Audi A3 diesel India review, test drive

The diesel Audi A3 sedan is a fantastic all-rounder and could just be the perfect step-on point to the luxury car ladder.

Published on Jul 10, 2014 06:38:00 PM

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Audi A3 diesel.

Make : Audi

Model : A3

We were the first to the drive the new petrol-powered Audi A3 1.8 TFSI and were mighty impressed by not just the strong performance on tap, but the overall package on offer. Now, we have come to Rajasthan to sample the important 141bhp 2.0-litre diesel version that’s likely to make up the lion’s share of the A3’s sales.

Looking at the Audi A3 sedan again has refreshed my memory about how good this Audi looks in the flesh. The crisp lines of this baby Audi look magnificent against the backdrop of the palace-like Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur; it’s definitely one of the athletic-looking Audis, especially in this S-line trim with the 17-inch rims.

Interior

Getting behind the wheel, the interiors are the same as on the petrol version and feel like a proper Audi. The powered front seats are quite accommodating and you don’t feel tired even after spending almost a full day in them. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels great to hold and doesn’t block your view of the technical-looking instrument cluster. The MMI screen pops up and the air-con vents are turbine-like; all these elements help create a contemporary cabin. However, the buttons are a bit too small and bunched together which makes the rest of the dash appear a bit too sparse.

But most importantly, the A3’s cabin sees use of quality materials and is well screwed together; it doesn’t make you feel short-changed. The interface’s integration with my android phone is great and it seamlessly handles music and calls. However, headroom at the rear is a bit too tight and taller passengers will have to crouch a bit to avoid contact with the roof. While average frames won't have a problem with space or thigh support, the front seats will need to be deftly adjusted to liberate enough knee room for taller folk. On the upside, it’s quite airy and you won’t feel claustrophobic here.