Model tested: Audi A3 2.0TDi automatic
RRP: $47,800
Price as tested: $59,185
Road tester: Glenn Butler
Date tested: June 2004
Distance covered: 489km
If the A3 turbodiesel wasn't a whopping $4900 more expensive than the petrol variant, we'd have no trouble recommending it. But that's a sizeable chunk of cash to ask for a more economical version of essentially the same vehicle. Do the sums and it'll take 380,000km of driving to see a financial advantage.
(We used Audi's claimed fuel consumption figures of 5.7l/100km for the diesel and 6.9l/100km for the 2.0FSI petrol version, and a fuel price of 105cpl.)
But the A3 2.0TDi brings more than just a fuel economy card to the poker game: it's actually a much nicer vehicle to drive. The diesel engine's mountainous torque curve makes it a very easy car to drive around town and when crusing the highways. Combine this with the super smooth DSG gearbox, and it's hard to fault.
Which is what makes the electronic throttle setup stand out in this otherwise accomplished grouping. The throttle's delayed response to any substantial requests for acceleration is very annoying and hard to get used to. It's especially disruptive when you're trying to time a gap in the traffic. Then there's our old bug bear: any brake application causes the electronic throttle to disengage, which renders left foot braking -- or quick brake-to-throttle moves -- useless.
The ride quality of the Ambition model we tested -- with sports suspension -- was a bit too firm for our liking, and too reactive to road irregularities. The stiff ride does mean a more sporty, lively vehicle when the roads twist, but they don't twist often enough to make it worthwhile. Stick to standard suspension and enjoy the comfort.
Speaking of comfort, Audi's cabins are class leaders when it comes to balancing space and comfort against the need to be close to the action. We had no trouble finding a good driving position thanks to the multi-adjustable seat and steering column. We also had no trouble fitting in the rear, though getting there is a problem for the less flexible among us.
Yes, $48,000 is a lot to ask for a 2.0-litre, three-door hatchback, but remember that badge cachet counts for more than just a good resale value. Every Audi is built to a high standard, and often the dollars are spent on things you can't see, like the cabin insulation, extra chassis rigidity, higher-quality paint, plusher seats, etc. Is the A3 2.0Tdi a good car? Absolutely. It's not flawless, but the good outweighs the bad. Does it justify the price? That's for you to decide... After all, it's your money.
Options on test car:
Metallic paint @ $1300
Leather multifunction steering wheel + tip @ $760
Additional interior light @ $475
Leather upholstery @ $3200
Electric glass sunroof @ $1850
Cruise control @ $750
Front centre armrest @ $350
Xenon headlights @ $1900
Anti-theft Alarm @ $800
Read more on the Audi A3:
» CarPoint's review on the Audi A3 range
» CarPoint's review on the Audi A3 Sportback 3.2 DSG
» CaPoint's review on the Audi A3 2.0FSI automatic