Audi A3 1.2 TFSI SE 3dr Car Review - May 2013

The 1.2-litre petrol engine in the Audi A3 TFSI SE may be the smallest in the A3 range in terms of capacity, but it still produces 104bhp which is the same figure as the entry-level A3 diesel. It is slightly quicker than its diesel brethren, going from 0-62mph in 10.3 seconds. The engine proves a more than capable power plant and its refinement is matched by that of the suspension and steering, both of which fell well balanced and responsive. The driving position comes with plenty of options for adjustment, meaning the Audi A3 should provide a comfortable driving experience for most drivers. The solid feel of the cabin is reassuring, although there is some intrusion from wind noise during high speed cruising.

The SE trim level in the Audi A3 1.2 TFSI will see the car fitted as standard with power steering, central locking, stability control, alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, alarm and immobiliser, and a CD player with bluetooth and MP3 connectivity. The SE trim level does miss out on a few desirable items, but these can be added by choosing from an extensive list of optional extra. For example, climate control can be added for £390, metallic paint for £525, cruise control for £225, leather seats for £1,115, and satellite navigation for £495. Styling wise, the current Audi A3 inherits many features from its predecessor, for example the prominent front grille which houses the four-rung logo and number plate. However, sharper front end styling such as the lights and spoiler give the new model a much more aggressive look.

Head and leg room for both the driver and front seat passenger in the Audi A3 are impressive, although it is slightly less so once you move into the rear. An absolutely adequate 365-litres of boot space rises to 1100-litres once the standard fit split-folding rear seats are lowered, with shape and access also well considered. The Audi comes as standard with driver, passenger, and front side airbags, as well as driver safety aids such as stability control. All of these contributed to the cars impressive performance when Euro NCAP, the independent consumer organisation who undertake crash testing on all new cars on the European market, awarded the Audi A3 1.2 TFSI SE full five-stars for overall safety. The build quality feels excellent, but the A3 also comes with a 3-year, 60,000-mile manufacturers warranty.

The Audi A3 1.2 TFSI SE claims an impressive 57.6mpg combined, with its CO2 emissions figure of 114g/km seeing it fall into Road Tax Band C, running cost figures that will see it prove a popular buy. In comparison, the entry level BMW 1-Series, the 114i ES 3dr, is similarly priced but will cost much more to run. The BMW only does 49.6mpg, and falls into Road Tax Band E. The BMW is almost a second slower from 0-62 mph too. The levels of standard equipment are almost identical, but although some buyers will choose the BMW because they like the brand, those using their head will choose the Audi A3 for the greater value for money it affords. Both will hold their value reasonably strongly, but the Audi A3 will save a considerable amount in running costs during ownership.