Audi A3 35 TFSI Sportback Review: Is It Worth It?

by Alex Braham 50 views

So, you're thinking about getting an Audi A3 35 TFSI Sportback? Awesome choice! This car is a real head-turner and packs a punch in terms of performance and features. But before you take the plunge, let's dive deep into a comprehensive review, covering everything you need to know to make an informed decision. We'll explore the engine, performance, interior, technology, and overall driving experience to help you determine if the A3 35 TFSI Sportback is the right fit for you. Let's get started, guys!

Engine and Performance: A Zippy Performer

Let's kick things off with what's under the hood. The Audi A3 35 TFSI Sportback is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine is part of Audi's TFSI (Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection) family, known for its efficiency and performance. It delivers a respectable 150 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. Now, that might not sound like a supercar, but trust me, it's more than enough to make this car feel quick and agile.

The 35 TFSI designation indicates the engine's relative power output within Audi's naming convention. While it might seem a bit cryptic, just know that it signifies a good balance of performance and fuel economy. The turbocharger spools up quickly, providing instant response when you put your foot down. This makes the A3 a joy to drive around town, zipping through traffic with ease. It's also comfortable on the open road, with enough power for confident overtaking.

The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. The S tronic is the one to go for if you want the smoothest and quickest gear changes. It shifts seamlessly and intuitively, making the most of the engine's power. You can also take control yourself using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel for a more engaging driving experience. The manual is good, too, offering a more traditional feel, but the S tronic is just so refined and efficient.

Fuel economy is another strong point of the A3 35 TFSI Sportback. Thanks to its efficient engine and lightweight construction, it can achieve impressive mpg figures. You can expect to see around 45-50 mpg on a long run, and even in urban environments, it's still pretty frugal. This makes it a great choice if you're looking for a car that's both fun to drive and easy on the wallet.

Interior and Technology: A Premium Experience

Step inside the Audi A3 35 TFSI Sportback, and you'll be greeted by a stylish and well-appointed interior. Audi has a reputation for quality, and the A3 doesn't disappoint. The materials feel premium, the fit and finish are excellent, and the overall design is modern and sophisticated.

The dashboard is dominated by Audi's Virtual Cockpit, a fully digital instrument cluster that replaces the traditional gauges. This is a fantastic feature that allows you to customize the display to show the information you want, from speed and revs to navigation and media. It looks great and is easy to use, making the driving experience more engaging and informative.

The infotainment system is controlled by a touchscreen display in the center of the dashboard. It's intuitive and responsive, with crisp graphics and a user-friendly interface. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The system also includes navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a range of other features.

The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long journeys. They're available in a range of materials, including cloth, leather, and a combination of both. The driving position is excellent, with plenty of adjustment in the seat and steering wheel. There's also plenty of space in the front, even for taller drivers and passengers.

In the back, space is a bit more limited, especially for adults. Legroom can be a bit tight, especially if the front seats are pushed back. However, it's perfectly adequate for children or shorter adults. The Sportback design does offer a decent amount of headroom, though.

The trunk is a good size for a hatchback, with enough space for a weekly grocery shop or a couple of suitcases. The rear seats can also be folded down to create even more space, which is handy for carrying larger items. Overall, the interior of the A3 35 TFSI Sportback is a pleasant place to be, offering a blend of style, comfort, and technology.

Driving Experience: Agile and Refined

The Audi A3 35 TFSI Sportback is a joy to drive. It strikes a great balance between comfort and handling, making it a fun and engaging car to drive in a variety of conditions. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback and making it easy to place the car on the road. The suspension is firm enough to keep body roll in check, but it's also compliant enough to absorb bumps and potholes without jarring you around.

The car feels nimble and agile, thanks to its relatively light weight and well-tuned chassis. It's easy to throw it into corners, and it feels confident and composed. The brakes are strong and responsive, providing plenty of stopping power. The overall driving experience is refined and enjoyable, making the A3 a great choice for both everyday driving and longer journeys.

One of the things that sets the A3 35 TFSI Sportback apart from its rivals is its level of refinement. The engine is smooth and quiet, and the cabin is well-insulated from road and wind noise. This makes it a comfortable car to drive, even on long journeys. The ride quality is also excellent, smoothing out bumps and potholes without feeling floaty.

The A3 is also packed with technology that enhances the driving experience. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring can help to make driving safer and more relaxing. The car also has a range of driving modes that allow you to customize the driving experience to your preferences. You can choose from modes like Comfort, Dynamic, and Efficiency, which adjust the engine, transmission, and steering settings to suit your driving style.

Is the Audi A3 35 TFSI Sportback Worth It?

So, after all that, is the Audi A3 35 TFSI Sportback worth it? The answer, as always, depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, if you're looking for a stylish, well-equipped, and fun-to-drive hatchback, then the A3 35 TFSI Sportback is definitely worth considering.

It offers a great blend of performance, fuel economy, comfort, and technology. The engine is peppy and efficient, the interior is stylish and well-appointed, and the driving experience is refined and enjoyable. It's also packed with features that enhance the driving experience and make it safer and more relaxing.

Of course, the A3 isn't perfect. The rear seat space is a bit limited, and the price can be a bit high, especially if you opt for some of the more expensive options. However, overall, the Audi A3 35 TFSI Sportback is a fantastic car that offers a lot for the money.

If you're considering buying one, I highly recommend taking it for a test drive. Get a feel for the engine, the handling, and the interior. See if it fits your needs and preferences. If it does, then you're likely to be very happy with your purchase.

Here's a quick recap of the pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Stylish design
  • Well-appointed interior
  • Peppy and efficient engine
  • Refined driving experience
  • Packed with technology

Cons:

  • Limited rear seat space
  • Can be expensive with options

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy an Audi A3 35 TFSI Sportback is a personal one. But I hope this review has given you a better understanding of the car and helped you to make an informed decision. Happy driving, folks!