Audi A3 35 TFSI Technik 5dr Review
Category: Family car
Section: Version review
The model
Read full reviewThere's no doubt the latest Audi A3 isn't as well finished inside or as polished overall as the previous model, but it still rates well against the premium competition of the day, which includes the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes A-Class. The A3 is 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.
The trim
See full equipmentOur favourite trim if you have an eye on value for money. It comes with rear parking sensors, LED headlights, digital instruments, a 10.1in infotainment screen, in-built sat-nav, Bluetooth, a DAB radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers, two USB-C ports, a front armrest, 16in alloy wheels, power-folding door mirrors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, auto lights and wipers and 60/40 split-folding rear seats.
The engine
See full engine specsThe 1.5-litre 148bhp 35 TFSI petrol is our pick of the regular petrol- and diesel-only engines. It’s cheaper than the 35 TDI and 40 TFSIe but still gutsy throughout the rev range, pulling handsomely from around 2000rpm and spinning freely all the way to the engine's red line. In our testing it hit the magic 0-60mph time in a creditable 8.0sec (with a manual gearbox), and feels livelier than a BMW 118i. It also managed a test average of 42.5mpg.
