Audi A3: Now luxury made more affordable

By Abhinav Mishra

Pics and text: BBC TopGear India; www.topgear.com/india
There's a new entry in the luxury segment and no, it won't wipe your bank account dry. Ladies and gentlemen, here's the latest budget offering from the Audi stable, the A3 Sedan. As the name suggests, the car will be placed below the A4. This sedan might be small, but don't worry, it's not small on luxury.

First, the overall looks. It's a compact, cute-looking sedan, neither too flashy nor dull. It could win a lot of hearts simply because of its subtle appearance. The same uncluttered feel extends to the interior.

The dashboard has a simple layout and is dominated by the four large air vents. Press a button and the MMI screen pops up. The interior feels plush and well-built. I drove the diesel-engine car that is powered by a 2.0-litre motor, but is now strangely badged as a '35TDI'.

According to Audi, the new variant nomenclature is based on the performance of the car. Simply put, the higher the number, the faster the 0-100kph dash. The engine makes 140bhp and 320Nm of torque.

Quattro fans might be disappointed, as the A3 doesn't get this all-wheel drive system in India. Channeling all that power to the front wheels is a six-speed, double-clutch automatic transmission.

The A3's ride is impressive, be it on the highway, or potholed roads. Push the car into a corner, and the ESP and traction control will keep you safe. It can handle bends well.

The A3 diesel feels happier crunching mile after mile on the open road, or ferrying you around town. It might be the smallest Audi here, but it still comes loaded with the goodies that you expect to see in a luxury car.

Add some classic German styling, and the A3 is a desirable machine. Priced at Rs 22.95 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), it might just be the car that lures a whole lot of budget-conscious buyers to the doorstep of German luxury.

Audi A3 Sedan

Engine Inline: 4cyl, 1,981cc diesel

Power: 140bhp

Torque: 320Nm

Top speed: 224kph

Price: Rs 22.95 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Verdict: Audi opens its doors for buyers looking for a luxury sedan, but not wanting to spend A4-money