Mazda3 2,0 Individual (2009) Driving Impression

In many ways (and rather ironically) we can thank the quirky and borderline radical RX-8 for the re-emergence of Mazda as a serious player in the mainstream car market. Prior to RX-8, Mazda was not only churning out bland products by the thousands, but also entangled in a badge-engineering web with Ford. It took the dramatic RX-8, complete with its rotary engine and bizarre suicide-door layout, to shake Mazda from its slumber. Since then, every new Mazda product has been a significant improvement on what had gone before, and each model has brought verve and energy to their respective market segments. The original Mazda3 was an example of this, but now the second-generation version has arrived. Can Mazda stay the course, or will it once more be doomed to play in the shadows?

Sharp-suited looks for Mazda3

In sedan form the new Mazda3 is a striking machine, reminding strongly of its bigger sibling, the Mazda6. The Mazda3 boasts quite an aggressive front-end, and the curves above the front wheelarches are pure RX-8. At the rear, the bumper juts out quite far, which looks a bit odd, and the rear lamps are clear. Riding on large 17-inch alloy wheels and boasting a sunroof as standard, the “3” looks both sporty and upmarket. A similar approach is evident inside, but it takes a while to appreciate the design effort and the depth of the quality, because at first glance it looks a bit “shiny” and overdone. The instrumentation is excellent, though – two deep-set dials that remind of the set-up usually found in powerful sportscars – and the leather-wrapped steering wheel is very nice to hold.

The poor first impression is really the result of a lack of coherency in the selection of trim. The largest part of the facia is made from a high-quality “soft” plastic, and there are neat leather inserts on the doors etc., but in between all of this are also some shiny, hard plastics that feel out of place in this cabin. Furthermore, the design lacks flow, and this has placed trim materials of varying quality next to one another. Spend some time in the cabin, however, and these concerns start to fade, because in reality the quality is excellent, and the Mazda3 boasts some very neat touches, including very cool “mood” lighting in the footwell. Another example, however, of the lack of finer detail is the jarring positioning of two digital displays of different colours next to each other on top of the facia. But, overall, the pros outweigh the cons and the driver in particular will really enjoy the Mazda3’s driver-centric design – the steering wheel boasts generous rake/reach adjustment and the seat features height-adjustment, too.

Things are not quite as rosy in the rear, though. The wheelbase of 2 640 mm is about average for this class, but the slope of the rear window and large boot (430 L) have forced Mazda’s designers to push the rear seats forward, and this has impinged on legroom. Still, smaller adults and kids won’t find much reason to complain – the seats are certainly comfortable. In terms of standard features, though, the Mazda scores very high marks, with leather upholstery, climate control, auto wipers, cruise control, keyless entry and a premium audio system with a Bose subwoofer all being part of the deal. The safety package consists of 8 airbags and ABS with EBD. Unfortunately there is no electronic stability system.

Good performance/economy balance

Powering this version of the Mazda3 is a 2,0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that develops 110 kW and 187 Nm of torque. The maximum torque figure is only available at a high-ish 4 000 rpm, but don’t be fooled, it pulls strongly from much lower down. What helps is the relatively low weight of 1 281 kg and the well-chosen ratios of the slick six-speed manual transmission. The Mazda3 feels eager from pull-away, and never loses this responsiveness. So, it very much stays true to the Mazda “zoom-zoom” spirit, even though the 0-100 km/h time of 9,5 seconds is nothing to really write home about. The fuel economy, however, comes as a surprise. You’re unlikely to achieve 7,9 L/100 km on your daily drive, but should not do worse than 9 L/100 km for normal driving, which is very good for a car of this size and performance potential.

Where the Mazda3 somewhat loses the plot is in its dynamic refinement. Given the fact that it boasts an advanced multi-link rear suspension set-up, Mazda has possibly underachieved in this model’s ride/handling capability. Certainly, it feels stable and boasts safe, predictable handling, but it’s neither as entertaining as the best cars in this class nor as soft-riding. In fact, it suffers a similar fate to the Mazda2 by displaying skittishness on rippled surfaces and high levels of tyre and road noise that detract from its otherwise upmarket persona. Pity… And that’s before we even get to the woeful electrically assisted steering!

