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REVIEWS Press Drives: 2013 Audi A3

Discussion in 'A3/S3/RS3' started by tristatez28lt1, May 4, 2012.

Page 1 of 6

tristatez28lt1 Well-Known Member
First drive by Car and Driver:
http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2013-audi-a3-quattro-first-ride-review

2013 Audi A3 Quattro

We go for a ride with Audi's R&D chief in his new compact.

MAY 2012

BY JUERGEN ZOELLTER

“We do not want to shock our customers,” says Michael Dick, board member of development at Audi, in a veiled shot at Mercedes-Benz. “That’s why we decided to go for evolutionary design changes on our new Audi A3.” The unspoken criticism is for the radically altered appearance of the latest A-class, which is the most direct competitor to the A3.
As our chaperone unlocks a new A3 three-door hatchback—a sedan is the only definite body style for the U.S. at this point, but a five-door and possibly a convertible are planned—he mentions that this trip will be the first time he’s driven what will be his personal car for the next six months. In a strange way, we feel slightly honored to be accompanying him. “Don’t study this car too hard,” he says, referencing the fact that this new A3 is fitted with items that won’t be available to customers until the end of this year. Those include the Quattro all-wheel-drive system; the racy, quilted-leather front seats; and the special blue exterior paint. Of course, his request has only set us on higher alert.
Gleaming the MQB
Like any company and one of its new products, Audi intends for the A3 to be the class leader in its segment. The company is aware that many buyers think of the model as simply a tarted-up VW Golf, an impression that Michael is quick to counter with the claim that the “new A3 is a completely different car!” Well, not quite. The basis for both the new A3 and the next-generation MkVII Golf is Volkswagen’s highly flexible MQB architecture (full details here). It’s a highly cost-effective, modular front-drive-based component set that can underpin cars as varied in size as the Volkswagen Polo and the Volkswagen Passat, and also will be used by SEAT and Škoda. The new A3 will be the first car spun from MQB bones to reach consumers.
MQB, simply expressed, consists of one fixed base component that stretches from the front axle to the pedal box and four additional, flexible modules; it is the latter bits that allow the platform to underpin cars of varying lengths. In terms of the new A3, Audi saw the variability as an opportunity to build the three- and five-door A3 models on different wheelbases, with the latter getting an additional 1.4 inches. (The two A3s are expected to differ in character, with the three-door being positioned as the sporty alternative to the more comfortable five-door.) The three-door A3, which we are riding in, measures 102.4 inches between the wheels, the same span you’ll find on both three- and five-door MkVII Golfs as well as the next-generation Audi TT. It’s also almost an inch longer than on the previous-generation A3, and the stretch is applied in its entirety to the rear legroom.
As for the rest of its dimensions, the new three-door A3 is 1.8 inches longer and just a hair narrower than before. With a shorter overhang in front, it is 1.4 inches shorter overall than the next Golf. The two cars share a roofline, but the Audi’s styling is decidedly more macho. Audi also incorporates more lightweight materials into its car—a luxury afforded by the A3’s higher price—including an aluminum front subframe and hood, items that we’re told required a fight to implement. The new car’s body-in-white is claimed by Audi to be 176 pounds lighter than it’s predecessor’s.

