Best small car over $35,000
Audi A3 Sportback TFSI COD
Audi has introduced a new cylinder on demand (COD) model to its A3 Sportback range. COD has the car operating on four cylinders in most driving conditions, but drops it to two when only minimum power is required.
So, when cruising along on flat, straight highways or country roads, it does just that – cruises. Which is how the A3 COD comes to score an official figure of 4.7 litres/100km, making it more efficient than all other petrol-turbo vehicles in this class.
While its score falls down ever so slightly against competitors in running and repair costs, the COD technology means owners save money as they drive. And for those who turn over their cars regularly, the A3 also holds its value well. Then there’s Audi's attention to build and finish, and this model is no exception.
It is also top in class for ergonomics. All instruments are legible, easy to use and understand, and well positioned.
The seats are comfortably supportive and, despite being a small car, the A3 also has useful cabin space. The 1.4-litre, turbo-petrol four-cylinder performs well and awards judges were impressed by the A3’s ride and handling. It also sits securely on the road and is compliant and comfortable over most road surfaces.
View scoresheet
Indicative Drive Away Price: $43,346
Criteria out of 10 – Audi A3 Sportback TFSI COD
| Value for Money |
Rating |
| Pricing |
8H |
| Depreciation |
9M |
| Running Costs |
6M |
| Fuel Consumption |
9C |
| Warranty and dealer access |
3H |
| Insurance |
3L |
| Standard Features |
5M |
| Design and Function |
Rating |
| Safety |
7C |
| Environment |
10C |
| Comfort |
8M |
| Space |
8L |
| Practicality |
7M |
| Ergonomics |
8M |
| Build and Finish |
9H |
| On the Road |
Rating |
| Performance |
8H |
| Ride |
9H |
| Handling |
7H |
| Braking |
8H |
| Smoothness and Quietness |
8L |
Note: Level of weighting importance for each score: L = Low, M = Medium, H = High, C = Critical.