Mazda3 – Verdict

In many ways the new Mazda3 is right up there with the best in this class. It looks the part, is better built than it appears at first glance and is packed with features. The engine, too, is a winner, offering excellent responsiveness and good fuel economy. But Mazda can (and should) do better in the suspension department. We could forgive the Mazda3 a degree of skittishness and road noise if it was an electrifying handler, but it’s not. And let’s not forget we’re talking sedans here, so the focus should be on refinement and ride comfort, but here the Mazda3 also trails the best in class. It would appear, then, as if Mazda tried to offer the best of both worlds, but in doing so has missed the target on both counts.

We like:

• Individualistic design
• Equipment level
• Performance
• Quality

We don’t like:

• Suspension can feel/sound harsh
• Cabin design lacks coherency

Fast Facts:

Engine: 2,0-litre, four-cylinder, petrol
Power: 110 kW @ 6 500 rpm
Torque: 187 Nm @ 4 000 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Wheels: 17-inch alloy
Top speed: n/a km/h (200 km/h est.) 0-100 km/h: n/a seconds (9,5 sec est.)
Fuel economy: 7,9 L/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

• Honda Civic 1,8i-VTEC VXi: A pricey but serious rival to the Mazda3 by virtue of its impeccable build quality, refinement and spacious cabin. Honda has a bullet-proof reputation for reliability and this VXi derivative is also decently equipped.

• Toyota Corolla 1,8 Exclusive: Not as powerful as the Mazda3 and also lacking any measure of “zing”, but the Corolla is popular because of its wide servicing network as much as its comfort, and good performance/economy balance.

• Ford Focus 2,0 Si: The Focus offers a full maintenance plan as opposed to the Mazda3 service plan and is also more spacious. But the engine is slightly down on power and the bigger Focus therefore doesn’t feel as “lively”, even though ride/handling is very good.

Audi efficiency set to improve

Audi is synonymous with being the leader in progressive technology and pioneering new innovations. The 21st century brings in a new era of challenges to improve Audi efficiency, including the challenge to become more environmentally conscious and reduce CO2 emissions. One of our most important tasks in the future is to increase efficiency even further.

New technology to enhance Audi efficiency

Energy management also offers huge potential for efficiency – for the air conditioning system, for example, energy recovery and termo management. The intelligent assistance systems such as the on-board computer with efficiency program also offer valuable support to the driver. Last but not least, the new Start/Stop system which switches off the engine when the vehicle is stationery is now being introduced locally by Audi in a number of its models – a first for the South African premium segment.

2009 also saw Audi South Africa making significant strides by further enhancing the efficiency of the Audi models. This is clearly highlighted by the transition to Euro 4 & 5 emission levels of all cars in May.

Start/Stop System

The Start/stop system helps to save fuel and and reduce CO2 emissions, and realises its efficiency potential in urban traffic especially.

Energy management also offers huge potential for efficiency – for the air conditioning system, for example, energy recovery and thermo management. The intelligent assistance systems such as the on-board computer with efficiency program also offer valuable support to the driver.

 

2009 also saw Audi South Africa making significant strides by further enhancing the efficiency of the Audi models. This is clearly highlighted by the transition to Euro 4 & 5 emission levels of all cars in May.

The Start/Stop system

Simply put, the engine switches off automatically when you stop the car at, for example, a traffic light …and starts up again automatically when you are ready to drive off.

When the vehicle stops, the engine is switched off. The vehicle’s electrical system is supplied with electricity from rapid power storage devices called supercaps. As soon as the driver presses down the clutch, the engine is started. By the time the clutch pedal is released, the engine has reached idling speed.

An intelligent engine management system ensures short engine starting times and eliminates all negative effects of switching off and starting the engine with regards to exhaust emissions.

Source: Audi

2011 Ford Fiesta on the cards

The car consumers can’t stop talking about, the 2011 Ford Fiesta, will be revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show in December. Since its kickoff in May, the Fiesta Movement has resulted in more than 50,000 hand-raisers, 97 percent of whom currently do not drive a Ford. Fiesta Movement agents embark on entertainment-themed adventures in October for their final month of missions.

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 6, 2009 – Ford’s rollout of its next generation of small cars will hit an important milestone when the new 2011 Ford Fiesta is revealed in December at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The reveal of the North American-based Ford Fiesta will also mark the culmination of the first phase of the Fiesta Movement.

2011 Ford Fiesta will continue sales success

Fiesta is continuing its sales momentum as Europe’s No. 2-selling car and Ford of Europe’s top-selling vehicle, helping Ford’s share in Europe’s main 19 markets increase for the eighth consecutive month.

