Not a fair review. A lot of aspects of A3 vs Cla are not covered. For example: - the rear passenger seats in cla are awful while a3's are good for even heavy people - cla might have a flashy dashboard but it is not easy to use. A3's ui is much better and easy - Not everyone pushes the paddle all the time. People do use these cars for getting around in the city. For city driving cla is crap with no pick up, while a3's comfort mode is pretty good for city driving.
Totally correct and there's even more, here in Europe A3 became more desired than A4 or A6 because its SLine and because its fun to drive, not easy to find a used unit. Of course its better than a CLA or VW equivalent
Exactly. Sry to say that. But these two talking shit. Comparing a 170HP car with 200HP car, great comparison and oh what a surprise the Mercedes is faster..Whats the point of a review if you compare 2 different cars, different egine power, differen options, different price because of the options. And the CLA is a coupe, a coupe is meant to be more sporty. The A3 is a sedan. Of course its less sporty. I hate such reviews. Youre review is based on personal preferences.
@@MH-wy9xb Dude, they just said the price is THE SAME. So for the same buck, Mercedes is delivering a better engine to you. And no, sorry to burst your bubble, but the A3 is not a sedan. Sure you can technically call it a "sedan" but we all know that a true sedan is the A4.
Oh shit bro... I found an even worse one but, Its just one even bigger dickhead bashing the car with his personal reference. Hate thoose kind of reviewers.
I don't know if I really agree with this review. After driving both myself I found that the CLA drove well in terms of dynamics but the ride was hard and it really felt like you were in a cheap Mercedes. On the other hand I found that the Audi feels more expensive than it is in terms of solidity smoothness and overall refinement, yet I agree its steering does not give a whole lot in terms of feedback. Perhaps the answer to this video is simply the A3 2.0T Quattro which is properly quick and feels more planted than this base 1.8T
NOT EVERY CAR WAS INTENDED TO BE A “DRIVER’S CAR!” They are missing that the intent of the 1.8 L option is for a more comfortable experience. Obviously the AWD version is the better choice for people who enjoy a more sporty drive. People buy based on the options they have, not based on some kind of front wheel drive technically. I generally love their reviews, but this comparison makes no sense.
my A3 is getting delivered next week !! i fell in love with it ! the cla was bland with the interior imo , the Audis is minimalistic but elegant at the same time . BTW im gonna add some elwire in the door inserts and hello mini A6 ! im excited!
Could not agree with you less on this one. After checking out many of its competitors I finally settled on and bought the 20 17 A3. It is awesome. And beautiful
@@pquumm I feel you man, same experience with mini Cooper s 2015, why premium cars are so unreliable? I'm trying to make my mind between a3 and series 2 (220)
If you are to get an Audi, get it with Quattro. This car with a 2.0T is a lot more fun than the 1.8 FWD. Save your pennies and get it with Quattro. Or else just buy a GTI or something else with FWD.
as a VW Touran driver considering getting a 4 to 5 seater saloon possibly A3 I could tell the review was quite poor, Audi while having a reputation for speed are actually competing on other levels too, including passenger comfort.
Bang on in my opinion--if you're going to get this BASE MODEL A3, save yourself a wad of cash and buy a Golf instead ...or, for similar money, get into the far superior GTI.
I agree. The only goodie on the base A3 is the MMI unit and the 4G. The GTI by comparison has the same engine, same platform, is lower, has a tuned suspension, has a larger turbo and the inside isn't the latest-and-greatest but it's far from bad.
I just bought a3 almost in full config which was still 3000$ cheaper than GTI. It looks better outsight inside only thing which has GTI is stronger engine but looks and feels like a cheap car, I mean materials, interior and seats. I am telling it because I went to check both. Vw felt same like my friends hyundai or fiat.
Roman Macák Will have to agree to disagree having driven both cars as well--the VW feels just as good to me as the Audi and certainly not like a Hyundai...enjoy your new A3!
it's worth noting that for a car enthusiast picking between these two cars (assuming that would happen), it would be better to go for the a3 instead of the cla. why, you may ask? well, because for $600, you can get an APR tune that doesn't void the warranty and adds almost 25% more horsepower and as much as 50% more torque. my buddy has an apr stage 1 tune on his mk5 gti, and the before/after difference is like night and day. for $600 and no mechanical modifications, his car went from 7+ seconds 0-60 to a 5.8 second run. for that reason alone, any vw product is worth considering for an enthusiast. no doubt that tunes will exist for the merc too, but they probably won't be as potent or as cheap.
I thought I was the only one thinking that. Thanks for mentioning it. The simplicity of the A3's interior won me over (not to the extent of wanting the car). The only problem there is the quality of the materials which even through the lens of camera looks cheap and not upscale. In any case, I'd always rather sacrifice some gimmicky features for a simpler interior and higher quality materials.
