2012 Audi A3 S Line Sportback 1.2 TFSi from Netherlands

Summary:

The A3 is an awesome car

Faults:

Condensation in rear light, replaced by dealer.

General Comments:

Moving from the UK to the Netherlands, we wanted a car that would be economical and reliable, but also practical in size for our labrador.

The A3 5 door Sportback is a good sized hatchback; I would say it's in between a Golf and A4 wagon. The ride is fairly comfortable on highways, with little wind noise, and the road holding is phenomenal!

I was most concerned about the engine size, but the 1.2 turbo mated to the 7 speed DSG box is very capable and smooth; rated at 105 BHP it feels a lot quicker and will throw you back in your seat from a standing start. Though it suffers a little bit on mid-range, but once up there it cruises nicely on the open road.

Steering, brakes, and suspension all feel tight, and the S Line edition has some nice features; xenons, daytime LEDs, 17" alloys and navigation etc.

This is our first German car, and I have to say, I am impressed by the build quality and styling. Economy is amazing with start/stop, and it returns 50+ MPG whilst cruising.

Test drove a Lexus CT200 hybrid; nice looking with lots of gadgets, but was disappointed at the lack of room inside, especially the non existent boot! Glad I looked at the A3 as it's quicker, drives smoother and gets better MPG.

Overall, very pleased with this car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th June, 2013

25th Nov 2013, 07:47

Update: Six months later and no problems with the Audi, although it did get broken into and the navigation unit stolen... a common occurrence with A3's and Golf models of this year according to the dealer! My question is, why oh why do these manufacturers make it so easy for thieves?? A simple removable face panel would make the unit less attractive to these rats! And the A3 doesn't even have an interior motion sensor for the alarm; at least the Golf does... An oversight on my part when buying the car. Anyway, the solution is a navi-lock, which is a metal plate covering the whole unit.

Another annoyance is the lack of rain gutters, making water marks on the seat bolsters during downpours.

The car is still great aside from these faults, and the newer 2013 model has a more integrated navi system, so I will be checking that out next year!