A 5 door A3 isn't a "smaller hatchback" though - you can't compare it to something like a Clio. IMO it would be fine for the mileage he is doing.
Looking to buy an Audi A3 - Any pointers?
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A 5 door A3 isn't a "smaller hatchback" though - you can't compare it to something like a Clio. IMO it would be fine for the mileage he is doing.
I am going to test drive a BMW next week (i've only ever been a passenger in one!). I wouldn't mind a Jag, but I don't like the x-type/s-type styling and for the mileage I am going to do, don't really want anything older! If I could afford an XF though, i'm sure it would be a different matter!
To be honest I was going to link to a 320d as its more comparible to the A3, but I feared the wrath of the OcUK BMW squad for reccomending the "wrong" engine.
Maybe an XF next time around
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Mondeos depreciate like a whore with AIDS. The BMW you posted is a) an SE when the OP wants S-Line b)Has cloth interior when OP wants leather and c)Is overpriced for the spec.
The quickest look finds these, which admittidly don't all have nav, but at least tick most of the boxes
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/1182105.htm
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/1193499.htm
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/1107113.htm
The quickest look finds these, which admittidly don't all have nav, but at least tick most of the boxes
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/1182105.htm
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/1193499.htm
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/1107113.htm
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I test drove a 55 plate 3.2 DSG - obviously the engine will be clearly different, but the interior was as you'd expect from an audi, comfortable and functional, the suspension whilst taught and a little hard isn't too bad (though the car had 18" wheels so probably made a difference). It drove beautifully, and handled well, if only for a bit too much understeer for my liking (but it's to be expected).
I was really impressed with the A3 - feels a lot more spacious inside than you think, but at the same time you feel strangely cocooned. Even with my driving position set someone could have sat behind me.
I can see it munching the miles for breakfast. Very relaxing drive for cruising, but aggressive if needs be for fun on the fun roads.
I liked it.
I was really impressed with the A3 - feels a lot more spacious inside than you think, but at the same time you feel strangely cocooned. Even with my driving position set someone could have sat behind me.
I can see it munching the miles for breakfast. Very relaxing drive for cruising, but aggressive if needs be for fun on the fun roads.
I liked it.
![[TW]Fox](/data/man-of-honor/2009.png){kind=avatar}
S-Line is an Audi trim level. An SE BMW probably handles better than an S-Line Audi anyway, Audi doesn't really 'do' handling, it just makes the suspension rock hard so it feels 'sporty'.
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[TW]Fox;14739411 said:
It's a fair comment - though can be tweaked a little if outright handling is what you're after, but generally people don't bother.
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Isn't S-Line to Audi what M-Sport is to BMW? I'm not saying they're combarable to one another but in terms of each brand, they sit at a similar level, no?[TW]Fox;14739411 said:
At the risk of dragging this argument back up, I would compltely agree with this. For the vast majority of people. a 330/335d or something equally as fancy, is complete overkill.
The fact is, a 140bhp VAG diesel will be more than adequate for any day to day use. It is far from refined, however it has more than enough shove to get you out of any difficulty when overtaking/on the motorway. Its reasonably economical, and quite reliable too.
It is not a great drivers car by any means, but was it ever supposed to be? It is a decent engine which will suit 99% of people for a commute, even a longer one.
I've driven a car with this engine in it for a great many miles, over many different roads and for different purposes. I can't remember ever thinking that it felt underpowered or too uncomfortable.
I used to drive an A6 with an S line trim level and I didn't have any problems with that. Putting everything into perspective though, I think the ride in an A3 is going to be better than my Focus
(in my opinion).
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Its going to be a slightly harsh ride vs the focus because Audi seem to think harsh ride = sporty.
TBH i've got no issues with the ride quality but some people might have sore bottoms or like puffing away on a pipe so a stiff ride is not for everyone.......
TBH i've got no issues with the ride quality but some people might have sore bottoms or like puffing away on a pipe so a stiff ride is not for everyone.......
Whilst my thread isn't as exciting as some of the goings on in the motors section, I thought I would give you an update!
I think i'll be running to car into the ground so looking for something a tiny bit bigger than an A3 now - missus said something about child seats
- hopefully not too soon though!
I have been looking around and think I might be able to squeeze an A4 into my price range (like the pistonheads example shown above)...
Any thoughts?
I think i'll be running to car into the ground so looking for something a tiny bit bigger than an A3 now - missus said something about child seats
- hopefully not too soon though!I have been looking around and think I might be able to squeeze an A4 into my price range (like the pistonheads example shown above)...
Any thoughts?