Road test: Audi A3 1.4 TFSI Saloon

Audi has given its A3 model a boot in the rear. After years as a hatchback, Sportback or cabrio, it is now also available as a saloon, and together with new S3 and S3 Sportback versions brings Audi’s range to an astonishing 47 models.

At launch the A3 Saloon is available with 1.4 and 1.8-litre petrol engines or a two-litre diesel priced between £24,275 and £28,105 on the road. The car’s lines have been subtly tweaked and it is lower, wider and longer than the A3 Sportback. Its 425-litre boot is also bigger than that of the Sportback.

Like its cousin, the VW Golf, the car’s 1.4-litre petrol engine can close down two of its four cylinders under light load to aid CO2 and fuel consumption, which Audi claims to be 60.1mpg. We managed 44.7mpg without undue effort. On the road the premium ride and finish is obvious and the car feels like it’s powered by a bigger engine. There is so little mechanical noise that all you can hear is tyre roar, which can be a bit intrusive on some surfaces.

Under most circumstances there is no lack of power — the engine produces 138hp and can accelerate to 62mph in a claimed 8.4 seconds. Only at motorway cruising speeds do you notice a lag of about two seconds before the engine responds to requests for more grunt. Refinement is excellent and the fit and finish as good as on high-end Audis.

Audi A3 1.4 TFSI Saloon Sport
Top speed: 135mph;
MPG: 60.1; Emissions: 109g/km;
Price: £24,304