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Driven - Audi A3 35TSI Sportback

The 2022 Audi A3 35TFSI Sportback

Quick Facts:

  • Price: From R601 000
  • Engine: 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine
  • Transmission: eight-speed DCT
  • Power/Torque: 110kW/250Nm

By Kumbi Mtshakazi

We sampled the all-new Audi A3 35 TFSI Sportback.

Although everyone seems to be dumping hatchbacks in favour of compact SUVs/crossovers, Audi has maintained its faith in its hatchback. We spent time sampling the all-new Audi 35TFSI Sportback and we thoroughly enjoyed every moment with the Ingolstadt machine. Powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine, the 35TFSI generates 110kw of power and 250nm of torque, which is sent to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

In addition to redesigned bumpers in the front and rear, a stylish honeycomb grille, sleek lines to the body and LED lights, the all-new Audi A3 comes with a longer wheelbase than its predecessor. Our particular test unit was fully loaded with options worth over R200 000. Our favourite was the S Line exterior option, which comes at an additional cost of R18 000. We found the 18-inch platinum alloys caused quite a stir everywhere we travelled, even though they cost R28 000, it was another option we considered ticking.

Our particular test unit was fully loaded with options worth over R200 000.

On the inside, the Audi A3 shines and continues to stand out as a premium offering. Even though most of the equipment in our test unit was optional, the build quality is excellent, and plastics have been kept to a minimum. This unit was equipped with the S Line interior package (R26 500), stainless steel pedals, illuminated S Line door seals, leatherette armrest as well as our favourite, the Sports seats. Furthermore, the cabin is extremely well insulated, and the NVH is on par with its competitors. 

With a panoramic sunroof, the cabin feels brighter and larger than the previous generation A3. All controls, from the light switch to the radio, have been kept to the bare minimum, with no physical buttons on display, something we do not consider a flaw. When it comes to gripes and pet peeves, ours has to be the piano black surfaces, which can be a nightmare to keep clean, even after the car is washed. Apart from the drawbacks, there is a new toggle switch gear lever found on their cousin products, the Golf and Porsche. We like it since it gives the interior a sleeker look. MMI Navigation with MMI touch is included in the technology pack (R20 000) and it's brilliant! The high-res displays on the 12.3-inch infotainment screen make for quite a show. The digital driver's display is also great during the day and at night and displays a host of information.

There is ample room in the cabin to accommodate four adults comfortably and the luggage space is good enough for any road trip. Speaking of road trips, the optional Bang and Olufsen sound system with 3D sound is any audiophile's dream. However, it will cost you R13 500 for that dream to come true.

Interior wrap up:

Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, Wireless Charging Pad, Ambient Lighting, Electronically adjustable driver seats with memory function.

With the EA211 engine and MQB platform being used, it’s not an unfamiliar product.

Upon taking delivery of the A3 35TFSI, we really thought the drive would be dull as the 1.4-litre engine in this case was not that powerful. However, that was far from the case, the engine is brilliant and it punches above its weight. It's a very economical car and is based on the MQB platform. The ride was very comfortable. Our problems were only apparent on some harsh roads, and we did encounter some bumps, but we thought the only solution would be to only use 17-inch wheels instead of the 18-inch wheels our test vehicle was using. One thing we loved about this particular car, was just how laid back it made us feel. We never felt the need to speed, however, steering inputs were precise!

Overall, the Audi A3 is a great premium compact hatch. The only drawback is that you might need to stretch your Rand and tick a few options and that might have you getting closer to almost a million. Luckily for you, there are various packages already that Audi has put together and that might just be the better way to go about it.

Pricing 

The Audi A3 is priced from R601 000

Price as tested - R812 700

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