Im driving the s line sport package 2.0t tfsi and its great. Guys drive tge 2.0t and you will change you mind. Its a fast and nimble car. 0 to 60 in 5.4 seconds sounds better
I laughed at 6:39 when Todd stated the A3 was the girl that your parents like but you're like 'meh'. While I'm not seeing any girls, this is EXACTLY the feeling I'm receiving from my own parents. I personally would want to get a Lexus IS or Cadillac ATS, but for some reason (perhaps because a certain cousin purchased one of these & my father driven it and loved it) they want to pressure me into getting this car (in 2.0T quattro trim).
Lack of power?? Really? Just think that in Europe, this car will be mainly sold with the 105hp engine, and it's already too powerful for speed limits. I really don't understand 'mericans !
I wonder at this price point, if I were to get a base CLA or A3. Why wouldn't I go for a Fully loaded Mazda3 instead? What is the EDD opinions on this?
I checked out these car myself out of curiosity. To me, base CLA and A3 do not deliver what Mer & Audi are really good at. They are only slightly better in terms of interior material and refinement, yet there is a big price delta between them. At this price point, I can get a Mazda3 with so many options including Rader cruise control, HUD, city brakes system and LED W/ HID that turns with steering(the Mer at this price don't even have projector light) as for performance, they all seems to be pretty close to each others. these are just all my 2cent, only looking for a discussion, please ignore any attacking comments. I am not biased toward Mazda because I drive a mazdaspeed. I would NOT buy a 30k mazda3, at 30k, I would either be in a ST, WRX or a full load mazdaspeed3 with some cash for mod already.
The wheels are all the difference. Autotraders review sold me. This review is pretty bland. And the fact that you mention the honda accord coupe?? Ok... Got it. Most will go w/ the 2.0 quattro off top any way.
Have you driven an A3? have you driven any other Audi or BMW? The A3 FWD drives like a VW, it is not deserving of the 4 rings. Even the A3 "Quattro" (which isn't really Quattro) doesn't drive that nicely. The BMW 2 series is leagues ahead of the baby Audi.
I don't know if they are being sarcastic or just ignorant. This A3 'sedan' IS a VW Jetta for Pete's sake! Only this one has more padding and better interior, but everyone on this earth that is into cars knows that. More over, this 'version' is not the real A3 as it is meant to be, stylistically and dynamically. In EU at least it is known (for years) that the A3 is not in the same class as the higher models and that is by design. It never was. What it is known for is that it is a higher-end Golf if the normal one isn't posh enough for you. Nobody is pitting it against a Merc or a purpose-built sports car/coupe/xyz, or even an Audi A4/5...
I'm in the States and I have a 2013 Audi A3 2.0 tfsi fwd only and it's dsg it's a four dour and I have it tuned and a couple of goodies but nothing for suspension I think my car handle's great yes there is understeer but that's not really noticeable unless you're getting on it for a fwd car mine seems like a dive bomb in the corners maybe it's because it's a hatchback but mine is planted
Though the interior plastics quality is that of Fisher-Price and it's a car built in Mexico / for the developing markets. The standard Jetta was a sub-$15k car at the time, competing with cars in the category below it, and all the money for the GLI went into the engine and some other performance knick-knacks.
Should've gone with the quattro. So what if it's AWD, that's VW AG's most refined drivetrain and its kinda pointless to go for a premium german marque if you're gonna stick with FWD.
You'll like the Mercedes right up to the point where something breaks and you have to get a second mortgage on your house to fix it. Opel might not be a sexy German brand, but their parts aren't that expensive and they last 2 to 3 times longer than the big 3. Is an Audi or Merc better? Yes, for the first 60k miles.
They should have waited to do the 2.0l, because the other to cars in this comparison, use all wheels to drive!!!. But they were going on prices too. Still though the other two cars are at there premium package, right. And to me the A3 is basically a jetta/passat with audi features
A Ford Focus 2.0 with manual transmission and sedan body shape has got 160 HP and its much more fun to drive than the Audi A3 almost as comfortable as Focuses suspension is brilliant taut but not stiff and bone jarring like Mazda 3 2.5 sport and yet has way more feel,more connected than Honda Civic Si as well, Also the Focuses DCT is almost like the Mercedes Auto tranny, great up shifts but poor down shifts and in sport Focuses DCT is jerky while shifting but fast enough best 0-60 time in manual Focus with TCS off is 7.6 s and with TCS ON its 8.2s, 0-100 kmph is 8.6 with TCS off and 9.0s with TCS ON Sure not as high as A3 but way better drivers car and dosent sacrifice comfort like Mazda 3
Man.. if you just upgraded to the 2.0T it would have still cost less than the CLA and would have beat it in every category. But of course, that would not have been fair
It's no surprise that the A3 basically feels like a Jetta. They share the same platform (although that's a relative statement given that all new VW-group transverse mounted models use the MQB) Underneath they are essentially the same. If you want to pay more for a badge and some nicer switches, go ahead and buy one. BTW: great review, guys!
