I had an A3 TDI loaner last year when my allroad was in for some work. I expected boring, basic transportation. I was wrong.
After one day and 300 miles I thought it was an absolute blast to drive. Diesel takes a little getting used-to as there is no reason to rev it past 3000 rpm. All the power you need is there by 2000 rpm.
It is very quick off the line due to all that torque. The diesel A3 only comes front wheel drive (no quattro), but torque-steer was minimal. The loaner A3 had the dual clutch DSG, which is fantastic. I couldn't shift a manual that quick. What was really fun was downshifting on exit ramps, made it feel like a go cart. The handling, steering feedback and suspension are excellent.
Even with aggressive driving, I still got over 40 mpg that day. If you don't need quattro for winter driving, then seriously consider an A3 TDI. It will make your commute fun.
After one day and 300 miles I thought it was an absolute blast to drive. Diesel takes a little getting used-to as there is no reason to rev it past 3000 rpm. All the power you need is there by 2000 rpm.
It is very quick off the line due to all that torque. The diesel A3 only comes front wheel drive (no quattro), but torque-steer was minimal. The loaner A3 had the dual clutch DSG, which is fantastic. I couldn't shift a manual that quick. What was really fun was downshifting on exit ramps, made it feel like a go cart. The handling, steering feedback and suspension are excellent.
Even with aggressive driving, I still got over 40 mpg that day. If you don't need quattro for winter driving, then seriously consider an A3 TDI. It will make your commute fun.