The Garage – Audi A3 Sedan 1.8-litre TFSI Ambition Quattro

Turning a popular hatch into a sedan is old news, there’s dozen of examples out there. But turning a fabulous hatch into a desirable sedan… Well that’s another story. This week in The EFTM Garage sits a major success story, the Audi A3 Sedan 1.8-litre TFSI Ambition. As Charlie Sheen would say “Winning”!

Engine: 1.8-litre turbo four-cylinder, petrol

Transmission: 6-speed S Tronic

Vital Stats: Power 132kW @4500rmp – 6200rpm

Torque: 280Nm @ 1350rpm – 4,500rpm

Audi Claimed Fuel Economy: 6.6/100km

EFTM Claimed Fuel Economy: 8.2/100km.

MRRP Price: From $47,800

Options Fitted:

• Metallic/pearl effect paint $1150.
• Tecknik Package: $2990
• S Line Sports Package: $4200

Wow Factor: Where to start! This is basically a micro Audi A4, anyone remember Micro Machines the early 1990’s toy craze? For some reason when I first saw the A3 sedan it induced that particular flashback to my childhood. But in reality the A3 sedan is in fact deceptively large inside and out. With delightful looks from any angle and an interior constructed by the very best, this car mounts a strong case for jumping into a German. The feisty 1.8-litre TFSI propels the light frame from standstill to motorway speeds in around 7 seconds. Handling is aided and abetted by Audi’s famous Quattro AWD system and customisable driving programs enhance the already embedded poise and balance.

Most Impressive: For a price the A3 sedan can be improved with a number of cutting edge options. Our test car picked up two major assets being Audi’s Tecknik and S line Sports Package. Tecknik offers the latest MMI Navigation Plus software which includes MMI touch. This offers an ability to squiggle letters via your index finger onto a central touchpad. The novelty provides a shortcut to items such as stored contact names, however many of the features can be accessed via voice recognition anyway. There’s also a brilliant sound system with adjustable sub woofer. The S line upgrade offers tailored exterior highlights such as side skirts, matt black 5-arm 18” alloys, xenon headlamps with Daytime Running Lights and high end leather interior.

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Not So Impressive: The MMI touch functionality seems cool but will probably be largely unused by the driver in time. It’s a little ungainly to use if you’re right handed and to be honest a true touchscreen is more user friendly. Although the experience of witnessing the perfectly executed (but out of reach) pop up display arise from the dash never grows old. Also, options are very pricey – but expected in this marquee category.[schema type=”review” rev_name=”Audi A3 Sedan 1.8-litre TFSI Ambition Quattro” rev_body=”Hard to fault, this is a glorious vehicle, worth every cent – in fact, great value.” author=”Chris Bowen” pubdate=”2014-05-19″ user_review=”4.5″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]