Many would think of the Audi A3 as a mere rebadge of the Volkwagen Golf, albeit done in a more upclass fashion. Now especially, we cannot argue otherwise, as both the Mk7 Golf and the A3 Sportback share the group's MQB platform.
Still, we reckon that the Golf and A3 are very different cars altogether - or at least our drives in both told us so.
The A3 1.4 TFSI is a very complete, potent package. And this 1.8 TFSI, in short, seems to be the temporal relief for those wanting more power in this capable hatchback - before the S3 (and RS3) set foot on our shores.Up close and Personal
Aestheticially, both variants of the A3 Sportback share similar features. There isn't any badge to tell them apart, let alone body kit or exterior decoration.
Still, we reckon that the Golf and A3 are very different cars altogether - or at least our drives in both told us so.
The A3 1.4 TFSI is a very complete, potent package. And this 1.8 TFSI, in short, seems to be the temporal relief for those wanting more power in this capable hatchback - before the S3 (and RS3) set foot on our shores.Up close and Personal
Aestheticially, both variants of the A3 Sportback share similar features. There isn't any badge to tell them apart, let alone body kit or exterior decoration.
Interior wise, the 'Ambiente' trimmed cabin of the 1.8 TFSI is more delightful. We like the expensive looking two-tone leather, as well as the clear strips with underlying metallic patterns on the dash. They help portray a modernistic feel, in line with the car's crisp, fresh look on the outside.
As a whole, the cabin feels well put together. What's worth mentioning is that the hatchback's cabin is generously spaced for five onboard, with adequate head and leg room at the rear for three adults.
As a whole, the cabin feels well put together. What's worth mentioning is that the hatchback's cabin is generously spaced for five onboard, with adequate head and leg room at the rear for three adults.
The Drive
The 1.8-litre TFSI produces 180bhp and 250Nm of torque - almost 60 more horses and 50Nm more twisting force than its 1.4-litre stablemate.
At 1,280kg, the 1.8 TFSI weighs 55kg more too. But considering that the closest rivals - the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class - weigh at least 1,385kg, the A3 is considered lightweight.
Despite the minor power hike and heavier body, the A3 1.8 can accelerate to 100km/h by a full two seconds quicker - clocking 7.3 seconds. On the road, the car pulls with more conviction, especially during the early to mid rev range where most of the boost are available.
The hatch feels very chuckable over corners, thanks to its taut setup, which turns sporty driving to rewarding ones.
The 1.8-litre TFSI produces 180bhp and 250Nm of torque - almost 60 more horses and 50Nm more twisting force than its 1.4-litre stablemate.
At 1,280kg, the 1.8 TFSI weighs 55kg more too. But considering that the closest rivals - the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class - weigh at least 1,385kg, the A3 is considered lightweight.
Despite the minor power hike and heavier body, the A3 1.8 can accelerate to 100km/h by a full two seconds quicker - clocking 7.3 seconds. On the road, the car pulls with more conviction, especially during the early to mid rev range where most of the boost are available.
The hatch feels very chuckable over corners, thanks to its taut setup, which turns sporty driving to rewarding ones.
Driven sensibly, the A3 1.8 will manage 10.5km/L - far from the 17km/L claimed by Audi. In comparison, the base 1.4-litre will do 14km/L, which makes it more practical and economical in the long run.
Conclusion
The new A3 may not be revolutionary with its exterior design, but it is a huge leap from its predecessor. The new car has better handling, and is more fun to drive too.
The challenge for the A3 1.8, then, depends whether it can supercede the less powerful 1.4 TFSI. As of 11th September, the more potent powerplant is $26,000 more than the base model.
The 1.8-litre variant may be good to have, but we reckon the 1.4 TFSI is just as capable in other areas, such as handling, yet at the same time achieving better fuel economy.
It really isn't hard for the smart buyer to tell the better of the two.
Conclusion
The new A3 may not be revolutionary with its exterior design, but it is a huge leap from its predecessor. The new car has better handling, and is more fun to drive too.
The challenge for the A3 1.8, then, depends whether it can supercede the less powerful 1.4 TFSI. As of 11th September, the more potent powerplant is $26,000 more than the base model.
The 1.8-litre variant may be good to have, but we reckon the 1.4 TFSI is just as capable in other areas, such as handling, yet at the same time achieving better fuel economy.
It really isn't hard for the smart buyer to tell the better of the two.