Your review simply stunk. A 1.8 instead of 2.0 turbo for review, how lame. The transmission with the 2.0 is one of best in the Audi line, according to Brian Cooley from cnet and I have to agree. You seemed to have made up up your mind about this car before you started the review. I drove this car in the 2.0 version and the ride and performance were good. Brian Cooley from cnet liked this car and he doesn't like many of them. After driving this car, I'll accept his more unbiased point of few. All you did in this review was complain and I found some of your criticism of the vehicle unwarranted and prejudicial and quite annoying and for the most part unfounded and way too subjective. Look for another day job !!!
These guys are right, Audi base line model are just down right dull. A3, A4 is just your typical under steering front heavy cars with no personality, and I doubt that will change any time soon. I own both 335i and A3, it's obvious which is the wife's car.
It sounds a lot like how my Jetta was. Buyers beware! Jettas have electrical problems once the warranty runs out. I hope that's not the case with the A3 but having sat in the A3 I won't hold my breathe. It is a Jetta in drag.
I have seen both and while I not a big fan of either, the GTI is a much better value. I couldn't discern anything better about the Audi interior and while neither excited me to drive, the GTI was slightly more entertaining to drive.
Familyguy1 which really is too bad, cuz hatchbacks are super cool for sure. I mean honestly, I'd probably never own either because of the reliability (or lack thereof) and maintenance costs on German vehicles, but given the choice I'd definitely take the GTI. If someone didn't want a hatchback they could get the Jetta GLI, same engine and similar suspension as the GTI in a sedan body.
I'm a huge audi fan. But in all honesty the A3 was and still isn't a true Audi. With its transverse engine layout and haldex diff the A3 is more akin to a vw jetta, than the B5 A4 its supposed to replace.
170hp out of a 4 valve DOHC 1.8L Turbo..... what the fuck? Toyota managed 190hp out of a NA 1.8 over a decade ago. Doesn't matter if it has 200lb/ft, that amount of power is not acceptable in a 30k car.
Well but the torque does matter since that is specifically what separates a high strung NA 1.8 like the one in the Celica GTS and the turbo 1.8 in this A3. The difference is everyday drivability. The Celica was basically like an Integra GSR or Type R, because of the multiple cam profiles. To get to the power you had to push it past 4k RPM at which point it would switch over to the hot side of the cams and give you more high end power, but the tradeoff was very little torque. That's not an engine you want in a sedate family sedan like an A3, because you have to wring the absolute piss out of it to even get to that 190 HP, while this turbo 1.8 has 170 HP - and MUCH more torque - available at lower RPMs. It's all about the application.
Vernon Price I understand that but 170hp from a turbo 1.8L 4 and only 200lb-ft is still pathetic, especially for $30,000. That's less than 100hp/L and its not even relatively reliable when compared to its competitors.
This review is old, so, I'm sure it doesn't matter anymore but, I have to disagree with you on this. Quickly, before I proceed further, I don't live in the US; my car is for the European market. 1. It feels like an upmarket Golf and doesn't feel much different from a VW. I have to disagree. The reason I recently traded in my daily driver Passat was due to the refinement and quality of the vehicle. The doors open and close nicer. The leather feels better and, the cabin feels premium. VW may be nice, but the Audi is slightly above. 2. If you have owned a prestige car, you'll expect a little more. Growing up with premium Mercedes and S-Class's in the family, I don't feel the A3 to be lacking in that department. Again, it feels premium. In comparison, an A1 doesn't. For me, this generation A3 doesn't feel like it's trying to be something it's not. Audi seems to know the market quite well and, overall, it's a good product. If you want a more premium prestige vehicle, move up to an A4 or 3 series and C-Class.
Yeah, but it'll cost 10,000+ to get out back into shape, not to mention it'll cost 5,000 to bring the stereo and tech up to date plus the cost of maintenance...etc.
Please all other reviewers, thank these guys for their great work and stop complaining. These reviews are wonderfully objective/subjective, and exactly what we need to make hard decisions when spending our cash!
Sorry guys, while I agree with just about everything you said about the car, this review feels like you mailed it in. First time I've felt that way about any of your reviews.
I'm guessing that's probably because they felt that Audi mailed it in with the A3. Hard to be enthusiastic about a car that doesn't make you enthusiastic.
+vh9network I said used. I never buy new. Used B8 S4's are selling for high 20's to low 30's right now, depending on milage. Give it another five years or so and they will be even cheaper.
Ryan L My bad, I over looked that. For me I just can't get into the whole used buying. Most people sell off there cars as it approach original manufacture warranty, and generally more issues are likely to come up by then. The beauty of what I like about car shopping new is that you can custom order a car to your liking. Find a used B8 S4 fully equipped with all the options and decent mileage will be a hard find.
