&nbsp;potentially lower fuel bills. It's comfortable, well equipped and should be very reliable, too.&nbsp;

Car of the Year Awards 2023 >>

Audi A3 35 TDI Edition 1 5dr S Tronic Review

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57.6

380

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128

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