Audi A3 Sportback (2004 - 2013) 1.8 TFSI Sport (08) 5d S Tronic (2008/58) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
I think the car is stylish, modern and classy. I think it will age quite well.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Everybody thinks it's very well made - not a creak, not a rattle, nothing.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes, because I like the solid quality feel in the car. Everything else feels a bit lightweight and tinny compared the Audi.
What are you likely to buy next?
Probably antoher A3. They are expensive (very) for what is basically a small hatchback, but I think its worth the extra.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchise
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
January 2008
Did you get a good deal and why?
OK deal, managed to get 7% off the list price.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Quality or interior, s-tronic gearbox.
What was the dealer like?
Massive showroom with lots of models on display. The dealership was quite happy for me to test drive as many models as I wanted (I tried 3 in total).
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Smooth, comfortable and relaxing. Sporty yet supple suspension. There's little road or wind noise. The steering is light, but it stiffens up the faster you go. You loose a bit of feel to the steering but it makes it very easy around town. I’m happy with the compromise. The 1.8 engine is quiet, and pulls strongly from low revs. I considered the 2.0 TFSI engine but decided that it wasn’t worth the extra outlay for little performance gain; add to that higher tax, mpg and insurance. The 1.8 is still quick and completes the 0-60 sprint in less than 8 seconds. It’s in a very low tax band for the performance it provides. S-tronic gearbox is a must (7 speed box). Driving around town is easy, and you’ve got the paddles on the steering wheel if you fancy some fun.
What's it like to park?
Quite a good turning circle. Rear visibility could better, so I would suggest getting rear parking sensors.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
No.
What's most practical about your car?
The doors on the A3 open out very wide.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
BOSE sound system is superb. S-tronic gearbox (automatic) is a joy to use.