Chassis and Interior
To differentiate the new A3 from the MkVII Golf in terms of driving dynamics and handling, the Audi’s chassis receives special tuning. The springs are softer than the old car’s, but the dampers are stiffer than those of both the outgoing A3 and the new Golf. Larger rolling stock and a weightier setting for the electrically boosted steering make for more direct dynamics and a sportier feel. Audi also will incorporate active engine mounts into the platform, but only for use in the forthcoming—and likely Euro-only—RS3 model.
But even without the active mounts, overall refinement of the new A3 is improved. The 177-horse, 1.8-liter turbo four in this car provides decent acceleration, and the Quattro all-wheel drive means there’s plenty of traction as we accelerate hard out of corners. There’s also a distinct lack of wind and tire noise, even at freeway speeds; the only real sound that reaches our ears is a soft growl when the tach needle climbs above 4000 rpm. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox goes about its business quickly and unobtrusively.
Beyond the extra civility to its manners, the most obvious interior difference between this car and Volkswagen’s volume player is the minimalism with which the Audi is designed. (We saw a preview of the interior at CES earlier this year.) There are just a few buttons and switches, and the center stack is topped by the extremely thin seven-inch screen that we recognize from the A6 and A8. As in the larger cars, it’s motorized—another feature for which engineers had to fight in this compact—and pops up in an elegant arc from under the dashtop. (It doesn’t directly rise from behind the vents because “there is not much room behind [them].”) The A3 also incorporates Audi’s touchpad for entering navigation directions and more into the MMI infotainment system; it recognizes not only Western writing, but Chinese characters as well. It’s a neat trick, but some of us would prefer properly functioning voice commands. The A3 also incorporates most of Audi’s driver-assistance systems—blind-spot monitoring, etc.—as fitted to the A6, A7, and A8.
As we end our trip, it’s clear that this car represents a step forward versus the previous A3. Of course, the evolutionary exterior styling means that many people may not immediately identify this car as an all-new model, but that will change as soon as they peer inside. The interior design, material quality, and fit and finish are all first rate. A cool detail we’d be remiss in not mentioning is the optional horizontal glass piece that bisects the dash and continues into the doors. It illuminates at night, providing ambient light.
In the U.S., we’ll get the first-ever A3 sedan, as well as possibly the five-door model. We hear that the convertible is likely to be based on the sedan (the previous A3 cab used the three-door as its base), which ups the chances for U.S. sales. Initial engine choices are expected to be a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel and a 2.0-liter turbo four with roughly 200 hp, with a more-powerful, 300-ish-hp S3 model maybe coming later. We also may see hybrid and fully electric versions. The A3 four-door will arrive in the States next year—we’re looking forward to pitching it into battle with the recently announced Mercedes-Benz CLA-class.
tristatez28lt1, May 4, 2012

#1
- Like x 4
tristatez28lt1 Well-Known Member

Specifications >

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 3-door hatchback
ENGINE TYPE: turbocharged and intercooled SOHC inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 110 cu in, 1798 cc
Power: 177 bhp
Torque: 184 lb-ft
TRANSMISSION: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic with manual shifting mode
DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 102.4 in
Length: 166.8 in
Width: 77.4 in Height: 55.9 in
Curb weight (C/D est): 3100 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST):
Zero to 60 mph: 6.8 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 15.5 sec
Top speed: 144 mph
FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST):
EPA city/highway driving: 26/39 mpg

tristatez28lt1, May 4, 2012

#2
Giannis Global Moderator / Editor

Moved to a new thread!

Giannis, May 4, 2012

#3
- Like x 1
Tumbo Audi/MB/VW/Lambo fan

0-100 in 6.8 seconds with just 177hp? Impressing!

Tumbo, May 5, 2012

#4
- Like x 1
MarcinM Member

0-96 km/h in 6.8 seconds (not 0 - 100 km/h)

MarcinM, May 5, 2012

#5
- Like x 1
Tumbo Audi/MB/VW/Lambo fan

So

MarcinM said: ↑

0-96 km/h in 6.8 seconds (not 0 - 100 km/h)

So its lie 7.0-7.1 to 100km/h, which still is a decent time for 177hp only

Tumbo, May 5, 2012

#6
south Well-Known Member

First ride reviews are lame.

Best regards,
south

south, May 5, 2012

#7
Just_me Well-Known Member

Boring tesdrives. Who care about a passenger review.

When is the new A3 coming to Sweden so I can go for a testdrive myself?

Just_me, May 5, 2012

#8
- Like x 1
Human BMW's my Brand

From launch the cabin impressed me most and I read:

The interior design, material quality, and fit and finish are all first rate. A cool detail we’d be remiss in not mentioning is the optional horizontal glass piece that bisects the dash and continues into the doors. It illuminates at night, providing ambient light.