Nearly 340,000 Fiestas have been sold since the car was launched last autumn, with 21,800 delivered to customers in August. Fiesta was the best-selling foreign vehicle in August in both Italy and France.

In Europe, the Fiesta name has long been synonymous with outstanding drive quality, design and value. The all-new Ford Fiesta will bring its three-decade heritage to U.S. consumers in 2010.

Source: Ford

Mercedes-Benz sales rise in third quarter

Mercedes-Benz sales for the month of September 2009  totaled 2 047 units, representing a market share of over 10%. This figure contributes to a year-to-date total sales of 15 967 units giving a market share of 9,5%, an increase of almost 1% compared to the 2008 year-to-date figures.

Mercedes-Benz sales remain strong in economic turmoil

This equates to a market share of over 30% in the luxury segment, where the Mercedes-Benz model range competes.

“Despite the very challenging market conditions, we are pleased that we have been able to enjoy relatively good sales,” says Eckart Mayer, divisional manager, Mercedes-Benz Cars. “We believe that our focussed approach and our strong partnership with our dealers, are key contributing factors. Once again our loyal customers have supported us well and also an increasing number of non-traditional Mercedes-Benz customers, who are coming over to our brand,” adds Mayer.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been a major contributor to overall sales, with units of 1 520 units in September, giving a market share of close to half of the medium-luxury segment.

“The success of the C-Class can be attributed to the high level of standard features that this model offers, which is apparent by the positive feedback received by customers.”

“The recently introduced E-Class sedan and coupe models have enjoyed significant sales, and we will be introducing three new model variants to the range towards the end of the month. The diesel engines offering will include the E250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the E350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, which, together with the E200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY 4-cylinder petrol model, will further enhance the exciting E-Class offering,” adds Mayer

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Volkswagen Golf 2,0 TDI Highline (2009) Driving Impression

Although the Volkswagen Golf has boasted the best perceived quality levels in its class for many years, the sixth-generation model of this icon has introduced near-Audi levels of sophistication in its cabin, meaning it is now knocking rather loudly on the premium class’s door. This, Volkswagen believes, firmly places the Golf in a higher class than “mere” Astras and Civics, but the question is whether the market will perceive it that way too. Or has the Volkswagen Golf simply evolved too far from its “quality for the man in the street” roots?

Premium Detailing for Volkswagen Golf

As the Volkswagen Golf 6 is heavily based on the preceding model, some have labelled it merely a facelift. Technically, this may be accurate, but even so the changes are substantial and not merely restricted to a fresh grille and lights, as facelifts tend to be. It is significantly more upmarket in appearance, with the subtle use of chrome lending a premium touch to what is otherwise a handsome, if conservative design. In Highline trim the Golf’s shape also benefits from the fitment of large 17-inch alloy wheels which boost the kerb-side appeal a lot. In front it has adopted the new “slim grille” face of VW.

Open the solid-feeling doors and you’re immediately struck not by the upmarket look of the cabin, but by – don’t laugh – that typical German premium car “aroma”. This means that the Volkswagen Golf pleases all the senses, because the interior doesn’t only “look” and “feel” upmarket, but smells it too. Much of the architecture inside the cabin will be familiar if you’ve driven a Golf before, but the detail changes have been intensive. The quality of the facia moulding and trim pieces have been lifted another notch or two, and the use of satin silver/chrome accenting again creates the illusion of driving something very expensive.

High Comfort Levels

As is to be expected from Volkswagen, this Golf ticks all the comfort boxes. The steering wheel is lovely to grip, and boasts generous rake and reach adjustment. The driver’s seat, too, can be adjusted over a wide range and the cushion length and side bolstering play a big part in the Golf’s impressive long-distance comfort. Those seated in the rear are also well-catered for, with sufficient head- and legroom being offered, as well as ventilation outlets. The boot, however, is not the biggest in this class, but is nicely shaped. Plus, the rear seats can of course fold down if more space is required.

Volkswagen is often criticised for offering relatively sparsely furnished cabins, and that’s the case again with this Golf, especially given the relatively high price. Yes, climate control is fitted as standard, as is cruise control, but you still have to pay extra for leather and there are no auto wipers/lights either. No such complaints on the safety side, though… the Volkswagen Golf packs no fewer than seven airbags in addition to boasting ESP (electronic stability system).

