The wilderness comes from a naturally aspired A3’s engine whose line-up has received a make-over too. There are a number of new powerplants added to the mix and all engines boast Audi’s downsizing principle, feature direct injection, turbocharging and start-stop technology.
The brute acceleration- as we headed off to North West in Ganalaagte for the celebrations of Chief Molete to ascendency- can be described as a feeling of a macho! Its deliriously addictive and keep punching the accelerator was revelling.
This German made has the tenure to sing, conjuring up furious rumble whenever, I touched the loud pedal.
Of course, with such an appetite for furious power, you would think the A3 TFSI has developed a drinking problem: a BIG NO.
Petrol wise, its convenient and the only advise to those with penchant for such cars, full it up. It worked for me.
It’s weight is 80kg, and the high-tech body steel and an aluminium bonnet and fenders results in a mass of no more that 1175 kg in total.
The exterior mirrors are set on the door rails – just like on real sports cars.
Audi’s large single-frame grille is prominent on the car’s front and dazzling xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights give its face a pleasing finishing touch.
At the back, the tail lights are fitted with LEDs as standard and an integrated roof edge spoiler creates additional aerodynamic capabilities.
With locals and guests admiring this beau, A3 TFSI was the obvious talk of the village, stru!
The instrument panel with 3D inlays seems to embrace the driver and stylish circular air vents are inspired by jet planes. Three trim levels are offered S, SE and Quattro with the level of standard equipment greatly improved over previous models.
Optional features include an MMI navigation plus system with a 7 inch monitor and touch-sensitive control panel.
Added to the list is Audi A3’s powerful brake system, ESP (electronic stabilization programme), which networks ABS (anti-locking brake system), with EBD (electronic brake force distribution), ASR (anti-slip regulation), EDL (electronic differential lock) and the conventional hydraulic brake assist system.
With so many features at play, the new Audi A3 is without doubt one of the safest, relilable cars on the road today. Yep, I said it.
This is the kind of fete I’m referring to. Its AWESOME dawg…Ahem!
The 1.2 entry-level model is priced at R270 000 and a full-house 1.8 TFSI Quattro S-tronic retails for around R351 500.
With price fluctuations, consult your principal dealer for more info.
Verdict:
1-10 (Performance) 8
1-10 (Petrol) 7