And yet, the total cost of ownership of the S4 will still push itself higher than the A3. The cost of maintaining a $50,000 car doesn't magically go down because you bought it used. The biggest mistake people make with German luxury cars is to assume since they depreciate fast, they can afford more car just by letting someone else take the depreciation and then buying used. When the maintenance, insurance, and repairs costs come around, that cheap S4 wasn't so cheap after all. I think everyone else already knows the can buy more car used at this price point or a bigger, better equipped new mid-sized car, mustang, CUV or whatever you would prefer to own. Pick your poison. Obviously, this isn't it.
+Matthew Gaines True, but would you rather spend the money on maintaining an S4 or spend it outright on a new A3? For me it is the S4. You could buy a new VW for a lot less than that A3, and it's basically the same car. My point is, if you want an Audi, buy a REAL Audi. That A3 is nothing but the name. P.S. I bought a B6 S4 almost 2 years ago for $13k. It runs great with no issues. Yes, it is expensive on upkeep, but I knew that going in.
It's ridiculous that a reviewer would openly admit admiring "German Cars". So no need to trust your review of German cars since you come in thinking their great. My Civic Si would crush this little tin can. Thought about buying this car until I realized how unreliable these cars are and overpriced they can be.
Would never buy this car. Seems so bland and boring. There are much better options on the market. CLA over A3 any day tho. Wait till BMW reveals the 1 series too....
It's unfortunate that the A3 is sort of a performance lame duck, isn't it? In fwd configuration, for anyone who cares about driving, the GTI/GLI are vastly superior for less money. In awd configuration the WRX/STI/Golf R are clearly the better value. If you really think about it it, this explains the disappointing handling characteristics... Audi realized they aren't going to pull in a single value/performance driver away from the aforementioned vehicles. So they're targeting the 4 cylinder Camry/Accord/Altima buyers who are ready to go upscale. In the end, although it may be disappointing to us, this is how they will sell vastly more A3's.
I agree, these cars are targeted at misinformed people, who would just be happy to own a Mercedes or Audi, but won't realize that they are given the weakest interior from top refinement car companies. I would never buy a base model, of a Audi or Mercedes, but since the top models wouldn't be at my price range, i'll look elsewhere.
Not a fair review. A lot of aspects of A3 vs Cla are not covered. For example:
- the rear passenger seats in cla are awful while a3's are good for even heavy people
- cla might have a flashy dashboard but it is not easy to use. A3's ui is much better and easy
- Not everyone pushes the paddle all the time. People do use these cars for getting around in the city. For city driving cla is crap with no pick up, while a3's comfort mode is pretty good for city driving.
Totally correct and there's even more, here in Europe A3 became more desired than A4 or A6 because its SLine and because its fun to drive, not easy to find a used unit. Of course its better than a CLA or VW equivalent
They just have no idea, do they? The a3's interior is leagues ahead of the tacky and impractical CLA's.
Exactly. Sry to say that. But these two talking shit. Comparing a 170HP car with 200HP car, great comparison and oh what a surprise the Mercedes is faster..Whats the point of a review if you compare 2 different cars, different egine power, differen options, different price because of the options. And the CLA is a coupe, a coupe is meant to be more sporty. The A3 is a sedan. Of course its less sporty. I hate such reviews. Youre review is based on personal preferences.
@@MH-wy9xb Dude, they just said the price is THE SAME. So for the same buck, Mercedes is delivering a better engine to you. And no, sorry to burst your bubble, but the A3 is not a sedan. Sure you can technically call it a "sedan" but we all know that a true sedan is the A4.
So far, this is the only negative ish review I found of the A3.
Daryl Chiew agreed!!!
Oh shit bro... I found an even worse one but, Its just one even bigger dickhead bashing the car with his personal reference. Hate thoose kind of reviewers.
Is it cause it’s not the 2.0 version?
I don't know if I really agree with this review. After driving both myself I found that the CLA drove well in terms of dynamics but the ride was hard and it really felt like you were in a cheap Mercedes. On the other hand I found that the Audi feels more expensive than it is in terms of solidity smoothness and overall refinement, yet I agree its steering does not give a whole lot in terms of feedback. Perhaps the answer to this video is simply the A3 2.0T Quattro which is properly quick and feels more planted than this base 1.8T
NOT EVERY CAR WAS INTENDED TO BE A “DRIVER’S CAR!” They are missing that the intent of the 1.8 L option is for a more comfortable experience. Obviously the AWD version is the better choice for people who enjoy a more sporty drive. People buy based on the options they have, not based on some kind of front wheel drive technically. I generally love their reviews, but this comparison makes no sense.