Human, May 7, 2012

#9
- Like x 1
tristatez28lt1 Well-Known Member
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrives/283294/new_audi_a3.html

New Audi A3

All-new A3 takes hi-tech approach to battling the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes A-Class

By Steve Fowler

May 2012

Rating:

Latest deal price: from £15,566 to £22,520

The Audi A3 was the original premium downsizer back in 1996, bringing a degree of poshness never before seen in a Golf-sized car. Two generations on, this new model may not look a whole lot different, but it promises to move the A3 even further upmarket with an added dose of efficiency and dynamic appeal.
It’ll have to be good with the new BMW 1 Series already impressing and the exciting new Mercedes A-Class just around the corner, too. Then, of course, you’ve got a new Golf due at the end of the year, while Ford and other mainstream makers are pushing their small hatchbacks further upmarket.
So Audi has taken an intelligent approach to the new A3 – this is its most advanced Audi yet, not only in terms of clever on-board gadgets, but the way the car is built.
It’s about the same length as the old A3, but with a longer wheelbase for more interior space and better dynamics. It’s a shade wider, too. But most importantly, it’s the first VW Group car to sit on the much talked about MBQ platform – a lightweight chassis system that shares many front end parts, but allows individual tailoring for the bits from the pedal box backward. It not only saves weight (around 80kg in the case of the A3) and saves money, it should improve everything from comfort and refinement to safety and economy.
So plenty has changed, apart from the looks. Audi itself describes the new A3 as evolutionary, but man has evolved faster than the look of Audi’s line-up. The goatee grill remains but there's slightly slimmer headlights, a sharper crease along the sides and larger rear lights. It looks like more of a facelift than an all-new car, but such is the way of Audi’s design these days – it probably won’t harm sales: Audi’s lookalike line-up helped the marque to a record year in 2011, with 2012 set to grow even further.
Inside, the changes are more obvious with the gains in width and wheelbase making the car feel much more spacious, especially in the front. A five-door Sportback model will arrive next year, but until then you’ll have to slide the front seat back to clamber into the rear. It’s pretty simple to do, but rear knee space is still a bit tight for tall adults, although headroom is fine. Boot space is up 15 litres making for a decent sized, nicely shaped load space.
However, it’s interior style and quality that Audi has become famous for and both have been stepped up another notch. The dash sits lower than before, while there’s less clutter – a slim 5.8-inch screen rises out of the dash, there are simpler air-con controls and Audi’s excellent MMI controller looks after many of the other functions.
It’s all smart and simple to use, while Audi has even thrown in handwriting recognition on top of the MMI controller. It sits between the front seats, so when right hand drive cars come to the UK the two thirds of the population who are right handed will have to learn to be a bit more dextrous with their left digits.
If you love your gadgets, though, you’ll love the A3. There’s the expected smartphone connection via Bluetooth, but you can also boast about navigation with Google Street View, your own on-board wireless hotspot, a box that’ll boost your mobile phone signal and internet radio.
Our biggest criticism of A3s of old is that they haven’t been that good to drive, while the ride has bordered on the uncomfy. Not any more – the standard cars still aren’t the sharpest to drive, electromechanical steering doesn’t give the greatest amount of feedback, while mid-corner bumps can cause the car to lurch a bit if you’re going really fast.
You can still have fun in a car that corners confidently, while the ride on standard suspension is good – comfy with only a slight hint of firmness and a real step forward compared to A3s of old.
All our test cars were on standard suspension, which is now a no cost option on S-Line or Sport models that are normally lowered (by 25mm and 15mm respectively).
Trim levels will be S, Sport or S-Line, with the latter likely to be the favourite thanks to smart 18-inch alloys, fancy Xenons with the latest interpretation of Audi’s famous daytime running lights, and a mild body kit.
We drove the mid-spec Sport model, which gets 17-inch alloys, Audi Drive Select (so you can choose between sportier or more relaxed steering and throttle settings – we left it in auto), sports seats, climate control and some aluminium trim. Not that SE models are poorly kitted: you still get alloys, air-con, iPod and Bluetooth connection, plus MMI and a display screen.
Initially, engine choice is limited to 1.4 and 1.8 TFSI petrol engines (the latter coming with an S Tronic double clutch gearbox) and a 2.0 TDI diesel. Prices range from £19,205 for a 120bhp 1.4 TFSI SE to £26,560 for the 178bhp 1.8 TFSI S-Line. The 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel starts at £21,505 in SE trim – going to Sport adds £1225, while going for S-Line means spending a further £2150.
We drove a car that will arrive towards the end of the year, the 74mpg, 99g/km 1.6-litre TDI with 104bhp and 184lb ft of torque. Although most buyers will favour the 2.0-litre diesel with its 68.9mpg and 106g/km, we reckon the 1.6 is worth a look. It’s a sweet engine, revving keenly with easily enough oomph and excellent refinement.
In fact, refinement is a real strong suit for the A3. There’s very little road noise, only a small amount of wind noise and the engine is nice and quiet, too. That’s very much in keeping with the new, relaxed nature of the A3. It may not be as sharp to drive as a 1 Series, but it seems to be taking a refreshingly different approach. Which makes the route the new Mercedes A-Class takes, all the more eagerly anticipated.
tristatez28lt1, May 15, 2012

