Audi 1996 A3 Hatchback

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  • Economy

    Value

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Pricey but holds its value well.

    Costs

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Really expensive to run especially if you have a heavy right foot.

  • On the road

    Driving

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Decent handling but could be more involving. Steering lacks feel.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Power delivery is smooth and effortless but is lacking in the lower rev range. Still not bad considering you can blitz most 3 series models and have the ability to give a Boxter a run for its money.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Lets put it this way, I no longer have faith in German reliability. New airbag control unit, master cylinder, alternator, window lifter and now Audi tell me I need a new clutch at 67k - I have only had the car for a year and a bit!

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Beautifully crafted. Flared arches give it that wide, squatting stance. Looks better than any other hot hatch.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Excellent - recaros provide a good driving position

  • Security and Service

    Service

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Polite service but they take their time getting back to you. Really expensive and pretty sure like most dealers they prefer to just replace, rather than diagnose and fix, which is all very well unless you have bought second hand and are out of warranty.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Replaced the alternator and master cylinder.

    Other

    Passenger side window lifter and airbag control unit - isn't bigger than the palm of your hand but costs nearly £400!

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    No