They compaire 3 fwd cars thats the point FWD
my A3 is getting delivered next week !! i fell in love with it ! the cla was bland with the interior imo , the Audis is minimalistic but elegant at the same time . BTW im gonna add some elwire in the door inserts and hello mini A6 ! im excited!
Could not agree with you less on this one. After checking out many of its competitors I finally settled on and bought the 20 17 A3.
It is awesome. And beautiful
Hey how has your experience been with your car? Comfort, performance and reliability??
@@pquumm I feel you man, same experience with mini Cooper s 2015, why premium cars are so unreliable? I'm trying to make my mind between a3 and series 2 (220)
@@pquumm thanks man and good luck with your car
If you are to get an Audi, get it with Quattro. This car with a 2.0T is a lot more fun than the 1.8 FWD. Save your pennies and get it with Quattro. Or else just buy a GTI or something else with FWD.
Ok, watched the first 2 parts, now can't wait for the third... you guys do this to me every time... great stuff!
as a VW Touran driver considering getting a 4 to 5 seater saloon possibly A3 I could tell the review was quite poor, Audi while having a reputation for speed are actually competing on other levels too, including passenger comfort.
Bang on in my opinion--if you're going to get this BASE MODEL A3, save yourself a wad of cash and buy a Golf instead ...or, for similar money, get into the far superior GTI.
I agree. The only goodie on the base A3 is the MMI unit and the 4G. The GTI by comparison has the same engine, same platform, is lower, has a tuned suspension, has a larger turbo and the inside isn't the latest-and-greatest but it's far from bad.
I just bought a3 almost in full config which was still 3000$ cheaper than GTI. It looks better outsight inside only thing which has GTI is stronger engine but looks and feels like a cheap car, I mean materials, interior and seats. I am telling it because I went to check both. Vw felt same like my friends hyundai or fiat.
Roman Macák Will have to agree to disagree having driven both cars as well--the VW feels just as good to me as the Audi and certainly not like a Hyundai...enjoy your new A3!
it's worth noting that for a car enthusiast picking between these two cars (assuming that would happen), it would be better to go for the a3 instead of the cla. why, you may ask?
well, because for $600, you can get an APR tune that doesn't void the warranty and adds almost 25% more horsepower and as much as 50% more torque.
my buddy has an apr stage 1 tune on his mk5 gti, and the before/after difference is like night and day. for $600 and no mechanical modifications, his car went from 7+ seconds 0-60 to a 5.8 second run. for that reason alone, any vw product is worth considering for an enthusiast.
no doubt that tunes will exist for the merc too, but they probably won't be as potent or as cheap.
Damn that entry level A3, I think y'all should have had the VW Jetta GLI there for comparison.
This is the first review I've watched here the A3 wasn't praised from start to finish
better than a VW? but it is a VW....but i do like that interior, i love how basic it is, i don't know why but it looks so darn good to me
I thought I was the only one thinking that. Thanks for mentioning it. The simplicity of the A3's interior won me over (not to the extent of wanting the car). The only problem there is the quality of the materials which even through the lens of camera looks cheap and not upscale. In any case, I'd always rather sacrifice some gimmicky features for a simpler interior and higher quality materials.
Im driving the s line sport package 2.0t tfsi and its great. Guys drive tge 2.0t and you will change you mind. Its a fast and nimble car. 0 to 60 in 5.4 seconds sounds better
I laughed at 6:39 when Todd stated the A3 was the girl that your parents like but you're like 'meh'. While I'm not seeing any girls, this is EXACTLY the feeling I'm receiving from my own parents. I personally would want to get a Lexus IS or Cadillac ATS, but for some reason (perhaps because a certain cousin purchased one of these & my father driven it and loved it) they want to pressure me into getting this car (in 2.0T quattro trim).
Lack of power?? Really? Just think that in Europe, this car will be mainly sold with the 105hp engine, and it's already too powerful for speed limits. I really don't understand 'mericans !
I wonder at this price point, if I were to get a base CLA or A3. Why wouldn't I go for a Fully loaded Mazda3 instead? What is the EDD opinions on this?
instead of logic, some people will buy these cars due to their branding and the meaning of their branding.
Mazda is shit
grabir01 Stfu
at least tell me why it is shit. Learn how to give comment and respect others opinions
I checked out these car myself out of curiosity. To me, base CLA and A3 do not deliver what Mer & Audi are really good at. They are only slightly better in terms of interior material and refinement, yet there is a big price delta between them. At this price point, I can get a Mazda3 with so many options including Rader cruise control, HUD, city brakes system and LED W/ HID that turns with steering(the Mer at this price don't even have projector light)
as for performance, they all seems to be pretty close to each others.
these are just all my 2cent, only looking for a discussion, please ignore any attacking comments. I am not biased toward Mazda because I drive a mazdaspeed. I would NOT buy a 30k mazda3, at 30k, I would either be in a ST, WRX or a full load mazdaspeed3 with some cash for mod already.