#10
- Like x 2
tristatez28lt1 Well-Known Member

Autocar:
http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/first-drives/audi-a3-20-tdi-sport-s-tronic-0

What is it?
It’s the all-new, third generation Audi A3. It is notable not only because it is Audi’s biggest-selling model in the UK and a big-selling staple in the global market (more than 1.3m were sold in 2011 alone), but also because it is the first VW Group model to get the new MQB platform.

This ultra-flexible platform will be used to underpin everything from superminis to executive saloons. It won’t only be prolific; it also results in a new, cheaper and more efficient way of manufacturing, allowing different models to share more common parts and production facilities than before. So expect to see it in just about all of the big-selling VW brand models.
We’re testing the Audi A3 2.0 TDI, in mid-range Sport trim and complete with front-wheel drive, standard 17-inch alloys, the 2.0-litre turbodiesel (now substantially lighter and modified to produce 148bhp and improve emissions) and the optional, £1480 seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch 'auto.

Trim levels are the usual SE, Sport and S line, and all but SE get 15mm lowered suspension as standard. However, this option can be deleted in favour of a standard suspension setting at no cost, which is exactly the version we’re testing here.
What’s it like?
Very good. On first acquaintance it’s actually the clean lines and simple ergonomics of the interior that most impress. Undoubtedly the high spec of our test car, which came with the full navigation system and leather interior amongst other optional extras, played a part in the premium sensation. But even the basic architecture oozes high-class appeal. The seats could be a bit more supportive, but otherwise the A3 is easy to get comfortable in, intuitive to use and feels appropriately solid in every respect.

Those concerned about rear passenger space will undoubtedly want to wait for the five-door model that arrives later this year. This three-door model is perfectly adequate (if unexceptional) in terms of its rear accommodation and usefully-shaped 365 litre boot.

The dynamics have improved, too, even if the A3 remains a slightly sterile drive. The ride in particular is much more pliant at low speeds. It’s a little unsettled over bigger vertical intrusions at higher speeds, but even over off-camber roads and with cornering forces involved, the A3 remains planted but forgiving. On this early evidence, deleting the sports suspension is a good move. Body control is a little soft by typical Audi standards, but it’s never even remotely unsettling and undoubtedly it’s a very fair trade for the good ride comfort.

The A3 still handles well. Both SE and S line (which will account for the majority of sales) get 'Audi select' as standard, which brings with it a variable steering and gearbox setting. Select dynamic and the steering weights up substantially, and with the S tronic 'box in 'sport' the A3 2.0 TDI sings along in a stable, grippy and flowing fashion. It’s not hugely involving, but it is a pleasant and predictable thing to drive quickly, and the venerable 2.0 TDI provides a decent mid-range swell on which you can make rapid progress without difficulty.

