Audi A3 Sportback (2004 - 2013) 1.6 Technik 5d (2011/60) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That we were suckered into believing we were buying a "premium" family hatchback.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

All like it until we list the catalogue of problems we have had with it and like us, everyone is surprised when we tell them as all are under the impression that it just shouldn't happen with an Audi.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Absolutely not! A poorly finished vehicle that has done nothing but disappoint from the outset. Most definitely a "Friday afternoon car" - thrown together last thing on a Friday afternoon before going home for the weekend. Not at all the "premium" status that Audi would have customers believe from their advertising.

What are you likely to buy next?

BMW 1 series, Mercedes Benz A class, Volvo V40 or Mazda 3. Would not even consider returning to Audi again.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£16,500

When did you buy the car?

March 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Got a very good deal at the time. Bought at the end of the month and spent 3 hours haggling the deal. £2500.00 off the listed price, full tank of fuel and various accessories thrown in as freebies.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Car the wife had always admired/wanted.

What was the dealer like?

Brilliant at point of sale. Did not get impatient, made us all (kids included) very welcome, spent time working through the deal with us and was a good buying experience.

What's it like to drive?

Nothing more than average.

What's it like to park?

Nothing more than average.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes. Its been back to Audi no less than 6 times for warranty work in the first 2 years of ownership. Carpets worn through as no insulation/sound proofing blocks placed behind it. Repaired but to a very poor standard in my opinion. Knocking noises coming from front suspension. Heat shields not fitted correctly to exhaust. Exhaust not fitted correctly and whilst dealer has done all work required under warranty and at no cost to us, it is the inconvenience of returning each time. You do not expect such issues from a so called "premium" brand such as Audi. It was a car my wife had always wanted and waited for but has been nothing short of a disappointment and pain in the backside to own.

What's most practical about your car?

Frugal on fuel on long journeys. Bar that, not much. The rear is cramped, the driving position is poor, the position and width of the pillars mean poor visibility, aerodynamics are poor for rain dispersment and the seats are extremely uncomfortable - sitting on the toilet offers better support.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The stereo is premium quality sound.