I think that you guys should do another video with these two, but with fully optioned out models.
The wheels are all the difference. Autotraders review sold me. This review is pretty bland. And the fact that you mention the honda accord coupe?? Ok... Got it. Most will go w/ the 2.0 quattro off top any way.
How do they disrespect this car especially the interior? I watched so many reviews and they are the only people who are negative. Sorry fellas
Have you driven an A3? have you driven any other Audi or BMW? The A3 FWD drives like a VW, it is not deserving of the 4 rings. Even the A3 "Quattro" (which isn't really Quattro) doesn't drive that nicely. The BMW 2 series is leagues ahead of the baby Audi.
I don't know if they are being sarcastic or just ignorant. This A3 'sedan' IS a VW Jetta for Pete's sake! Only this one has more padding and better interior, but everyone on this earth that is into cars knows that.
More over, this 'version' is not the real A3 as it is meant to be, stylistically and dynamically. In EU at least it is known (for years) that the A3 is not in the same class as the higher models and that is by design. It never was.
What it is known for is that it is a higher-end Golf if the normal one isn't posh enough for you. Nobody is pitting it against a Merc or a purpose-built sports car/coupe/xyz, or even an Audi A4/5...
+madant1977 do u like sniffing glue? This car smokes the cla
I'm in the States and I have a 2013 Audi A3 2.0 tfsi fwd only and it's dsg it's a four dour and I have it tuned and a couple of goodies but nothing for suspension I think my car handle's great yes there is understeer but that's not really noticeable unless you're getting on it for a fwd car mine seems like a dive bomb in the corners maybe it's because it's a hatchback but mine is planted
Skip the A3 unless you're looking for quattro & opt for the 2016 GLI. Similar appointments, it's fast, sharp looks, & overall better value for money.
Though the interior plastics quality is that of Fisher-Price and it's a car built in Mexico / for the developing markets. The standard Jetta was a sub-$15k car at the time, competing with cars in the category below it, and all the money for the GLI went into the engine and some other performance knick-knacks.
great video guys. looking forward to seeing your thoughts on the accord coupe
That was a LET DOWN car in that configuration. I was shocked how short this review is. I love the bigger AUDI's and would love to have a A7
Should've gone with the quattro. So what if it's AWD, that's VW AG's most refined drivetrain and its kinda pointless to go for a premium german marque if you're gonna stick with FWD.
The "Quattro" A3 is not really Quattro, and it is certainly not VAG's most refined drivetrain
You'll like the Mercedes right up to the point where something breaks and you have to get a second mortgage on your house to fix it. Opel might not be a sexy German brand, but their parts aren't that expensive and they last 2 to 3 times longer than the big 3. Is an Audi or Merc better? Yes, for the first 60k miles.
They should have waited to do the 2.0l, because the other to cars in this comparison, use all wheels to drive!!!. But they were going on prices too. Still though the other two cars are at there premium package, right. And to me the A3 is basically a jetta/passat with audi features
A Ford Focus 2.0 with manual transmission and sedan body shape has got 160 HP and its much more fun to drive than the Audi A3 almost as comfortable as Focuses suspension is brilliant taut but not stiff and bone jarring like Mazda 3 2.5 sport and yet has way more feel,more connected than Honda Civic Si as well,
Also the Focuses DCT is almost like the Mercedes Auto tranny, great up shifts but poor down shifts and in sport Focuses DCT is jerky while shifting but fast enough
best 0-60 time in manual Focus with TCS off is 7.6 s and with TCS ON its 8.2s, 0-100 kmph is 8.6 with TCS off and 9.0s with TCS ON
Sure not as high as A3 but way better drivers car and dosent sacrifice comfort like Mazda 3
If you want a FWD A3, just get a GLI. You get way more for your dollar
Man.. if you just upgraded to the 2.0T it would have still cost less than the CLA and would have beat it in every category. But of course, that would not have been fair
After you guys are finished reviewing the accord coupe, please review a 2013/14 genesis coupe 3.8
I know you guys reviewed the WRX, but l hope you guys can review the STI, and maybe compare it to a used EVO X, or maybe the previous STIs
It's no surprise that the A3 basically feels like a Jetta. They share the same platform (although that's a relative statement given that all new VW-group transverse mounted models use the MQB) Underneath they are essentially the same. If you want to pay more for a badge and some nicer switches, go ahead and buy one. BTW: great review, guys!
Your review simply stunk. A 1.8 instead of 2.0 turbo for review, how lame. The transmission with the 2.0 is one of best in the Audi line, according to Brian Cooley from cnet and I have to agree. You seemed to have made up up your mind about this car before you started the review. I drove this car in the 2.0 version and the ride and performance were good. Brian Cooley from cnet liked this car and he doesn't like many of them. After driving this car, I'll accept his more unbiased point of few. All you did in this review was complain and I found some of your criticism of the vehicle unwarranted and prejudicial and quite annoying and for the most part unfounded and way too subjective. Look for another day job !!!
