Description
As soon as the sun hits its black paint, this A3 commands attention. Sleek lines, sporty S Line styling, aggressive but tasteful trim — it gives off premium vibes without trying too hard. The Sportback body adds a sporty flair (and added practicality) that lifts this above a standard hatch. Slide inside, and it’s leather (or premium cloth/part-leather in many cases), sharp finishes, and that driver-centric cockpit that reminds you: this is more than just transportation.
Engine, Performance & Drive Feel
The 1.5 TFSI 150 PS petrol engine is a sweet spot in the A3 lineup — enough punch to make overtakes satisfying, yet still reasonably efficient. From tests, the “35 TFSI” version (150 PS) hits 0-62 mph in about 8.1-8.4 seconds in S Line spec, and tops out around 140 mph.
Being a manual adds to the engagement. You feel more connected: choosing revs, timing shifts, enjoying the engine’s response. For drivers who enjoy the craft of driving, this is a big plus.
Handling: tight steering, composed in corners, firm enough to feel sporty without being harsh daily. The S Line suspension gives a firmer ride (you’ll notice it more on bargain tyres or rough surfaces), but it rewards you with more control and less body roll than the base suspension. The Sportback shape gives a lower centre of gravity feeling compared to SUVs, which helps in spirited driving.
Practicality & Everyday Use
Mileage (~29,867) and 2 owners suggests fairly well-used but not beaten — if service history is good, this is a manageable level of wear.
Boot space is healthy: about 380 litres with seats up. Big enough for weekly shopping, luggage, or weekend gear. Rear seat room is good for their class (though taller passengers might notice headroom or centre-seat comfort is slightly compromised — common in this type of hatch).