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Audi A3 Saloon S3 TFSI Quattro Vorsprung 4dr S Tronic Review

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S3 TFSI Quattro Vorsprung

Saloon

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

S3 Vorsprung

S3 TFSI Quattro Vorsprung 4dr S Tronic

s3-tfsi-quattro-vorsprung-4dr-s-tronic

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

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

Integrated LED indicators in door mirrors

4 way electrically adjustable lumbar support for driver and front passenger

Driver and front passenger airbag with passenger airbag deactivation

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

Rear side airbags with head airbag system

Extended ambient lighting pack - A3/S3 Saloon

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

Audi A3 Saloon

The Audi A3 Saloon is tidy in the bends, comfortable and well equipped, making it a very competitive option against its closest rivals, the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe and Mercedes A-Class Saloon. However, the A4 is worth the extra if you can afford it, because it’s quieter and has a classier and more practical interior. Likewise, the BMW 3 Series betters the A3 in those areas, and it's also more enjoyable to drive.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Effortless long-distance capability</li> <li>Strong standard specification</li> <li>Low running costs</li> <li>Comfortable driving position</li> <li>Comprehensive yet easy-to-use infotainment system</li></ul>

Executive cars are often the choice of company car drivers, so factors such as CO2 emissions (which govern your monthly tax bill) are just as important as cruising refinement for those long motorway journeys, a plush cabin and (whisper it) the image of the badge on the bonnet.

The good news is that there are options for all budgets and tastes. If rear space is crucial and you’re willing to put up with a less-than-premium badge, the Skoda Superb is tough to beat, while if you want a premium badge on the bonnet then the BMW 3 Series is consistently one of our favourites in this class.

And don't think you're limited to just petrol or diesel-powered choices in this class,&nbsp;because at the top end the Tesla Model 3 is well worth considering for its long range and engaging driving style.

Car of the Year Awards 2023 >>

Audi A3 Saloon S3 TFSI Quattro Vorsprung 4dr S Tronic Review

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35.3

340

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181

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