Too Haute to Handle?

September 10, 2005

Too Haute to Handle?

ENGINE 2.0-litre turbocharged engine is very punchy, and it’s mated to the excellent twin-clutch DSG gearbox

INTERIOR The interior is impeccably built and features some components that are also found in the ultra-stylish TT coupe

EXTERIOR The A3 is very handsome and our test car came with an optional S-line bodykit that further enhances the car’s good looks

Two versions are currently available, the 109bhp 1.6-litre model and the car tested here, the 200bhp 2.0 T FSI. The more powerful variant is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine that employs Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) technology, which is Volkswagen-speak for direct petrol injection.

In addition to using the same power unit as the VW Golf GTI, the A3 also uses the same six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) which is a very good thing as it is the most convincing semi-automatic
transmission currently available.

Predictably then, the A3 goes about its business just as well as the Volkswagen, its torquey engine pulling strongly right through the rev range. Those driving more enthusiastically will also be entertained with a tuneful exhaust that punctuates the transmission’s up-shifts with a sporty ‘pop-pop’ that adds to the sense of occasion.

The Audi though, is endowed with a slightly more refined ride than the Volkswagen, and consequently does a better job of smothering bumps on the road and keeping wind noise from intruding into the cabin.

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