Test drive Audi A3 Sportback: forward and up

First impression of the new generation of the compact model from Ingolstadt

The new generation of the Audi Sportback is slightly larger and more refined. The model has a common technological base with the VW Golf VIII and Seat Leon - a version of the modular Evo platform for models with a transverse engine.

Premium compact-class models are a very interesting market segment. For manufacturers, this is an opportunity to find new brand customers and reduce the overall fuel consumption of their models. For buyers, such models are a way to feel like a first-class driver without paying an infinitely high price. This has been the mission of the Audi A3 for almost 25 years, and as the production run, which already exceeds five million vehicles, shows eloquently, the model is succeeding.

Now we have the fourth edition of the model. It boasts a shiny red lacquer finish and definitely looks good. This is an A3 in 35 TFSI version with mild hybrid technology, powered by a 48-volt on-board network. Analog devices are already part of the story - the Digital-Cockpit comes as standard, and at an additional cost, a version with a larger screen and even more advanced functionality is available.

Press the start button on the engine and it's time to start. The control lever for the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission is now a miniature joystick, the manual transmission levers are standard. So far, TSI gasoline engines have won sympathy for their balanced ride, and in the A3, the four-cylinder engine runs even more discreetly than we're used to. The starter generator provides exceptionally smooth ignition and starting. We're already at 120 km / h, it's time to check how the auxiliary systems work.

The A3 offers Pre Sense Front, Lane Keeping Assistant and Serving Assistant as standard. As an option, you can get a whole range of electronic assistants, including an adaptive speed control assistant.

We leave the track, it's time for more serious turns. A3 allows you to select different modes using the so-called. Drive-Mode selector, we turn on Dynamic, which strengthens the shock absorbers and makes the steering more direct. The car manages to amaze with its remarkable neutrality and stability in turns, skidding is achieved only with a really gross violation of the laws of physics.

Shifting manually is a nice touch, but in fact the Dynamic does it all so well, including automatic downshifting when downshifting, that it's practically unnecessary. The asphalt on the road has become more uneven, so we switch to Comfort mode.

There is enough interior space, but not much. That is, if you felt good in the previous A3, the new generation will suit you too. The sensations from the seats in the second row are not very pleasant, where wide rear speakers completely obscure the view and the subjective sense of space.

Along with the petrol 35 TFSI, the model is also available in two diesel versions: 30 TDI with 116 hp. and 35 TDI with 150 hp. Like the Golf range, lower power versions also use a torsion bar instead of an independent rear axle suspension. Such is the case with the 30 TDI, which, to our pleasant surprise, actually drives just as well as its big brother. In all other respects, the "small" diesel is not much inferior to its more expensive relatives - which actually makes it not only economical, but also a really meaningful alternative to the A3. After all, the premium character is a fact in each of the engines.

CONCLUSION

In terms of handling, assisting systems and lighting technology, the new A3 Sportback breathes on the neck of its larger A4 sibling. The compact Audi model impresses with its well-balanced handling and high-quality interior materials.