Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Audi A3 35 TFSI S Tronic. If you're in the market for a premium compact car, this one's definitely been on your radar. Let's break down what makes it tick, from its performance and handling to its interior comfort and tech features. Buckle up, because we're about to get into the nitty-gritty of what this car offers. So, let’s get started with this detailed review and road test.

Overview of the Audi A3 35 TFSI S Tronic

The Audi A3 35 TFSI S Tronic represents Audi's attempt to blend luxury with practicality in a compact package. It's aimed at those who want a taste of the premium car experience without the bulk and fuel consumption of a larger vehicle. The '35 TFSI' designation tells us it's powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine, and the 'S Tronic' indicates it uses a dual-clutch automatic transmission. This combination is designed to offer a balance between performance and efficiency, making it suitable for both city driving and longer journeys. The A3, in general, has a reputation for being well-built, stylish, and offering a refined driving experience, and this particular variant aims to uphold that reputation. It competes in a crowded market segment against rivals like the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, so it needs to bring its A-game to stand out. In this review, we’ll delve into how well it achieves that.

Engine, Performance, and Handling

The heart of the Audi A3 35 TFSI S Tronic is its 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine. This engine delivers a healthy 150 horsepower, which, while not earth-shattering, is more than adequate for most driving situations. The turbocharger helps to provide a decent amount of torque, ensuring that the car feels responsive even at lower RPMs. This is particularly useful in urban environments where you need to quickly dart in and out of traffic. The S Tronic dual-clutch transmission is a key component of the driving experience. It offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both the car's acceleration and its fuel efficiency. In automatic mode, it seamlessly shifts gears, making for a relaxed driving experience. For those who prefer more control, there's also a manual mode where you can use the paddle shifters to change gears yourself. This adds a sporty element to the drive. The handling of the A3 is generally very good. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver. The suspension is firm enough to keep the car stable in corners, but not so harsh that it becomes uncomfortable on rough roads. Overall, the A3 strikes a good balance between sporty handling and comfortable ride quality. It's a car that inspires confidence behind the wheel, whether you're navigating tight city streets or cruising on the highway. While it may not be the most thrilling car in its class in terms of outright performance, it's certainly a very competent and enjoyable one to drive.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping inside the Audi A3 35 TFSI S Tronic, you're immediately greeted by a cabin that exudes quality and sophistication. Audi has a well-deserved reputation for its interior design, and the A3 doesn't disappoint. The materials used throughout the cabin feel premium to the touch, and the build quality is excellent. Everything feels solid and well put together, giving you the sense that this is a car built to last. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on longer journeys. There's plenty of adjustment available, so it's easy to find a driving position that suits you. The A3 also offers a good amount of space for both front and rear passengers, although taller adults might find the rear a little cramped on longer trips. In terms of features, the A3 comes well-equipped. Even the base models include things like a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, and various driver assistance features. Higher-spec models add even more goodies, such as leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and an upgraded sound system. The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with crisp graphics and quick response times. It integrates seamlessly with your smartphone, allowing you to access your music, navigation, and other apps on the car's display. Overall, the interior of the A3 is a very pleasant place to be. It's comfortable, well-equipped, and oozes quality, making it a standout in its class. Audi has really paid attention to the details, creating a cabin that feels both luxurious and functional.

Technology and Connectivity

In today's world, technology is a crucial aspect of any car, and the Audi A3 35 TFSI S Tronic doesn't disappoint. The centerpiece of the A3's tech suite is its infotainment system, which is one of the best in the business. The system is centered around a touchscreen display that's clear, responsive, and easy to navigate. It offers a wide range of features, including navigation, media playback, and vehicle settings. The A3 also comes standard with smartphone integration, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the car and access your favorite apps on the infotainment screen. The A3 also offers a range of connected services, such as real-time traffic updates, online search, and remote vehicle access. These services can be accessed through the MyAudi app, which allows you to control various aspects of the car from your smartphone. In terms of driver assistance technology, the A3 comes with a comprehensive suite of features designed to enhance safety and convenience. These include things like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to make driving easier and safer, especially on long journeys. Overall, the A3 is a very technologically advanced car. Its infotainment system is top-notch, its connected services are useful, and its driver assistance features are comprehensive. Audi has clearly put a lot of effort into making the A3 a leader in its class when it comes to technology.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

One of the key considerations for anyone buying a car is its fuel economy and running costs. The Audi A3 35 TFSI S Tronic is designed to be relatively efficient, thanks to its small turbocharged engine and dual-clutch transmission. Officially, Audi claims that the A3 can achieve around 45-50 mpg on the combined cycle. In real-world driving, however, you're more likely to see figures in the low to mid-40s. This is still a respectable figure, and it makes the A3 a relatively economical car to run. In terms of other running costs, the A3 is likely to be more expensive than some of its non-premium rivals. Servicing costs are likely to be higher, and you'll also need to factor in the cost of insurance and road tax. However, the A3 is likely to hold its value well, which can help to offset some of these costs. Overall, the A3 is not the cheapest car to run, but it's also not the most expensive. Its fuel economy is good, and its strong resale value helps to keep costs in check. If you're looking for a premium compact car that won't break the bank, the A3 is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to factor in all of the running costs before you make a decision.

Pros and Cons

To give you a clear and balanced view, let's break down the pros and cons of the Audi A3 35 TFSI S Tronic:

Pros:

• Premium Interior: The A3 boasts a high-quality interior with excellent materials and build quality.
• Smooth Transmission: The S Tronic dual-clutch transmission offers quick and smooth gear changes.
• Good Handling: The A3 handles well, with precise steering and a composed ride.
• Advanced Technology: The car is packed with advanced technology features, including a top-notch infotainment system.
• Fuel Efficient: Its engine is relatively fuel-efficient, helping to keep running costs down.

Cons:

• Rear Space: Rear passenger space can be a bit cramped for taller adults.
• Running Costs: Running costs can be higher compared to non-premium rivals.
• Base Model: The base model's equipment list could be more generous.
• Not the Most Exciting: It may not be the most thrilling car to drive in its class for enthusiasts.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the Audi A3 35 TFSI S Tronic? Overall, it's a very impressive car that offers a compelling blend of luxury, practicality, and technology. It's not the cheapest car in its class, but it justifies its price tag with its premium interior, smooth transmission, and advanced features. If you're looking for a compact car that feels a cut above the rest, the A3 is definitely worth considering. It's a car that's equally at home in the city or on the open road, and it's sure to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. While it may not be the most exciting car for hardcore enthusiasts, it's a well-rounded package that will appeal to a wide range of drivers. Audi has done a great job of creating a car that's both luxurious and practical, and the A3 is a testament to their engineering prowess. So, if you're in the market for a premium compact car, be sure to give the A3 a test drive. You might just find that it's the perfect car for you.