Fantastic Diesel Engine

As the name indicates, this Volkswagen Golf is powered by the VW Group’s impressive 2,0-litre turbodiesel engine that also does duty in several Audi products. It delivers 103 kW and a solid 320 Nm of torque from a low 1 750 rpm. The engine is mated with a six-speed manual transmission that exhibits the “notchiness” so typical of VW products. Interestingly, some drivers appear to like this trait, saying the little bit of extra effort required to select the right gear also means that they’re more confident of actually doing so in the end. The Volkswagen Golf performance is sizzling for a diesel five-door hatchback, with a 0-100 km/h time of 9,3 seconds being rather easily achievable. But that’s nothing compared with the fuel economy. A consumption figure of below 5 L/100 km is on the cards if you drive carefully, and that’s just mind-numbingly good.

And  yet, there’s more.

The engine also exhibits excellent refinement. Even at start-up there isn’t much of the typical direct-injection clatter, and it smoothes out very impressively at speed. It therefore fits in perfectly with the overall character of the car, because the ride is similarly refined, being absorbent yet appreciably firm when pushing on in the corners. The Volkswagen Golf also feels agile, and remains one of the most fun cars to drive in its class.

Volkswagen has also clearly paid a lot of attention to NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) control, because the insulation from road/wind/mechanical noise seems markedly improved compared with its already excellent predecessor.

Volkswagen Golf – Verdict

The Volkswagen Golf 2,0 TDI Highline is significantly more expensive than what is perceived to be its rivals. And yet, in the final analysis, it just about manages to justify the higher price, because it really comes across as a more refined, sophisticated product than the competitor products. If only Volkswagen could be a little more generous with the standard features, then there really would be no argument to be made here. It really is of a class above these days.

We like:

  • Perceived quality
  • Refinement
  • Very comfortable interior
  • Excellent fuel economy
  • Performance


We don’t like:

  • Sparse standard equipment
  • Pricey


Fast facts

Engine: 2,0-litre, four-cylinder, turbodiesel

Power: 103 kW @ 4 200 rpm

Torque: 320 Nm @ 1 750 rpm

Transmission: Six-speed manual

Wheels: 17-inch alloy

Top speed: 209 km/h

0-100 km/h: 9,3 seconds

Fuel economy:  4,9 litres/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

  • Honda Civic 2,2i-CTDI: Cheaper, as powerful as the Volkswagen Golf, better equipped and comes with an excellent reputation for quality and reliability. It’s hard to fault the Honda, but the Civic’s way-out styling won’t appeal to everyone, and its ergonomics aren’t as good.
  • Ford Focus 2,0 TDCI SI: The Ford is certainly well priced and on paper the engine seems up to the job. Somehow, however, it doesn’t quite work. The cabin isn’t up to scratch and the drivetrain refinement is lacking. Not nearly as economical either. But it is A LOT cheaper.
  • Alfa Romeo 147 1,9 JTD MultiJet Distinctive: Looking for something a bit different? Alfa’s 147 may be nearing the end of its life cycle, but remains an interesting choice. The best part (besides the styling), is the gem of an engine. It delivers strong power and economy, as well as surprising refinement.

New Hyundai Sonata unveiled

(Seoul, Korea) Hyundai Motor Company’s all-new Sonata, being introduced today, is expected to shake up the world’s mid-size sedan market with its daring design. The new Hyundai Sonata adopts Hyundai’s new “fluidic sculpture” design language, boasts outstanding performance with the segment-leading safety features and fuel efficiency. Incorporating state-of-the-art technologies, the new Sonata will further elevate the Hyundai brand.

New Hyundai Sonata set for success

Hyundai began developing the new Sonata in 2005 under the codename YF (Note: The car may be launched under a different name in some regions). The project took 4 years and 450 billion won (US$ 372 million*) to go from concept to customer.

Although it is a completely new vehicle, Hyundai is retaining the Sonata name as the mid-size car has been Korea’s most popular sedan. Applying a new design aesthetic of “fluidic sculpture,” the new Hyundai Sonata pursues a younger and sensuous image in its interior and exterior profiles. Inspired by nature, the “fluidic sculpture” tries to reflect sophistication and dynamism in the shape of the vehicle and will serve as the core of Hyundai’s future design identity.

The outer design of the new Sonata exudes a voluminous look that creates character through the refined and harmonized lines. The interior has a dynamic look that matches the exterior while not compromising comfort or convenience. The new Hyundai Sonata is available in nine exterior colors, from Remington Red to Blue Black to Espresso, satisfying the diverse tastes of younger customers.