Gen 1.5 Acura TSX for the win
These guys are right, Audi base line model are just down right dull. A3, A4 is just your typical under steering front heavy cars with no personality, and I doubt that will change any time soon. I own both 335i and A3, it's obvious which is the wife's car.
How do you even compare a3 to 335i.....
It sounds a lot like how my Jetta was. Buyers beware! Jettas have electrical problems once the warranty runs out. I hope that's not the case with the A3 but having sat in the A3 I won't hold my breathe. It is a Jetta in drag.
I've been out in this as well as the 2015 GTI. I'd get the GTI. If I were to get the A3 I'd wait and get the S4. Anyway....
Am I the only one who desperately wants Paul and Todd to review a supercar????
If I really wanted an A3, I'd probably just buy a GTI, similar chassis, bigger engine, and likely better resale and less depreciation.
And also its a hatch, since I believe the A3 does not come with a hatch anymore...
I have seen both and while I not a big fan of either, the GTI is a much better value. I couldn't discern anything better about the Audi interior and while neither excited me to drive, the GTI was slightly more entertaining to drive.
Familyguy1
which really is too bad, cuz hatchbacks are super cool for sure. I mean honestly, I'd probably never own either because of the reliability (or lack thereof) and maintenance costs on German vehicles, but given the choice I'd definitely take the GTI. If someone didn't want a hatchback they could get the Jetta GLI, same engine and similar suspension as the GTI in a sedan body.
So TRUE!!!! Besides, the GTI definitely is way more fun to drive than this A3... :D
echtogammut I've priced them both with nav and leather and they were within $1-2k of each other. Get the Audi if you want AWD or a "cooler" badge.
I'm a huge audi fan. But in all honesty the A3 was and still isn't a true Audi. With its transverse engine layout and haldex diff the A3 is more akin to a vw jetta, than the B5 A4 its supposed to replace.
170hp out of a 4 valve DOHC 1.8L Turbo..... what the fuck? Toyota managed 190hp out of a NA 1.8 over a decade ago. Doesn't matter if it has 200lb/ft, that amount of power is not acceptable in a 30k car.
Well but the torque does matter since that is specifically what separates a high strung NA 1.8 like the one in the Celica GTS and the turbo 1.8 in this A3. The difference is everyday drivability. The Celica was basically like an Integra GSR or Type R, because of the multiple cam profiles. To get to the power you had to push it past 4k RPM at which point it would switch over to the hot side of the cams and give you more high end power, but the tradeoff was very little torque.
That's not an engine you want in a sedate family sedan like an A3, because you have to wring the absolute piss out of it to even get to that 190 HP, while this turbo 1.8 has 170 HP - and MUCH more torque - available at lower RPMs. It's all about the application.
Vernon Price I understand that but 170hp from a turbo 1.8L 4 and only 200lb-ft is still pathetic, especially for $30,000. That's less than 100hp/L and its not even relatively reliable when compared to its competitors.
This review is old, so, I'm sure it doesn't matter anymore but, I have to disagree with you on this. Quickly, before I proceed further, I don't live in the US; my car is for the European market.
1. It feels like an upmarket Golf and doesn't feel much different from a VW. I have to disagree. The reason I recently traded in my daily driver Passat was due to the refinement and quality of the vehicle. The doors open and close nicer. The leather feels better and, the cabin feels premium. VW may be nice, but the Audi is slightly above.
2. If you have owned a prestige car, you'll expect a little more.
Growing up with premium Mercedes and S-Class's in the family, I don't feel the A3 to be lacking in that department. Again, it feels premium. In comparison, an A1 doesn't.
For me, this generation A3 doesn't feel like it's trying to be something it's not. Audi seems to know the market quite well and, overall, it's a good product. If you want a more premium prestige vehicle, move up to an A4 or 3 series and C-Class.
You two clowns are the ONLY 2 reviewers that pans the Audi A3.
They never compare the car to what it is. It's the cheapest Audi it's not gonna be like the A5
Can you do a review between Cadillac cts v sport and bmw 550 or Cadillac esclade and lexus lx570
2000 bmw 740i sports package, pick one up for $4-8K best damn car for the money.
Yeah, but it'll cost 10,000+ to get out back into shape, not to mention it'll cost 5,000 to bring the stereo and tech up to date plus the cost of maintenance...etc.
Can you guys do a e9x m3 vs w204 c63 review?
Please all other reviewers, thank these guys for their great work and stop complaining. These reviews are wonderfully objective/subjective, and exactly what we need to make hard decisions when spending our cash!
Some of the facts in this video are actually a bit skewed.
I think that 1.8T is from GTI three generations ago.
