Test drive Audi A3 Sportback 35 TDI 150 CV S-Tronic, the perfection of experience

Nowadays, testing and, therefore, venturing to buy a diesel car is quite an exercise in courage and risk. But, outside the big cities, there is a vast world where those of us who drive many kilometres do not need to enter a major city every day, and look for cars that save money, since a diesel still has its place and its full meaning.

That is why we wanted to carry out this test, not without a certain nostalgia, since there are hardly any diesel vehicles left to test from certain brands (at least in the press fleet; it is true that they continue to be sold in their range). Without further ado, we start with the test of the Audi A3 Sportback in its 35 TDI S-Tronic version of 150 CV and a 7-speed automatic gearbox.

Design: clean lines, sportiness and quality finishes

Amid the outbreak of the COVID pandemic (yes, the one that is still lurking around) in March 2020, the fourth generation of the Audi A3 was launched. Although it is already a veteran model, its designers have hit the key point, since it still draws attention wherever it goes, with a sporty exterior.

Its front headlights stand out in particular, with full-LED technology on our model (whose only drawback was the low illumination of the dipped beam), while at the rear and on the side its shapes are defined by straight lines, with LED rear lights as well.

The interior stands out for a more technological touch than the previous generation, integrating the touchscreen into the centre console, with a highlight on the digital instrumentation and pleasant-to-the-touch, high-quality materials. In fact, the most striking thing is that there is no excessive use of glossy black plastic and that high quality standards are maintained (something that many premium compacts today cannot say).

The driving position, thanks to the sports seats, is very comfortable. Although we do not recommend full leather seats for Mediterranean climates, they are not perforated and the heat is felt in them during summer.

Engine and performance: 150 CV, very economical

This time we had the opportunity to carry out a somewhat longer test than usual, covering more than 2,000 km with this diesel A3, which proved to be a real delight in terms of handling and consumption.

But let’s start at the beginning. Under the bonnet lies the well-known two-litre, four-cylinder block with 150 CV, an engine with performance that is more than capable of moving this compact.

It is a smooth engine, with more than enough power, allowing us to bring out a more dynamic side and enjoy driving. The seven-speed S-Tronic gearbox is comfortable, but with a manual gearbox we squeezed out every horsepower better and could reduce consumption slightly.

Consumption came in at 5.6 litres per 100 km, after covering more than 2,000 km. In fact, on urban routes the average was 6 litres per 100 km, very good figures. With a full tank, the range exceeds 800 km (50 litres).

Handling: stable, comfortable and agile

Another detail that surprised us is the set-up of this Audi A3 S-Line, since its behaviour provides great comfort on long trips along main roads or motorways, while at the same time allowing us to enjoy a mountain pass.

On the road the level of interior noise insulation is good, making it comfortable, although the suspension, typical of this trim level, is slightly firm. On the other hand, it has an agile, well-balanced chassis that keeps the car under control at all times, being very responsive and even fun.

That said, the optional wheels, Audi Sport 235/35 R19, suffered considerably on areas with poor road surfaces.

Equipment and price of the Audi A3

Among the standout features is the excellent illumination of the Matrix-LED headlights, which, as I already mentioned, are outstanding on high beam and in automatic operation, but the dipped beam was very low.

Also worth highlighting is the standard equipment in terms of connectivity and multimedia, as well as the standard sound system, which is decent and of acceptable quality. It is true that the sound system in our version was the Audi Sound System, which is recommended over the standard six speakers and is reasonably priced.

Another recommended element is the camera system, which creates a 360-degree view and is really useful for parking, as well as adaptive cruise control (standard is conventional).

As a curious detail, the equipment list includes the gear lever, with a rather unusual selector, which I am not entirely convinced by (I am a nostalgic, but I preferred the traditional lever).

The starting price is 32,210 euros (for the 30 TFSI engine), while our unit had a final price of 39,470 euros (plus options).

In summary, this is a compact that has improved over the years and generations, reaching this fourth generation, with a very well-balanced model that really convinces. Is diesel recommended? It is a difficult question to answer, but if you do not move in urban environments, if you do not need to enter major cities every day and you also drive many kilometres (more than 25,000 km/year), it does seem to be worthwhile.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira

Technical specifications of this car

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