Source: Hyundai

New Jaguar XJ Sedan revealed

The all-new Jaguar XJ reflects a vision that defies preconceptions and transforms the idea of a luxury saloon. It is a blend of stunning design, intuitive technology and innovative thinking. A contemporary luxury car that is beautiful, exhilarating and sustainable.

New Jaguar XJ Sedan – Features

* 6-speed electronic automatic transmission with Jaguar Sequential ShiftTM

* JaguarDrive ControlTM – Winter Mode

* JaguarDrive ControlTM – Dynamic Mode

* JaguarDrive SelectorTM

* DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) with Trac DSC mode

* Electric Parking Brake (EPB) – drive-away release

* Adaptive Dynamics

* Cruise Control with Automatic Speed Limiter (ASL)

Soft Grain leather heated front and rear seats

Jaguarsense

Itech virtual intraments

* Full colour HD touch-screen

* Interactive controls

* Interactive voice

* Media hub for audio and video streaming

* Dual zone climate control

* Jaguar 600w premium sound system

* 14 Speakers

* Panoramic roof with electric blinds

* Headlamps – Automatic xenon with washers and front LED signature lights

Source: Jaguar

New Alfa Romeo MiTo launches in South Africa

Alfa’s sports star, the new Alfa Romeo MiTo, has arrived in South Africa.

New Alfa Romeo MiTo draws on Italian styling heritage

For nearly one century, Alfa Romeo has stood as an indisputable symbol of motoring design and Italian sporting style, as well as a towering example of engineering and mechanical excellence. The new Alfa Romeo MiTo is the first car to be built since the 8C Competizione – Alfa Romeo’s icon of style and technology, from which it borrows certain characteristic traits. The new Alfa Romeo MiTo represents the ultimate expression of Italian style, welcoming yet sporty, with high material quality and scrupulous attention to detail.

The greatest thought has also gone into defining the dimensions, which add up to a compact and dynamic shape that nicely fulfils the requirement for downsizing, one of the buzzwords of present-day motoring design. Downsizing actually means improving energy efficiency, reducing CO2 emissions and simplifying driving and parking around town. But this new approach to construction does not preclude sportiness. Quite the opposite: the new Alfa Romeo MiTo is the best demonstration that the two requirements can be reconciled.

Sleek Proportions

The car’s proportions also make a very clear statement that this is a true sports car – it measures 4.06 metres long, 1.44 metres high and 1,72 metres wide – without giving up anything in terms of driving comfort. Indeed the excellent interior space distribution makes for an outstanding amount of room for both driver and passengers.

Launched in a sexy and powerful 114Kw 1.4 turbo engine, Alfa Romeo MiTo 6-speed gearbox offers generosity with a lively temperament, developed of course by the world renowned Fiat Powertrain Technologies.

The new Alfa Romeo MiTo is a strong, compact car with dominion of the road and an emphatic personality of its own…but you’ll only truly understand its strength, power and style once you get inside.

Source: Alfa Romeo

Nissan Global Compact Car sketch revealed

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today revealed the sketch of its global compact car. Planned to be manufactured in 5 countries, including Thailand, China and India, the Nissan global compact car model will be first launched in Thailand in March 2010 and will be available in more than 150 countries, including South Africa.

B-segment to light up with Nissan global compact car

“We aim to make an impact on the B-segment, the biggest market for passenger vehicles in South Africa” – says Mike Whitfield, Nissan South Africa, MD. This major segment caters for first time car buyers or as a secondary mode of household transport. “We are confident that the new Nissan will offer a stylish, yet value for money package,” concludes Whitfield. Timing for local introduction will be announced in due course.

Audi A3 2,0 TDI Ambition (2009) Driving Impression

If there’s a car out there that illustrates the power of premium brand appeal, then perhaps the Audi A3 is it. Here you have what is essentially a Volkswagen Golf, but one with only three doors, fairly sparse standard equipment, and a lofty price tag. And guess what? You want it. You crave it… like thousands of other people.

