New Audi A3 TDI Mini-Review

[Sven]

I had the pleasure of driving one of these, courtesy of my dealer. So here's some impressions...

Most of you know I'm rather critical, and somewhat spoiled by the S8 and a variety of other rather nice cars. Last time they bestowed an A6 2.4 Avant FWD upon me, and I wasn't really impressed by that. I'm also no huge diesel fan, so take that into account, and the fact I drove up there in an S8.

So I get into 'my' basic A3 1.9 TDI, and first thing that strikes me is how complete this car is. It's all there; separate driver/passenger heater/clima with auto recirc. (air quality sensor), electric 'one touch up/down' windows, electric mirrors, auto dimming interior lights, a basic but nice CD/stereo, etc. Seats are manually adjusted, but rather good for std. seats, better than average, although for someone of my posture (1.90m) the angle of the seat base could do with a little more 'tilt'. The support isn't bad at all, although they're no Recaro's of course (to which I'm used). However, compared to the seats in a Merc. C class, the A3 seats may even be better... The dash cluster looks good, esp. at night when lit. The interior is pleasant, design is good, functional without any frills. The material of the top part of the dash could do with a better 'feel' tho, I would like to see a bit softer (richer) finish. I'm not sure whether this is any different in higher spec models. A minor criticism I could live with.

The engine is unmistakably a diesel, sound wise, but in no way annoying. As I drive off I'm surprised how well spirited this car is, it's certainly quick! At traffic lights I place it in the fast lane with confidence, and it doesn't disappoint. I'm well ahead of traffic without much effort. The engine is supple and torquey, and easily picks up from low revs.

Another - very pleasant - surprise is the suspension. The car feels well planted and very 'responsive', without becoming the least bit harsh or uncomfortable. Bad surfaces, bumpy roads, quick corners, speed bumps, it handles all of that perfectly. I'm impressed...

FWD is another thing I don't care for much. So I try a few standing starts with the wheels turned a bit, expecting the characteristic FWD pull on the steering wheel. But no, nothing like that. It accelerates without any 'jerking' on the steering wheel. Cornering is very neutral, even when you go quick (I drove quick - as usual - not excessively fast, but I have no reason to suspect any problems if one does). I honestly wondered if it hadn't a haldex by any chance... (It didn't).

One point of (minor) criticism is the (IMO) oddly placed indicator stalk, which sits a bit higher than usual. It is located at '10 to 2' position, so if you put your hands where you were taught by your driving instructor it is in the right place I guess. I don't however, and on the S8 it sits a bit lower. So I found myself looking for it a few times.

Resuming; a very pleasant car, esp. considering this is the basic 1.9 TDI (105bhp). Makes me wonder how good the 140bhp 2.0 (DSG ) will be...

And, I'm really curious about the forthcoming S3... That might well turn out to be a very desirable car.