You guys should do the Lexus lpa
So, it is basically a Corolla with leather seats.
Do you only buy cars for racing?
The 1.8l good for a first car??
Patrick Crawford If you're planning on the 1.8T, I would save the $ and get a Jetta (which post 2014, has the same engine).
Trades46 oh sweet
Sorry guys, while I agree with just about everything you said about the car, this review feels like you mailed it in. First time I've felt that way about any of your reviews.
I'm guessing that's probably because they felt that Audi mailed it in with the A3. Hard to be enthusiastic about a car that doesn't make you enthusiastic.
at this point id buy a vw golf or jetta for 10k less and have the same engine and be able to have it with a manual, a3 you cant get a manual
what happened to the hatchback version?
The hatchback version will only be available as the electric "e-tron" trim, later on.
For around the same money you could get a used B8 S4. Why would you even consider buying a new A3?
+Ryan L
A base B8 S4 is going to cost you $49,200 new, a base A3 cost $30,900. How is that around the same money?
+vh9network
I said used. I never buy new. Used B8 S4's are selling for high 20's to low 30's right now, depending on milage. Give it another five years or so and they will be even cheaper.
Ryan L
My bad, I over looked that.
For me I just can't get into the whole used buying.
Most people sell off there cars as it approach original manufacture warranty, and generally more issues are likely to come up by then.
The beauty of what I like about car shopping new is that you can custom order a car to your liking.
Find a used B8 S4 fully equipped with all the options and decent mileage will be a hard find.
And yet, the total cost of ownership of the S4 will still push itself higher than the A3. The cost of maintaining a $50,000 car doesn't magically go down because you bought it used. The biggest mistake people make with German luxury cars is to assume since they depreciate fast, they can afford more car just by letting someone else take the depreciation and then buying used. When the maintenance, insurance, and repairs costs come around, that cheap S4 wasn't so cheap after all. I think everyone else already knows the can buy more car used at this price point or a bigger, better equipped new mid-sized car, mustang, CUV or whatever you would prefer to own. Pick your poison. Obviously, this isn't it.
+Matthew Gaines
True, but would you rather spend the money on maintaining an S4 or spend it outright on a new A3? For me it is the S4.
You could buy a new VW for a lot less than that A3, and it's basically the same car. My point is, if you want an Audi, buy a REAL Audi. That A3 is nothing but the name.
P.S. I bought a B6 S4 almost 2 years ago for $13k. It runs great with no issues. Yes, it is expensive on upkeep, but I knew that going in.
video paid by mercedes
Written by a Audi fanboy.
my vote is for Mercedes CLA is deraivers car means nice car a bater car.
At least they don't charge 4 bucks a month
Better than VW ? We can only hope.. lol
8P all the way!!!
compare a3 cla and vw gli
Where is part 3 ? @everydaydriver
That is what I'm saying
Please stop saying "price point". You guys obviously don't know what the term means. Just say "price".
Not much different than the A4 from 1997 or 98.
It's ridiculous that a reviewer would openly admit admiring "German Cars". So no need to trust your review of German cars since you come in thinking their great. My Civic Si would crush this little tin can. Thought about buying this car until I realized how unreliable these cars are and overpriced they can be.
Would never buy this car. Seems so bland and boring. There are much better options on the market. CLA over A3 any day tho. Wait till BMW reveals the 1 series too....
not a fan of this car. for the same money you can get a gli which is a better car IMO
i hope someday Toyota will buy Audi and make it an car not an crapwagen...
It's unfortunate that the A3 is sort of a performance lame duck, isn't it?
In fwd configuration, for anyone who cares about driving, the GTI/GLI are vastly superior for less money. In awd configuration the WRX/STI/Golf R are clearly the better value.
If you really think about it it, this explains the disappointing handling characteristics... Audi realized they aren't going to pull in a single value/performance driver away from the aforementioned vehicles. So they're targeting the 4 cylinder Camry/Accord/Altima buyers who are ready to go upscale.
In the end, although it may be disappointing to us, this is how they will sell vastly more A3's.
cla is better
Looks like a Passat.. with a worse interior.
This car makes me puke
taught like a taiger?
Subaru wrx wins.
As much as I love Subaru's (and own a WRX for that matter) you can't compare a WRX to any of these cars.
Matt Carlos By that, I hope you mean that they are apple, and oranges
The WRX is a drivers car. These are simple commuter cars with nice interiors and badges that make people feel successful in life.
I agree, these cars are targeted at misinformed people, who would just be happy to own a Mercedes or Audi, but won't realize that they are given the weakest interior from top refinement car companies. I would never buy a base model, of a Audi or Mercedes, but since the top models wouldn't be at my price range, i'll look elsewhere.
Matt Carlos really? i dont think the interiors are that nice
It's kinda ugly.
This is a chicks car
first
Audi looks so booring plz