The appeal is easy to grasp. The four rings logo on the grille says you’re climbing the career ladder very successfully. As a consequence, you’re also more socially desirable. If cars are extensions of our own selves, then the Audi A3 is the equivalent of a professional make-over, a costly visit to the dentist, and a new wardrobe courtesy of a style consultant. We crave it, because we secretly hope its desirability will rub off on us…

More glitz & glam for Audi A3

The latest Audi A3 has benefitted from another round of cosmetic updates. Most of the panels that constitute the face of the car have been changed, and there are new rear lights, too, in addition to new colours and wheel designs. The refreshment has worked well, making the Audi A3 look even more expensive and stylish than before. As ever, Audi offers a wide range of optional extras to allow you to personalise your car, but be careful when ticking these option boxes, as the costs can quickly escalate. Then again, the Ambition model tested here does lack some items that should’ve been standard at this price level – including remote audio controls. Also optional are; cruise control, a sunroof and auto lights and wipers. But what you do get includes leather upholstery and climate control. At the price it’s a package that just about can be labelled as fair.

Changes to the interior are fairly hard to spot until pointed out. Mostly, Audi has attempted to break the monotony of the black cabin by adding some shiny metallic accents. These work well and, importantly, contribute to a feeling of overall solidity, because they feel like the real thing when touched. The rest of the cabin has remained mostly as before, which is no bad thing. The Audi A3 offers superb comfort levels up front with very supportive seats. The driver’s seat is height-adjustable, and the steering wheel offers, in typical Audi fashion, rake and reach adjustment. The driving position is superb. The seat goes down nice and low, which results in a sporty position behind the wheel, when required.

Of course, with only three doors, the Audi A3 looses some points for practicality. Space in the rear is not too claustrophobic (for a three-door), but access obviously requires some body flexing. The boot is surprisingly big, and contains a space-saver spare wheel under its floor.

Torque for the town

This model is powered by the Volkswagen group’s proven 2,0-litre turbodiesel engine that delivers 103 kW at 320 Nm torque. It sounds fairly gruff at idle, but smoothes out considerably when cruising and provides superb fuel economy. Audi claims a figure of 6,8 litres/100 km, but in reality you can beat that figure with some careful driving. With a sub-10-second 0-100 km/h sprint time, it’s also no slouch. It’s free-revving nature makes everyday driving a real pleasure, as does the slick six-speed manual transmission.

Underpinning the Audi A3 is, of course, the same structure that you’ll find in a Golf. There’s multi-link rear suspension and a set-up that has been tuned to find a good balance between ride comfort and entertaining dynamics. For the most part, the Audi A3 succeeds, but the emphasis is most definitely on delivering comfort over sharp dynamics. This is not a criticism. For its intended purpose, ride comfort is far more important. For enthusiastic drivers, however, there is probably one other point of concern, though the overwhelming majority of Audi A3 TDI buyers won’t worry – there’s little feedback, and a somewhat vague, overly light feel to the steering.  But that’s about it. The Audi A3 is a refined, quiet, solid and downright enjoyable car to drive.

Audi A3 – Verdict

To be brutally honest, even if the Audi A3 was a poor product, it would still sell rather well, such is the desirability of the Audi badge at present. But remove badge appeal from the equation for a moment and you still have a very solid proposition. Yes, three doors limit its ultimate practicality, but if that’s what you’re really after, get an Audi A3 Sportback for not much more. The Audi A3 is a stylish, solid and economical premium product that has real substance to its style.

We like:

  • Sophisticated, upmarket looks
  • Cabin quality
  • Powerful engine
  • Fuel economy
  • Premium badge


We don’t like:

  • Some optional features should be standard
  • Three doors limit practicality
  • Dull steering


Fast facts

Engine: 2,0-litre, four-cylinder, turbodiesel

Power: 103 kW @ 4 000 rpm

Torque: 320 N.m @ 1 750 rpm

Transmission: Six-speed manual

Wheels: 17-inch alloy

Top speed: 205 km/h

0-100 km/h: 9,5 seconds

Fuel economy:  6,8 litres/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

  • Volkswagen Golf (6) 2,0 TDI Highline: An enemy from within the family, and a strong one, too. Yes, the Golf doesn’t have the Audi’s brand appeal and is not offered as a sporty three-door. But it has the same engine and is more practical.
  • Honda Civic 2,2i-CDTI VXi: Offers sci-fi looks inside and out, but is more practical than its bizarre design would seem to suggest. The engine is superbly refined, and offers even more torque than the Audi A3. An acquired taste.
  • Alfa Romeo 147 1,9 JTD MultiJet Distinctive 5-dr: This is an underrated car, but even so it struggles to compete at this level. Even as a five-door it can’t match the boot space of the Audi A3. It’s a fun drive, but probably less fun to own long-term – build quality gripes remain.