The new A3 generally feels more light-footed than its predecessor – potentially due to the weight that has been saved by the use of aluminium. The A3 remains pretty much the same size but for a marginally longer wheelbase.
Stick in auto, and the steering is too often on the light and disconnected side, and the gearbox can be caught out, too, feeling a touch lethargic generally, and dim-witted in its down-changes under more vigorous use. Still, in unhurried driving the A3 2.0 TDI is notable for its refinement. Engine noise is very audible under throttle, but otherwise it’s well suppressed by big diesel standards.

Overall, though, we’d avoid the automatic in favour of the sweet-shifting manual, not only for the savings made on purchase price, but also because it’s a more pleasant drive and a cleaner car – a very impressive 68.9mpg and 106g/km next to the 62.7mpg and 119g/km that the auto' manages.
Should I buy one?

Yes. The A3 is not cheap, with this model coming in at over £24k (it’s £22,730 without the auto 'box), but Sport models are reasonably specced to include climate control, various aluminium style highlights, sports seats, multi-function wheel and a colour infotainment screen.

Ultimately, the new A3 is not a dazzlingly different experience to the old A3. But it has been improved in exactly the areas it needed improving, and it is now a more comfortable, better looking and even more pleasant and efficient place to cover many miles. The planted, accessible handling bodes well for other models using the MQB platform, and it is undoubtedly one of the most rounded cars in this class.

Audi A3 2.0 TDI Sport S tronic
Price: £24,210; 0-62mph: 8.5sec; Top speed: 134mph; Economy: 62.7mpg; Co2: 119g/km; Kerb weight: 1280kg; Engine type: 1968cc, 4cyl, turbodiesel; Power: 148bhp at 3500-4000rpm; Torque: 236lb ft at 1750-3000rpm; Gearbox: 7spd S tronic.

tristatez28lt1, May 16, 2012

#11
- Like x 1
Tumbo Audi/MB/VW/Lambo fan

I just have to say: I love this car! It looks amazing!

Tumbo, May 16, 2012

#12
Human BMW's my Brand
Audi A3

The new A3 beats the BMW 1 Series on style and quality, and the prices aren’t too far away from a VW Golf
Read more:http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/newreviews/283453/audi_a3.html#ixzz1v8EbRDng
Rating: 4 STAR

For: Fantastic cabin, spacious interior, comfortable ride

Against: Expensive, tight rear space, not as fun to drive as the 1 Series

The all-new Audi A3 is a well-rounded premium hatch. We love the style and quality of the cabin, which you’d probably expect from an Audi, but we also like the more relaxed drive with better ride quality - even if it does lack a bit of sharpness. It’s a strong rival for the BMW 1 Series, but takes a slightly different approach. It also provides strong competition for the VW Golf, even if it is a little pricier. Pick of the engines will be the smaller capacity units: the 1.6 TDI and the clever 1.4 with cylinder deactivation tech.

Our pick: 1.6 TDI S-Line

Styling
Audi design doesn’t move on too quickly, while you’ll struggle to tell an A3 from an A1, A4 or A6 in your rear-view mirror. That hasn’t stood in the way of Audis success, though, and viewed individually, the A3 is a smart, head-turning car with some neat detailing, especially the lights. But it’s the style and quality inside that’s most impressive – the cabin is beautifully designed with high quality materials and a decent amount of kit. Every model gets a slim 5.8-inch screen that slides out of the top of the dash and is controlled by Audi’s MMI controller.

Driving and Performance
If you stick with standard suspension, you’ll notice that Audi has traded some handling ability for comfort – not a bad thing. The A3 is still a tidy, if uninvolving, handler, but it now rides bumps better, with just a hint of firmness. You can have standard suspension on Sport and S-Line models, or for no extra cost get sportier settings. Our pick of the engines are the sweet 1.6-litre TDI and the smart 1.4 petrol – neither are especially quick, but are really nice to drive. The 1.8-litre petrol is speedier (but thirstier), while the 2.0 TDI is impressively frugal, but a bit gruff.

MPG and running costs
Both diesel models are cheap to run. The 2.0 TDI claims average fuel economy in the high 60s and CO2 emissions of just 106g/km, while the 1.6 TDI drops into the much friendlier sub-100g/km bracket and should improve economy by about 10mpg. Pricing isn’t as ambitious as it once was, either. Of the petrol models, the sportier 1.8 does a good job of minimising costs with claimed average economy of over 50mpg and CO2 emissions of 130g/km. The new 1.4-litre petrol with cylinder deactivation should be the star of the show, though, with diesel-style figures from an advanced, small petrol engine.

Practicality
Although the new Audi A3 isn’t any longer than the old car, its wheelbase has been stretched to liberate more interior room. The car is wider, too, so driver and front passenger sit further apart with more elbow room. Getting into the back of the three-door car isn’t too tricky, while legroom is still a little bit tight for taller adults. The boot has grown, too, by 15 litres to 365 litres, and it remains a very usable space, while the rear seats will flip forward easily for more room.

Safety and reliability
As well as the expected full complement of airbags plus stability systems and anti-lock brakes, the A3 can be bought with a whole host of electronic driver assistance systems. They include radar-controlled cruise control to maintain your distance to the car in front, lane keeping assistant to stop you wandering on the motorway, traffic sign detection and a pre-sense system to prepare the car in the event of an accident. You can even have your A3 park itself. Audi’s score in our Driver Power survey suggests that new A3 customers should be pretty happy as their biggest gripe was ride comfort.
Human, May 17, 2012

#13
Deckhook Well-Known Member

Just up reviewing the new A3 at the moment and without question this car is well ahead of the competition in terms of perceived interior quality. The word stunning doesn't quite cut it.

Will post pictures when I return home.

Deckhook, May 17, 2012

#14
speed_kills Active Member

It takes an Audi fan to love it.
It doesn't make me feel anything and the grille is little bit big in comparision with lights. It's the opposite in the rear, seems like they shove some A6 lights in to it and call it a day.
Great car in everything but souless.

speed_kills, May 17, 2012

#15
- Like x 2
Levi68 Well-Known Member

speed_kills said: ↑

Great car in everything but souless.

Weak argument. Some cars (Audi, McLaren, Lotus, Lexus...) a meant to be souless, but that is what make them great. Soul is nice but it is not everything. The LFA has no soul, but it is one of the most emotional cars out there, and Aston Martin has soul but the cars are slow, heavy and "cheap" (could be wrong). What about cars like BMW M that lose their soul ?

Levi68, May 17, 2012

#16
- Like x 1
speed_kills Active Member

The design for me is souless. In hatchbacks nothing beats the 147 2nd generation, pure art.
It's in the eye of the beyolder, not everyone likes the same thing.

speed_kills, May 17, 2012

#17
Levi68 Well-Known Member

speed_kills said: ↑

The design for me is souless. In hatchbacks nothing beats the 147 2nd generation, pure art.
It's in the eye of the beyolder, not everyone likes the same thing.

Design cannot be souless, it can only be generic and lack inspiration. Design can be either cool (Audi), elegant (Alfa Romeo) or avantgarde (Citroen DS). Of course all three can to some extent be mixed.

Soul is only the result of somthing else, mostly heritage, so a good design neither can give a car soul. Example: MP4-12C

Levi68, May 17, 2012

#18
- Like x 1
Just_me Well-Known Member

The design isnt unique, just typical Audi. I dont care much because I just hope it drives better than previous A3. The old is just plain boring becuase of that I never bought a A3.

Just_me, May 17, 2012

#19
speed_kills Active Member

Levi68 said: ↑

Design cannot be souless, it can only be generic and lack inspiration. Design can be either cool (Audi), elegant (Alfa Romeo) or avantgarde (Citroen DS). Of course all three can to some extent be mixed.

Soul is only the result of somthing else, mostly heritage, so a good design neither can give a car soul. Example: MP4-12C

No. Design is very important when buying a car. It has to inspire you and still look fresh in 15 years. Soul came also come for the exclusivity or an amazing engine.

speed_kills, May 17, 2012

#20

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