Audi A3 Sedan
 (3.5/5)
expert rating
 (3.5/5)
owner rating
RM 4,364.11 /month
RM 327,162.00

Audi A3 Sedan 8Y (2022-Present) Expert Review

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Exterior
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Interior
Date Reviewed
7 February 2023
Performance
Ride & Handling
Comfort
Safety
Space
Value
Overall Rating

Powerful, fun to drive, and well-built. These are some character-defining traits of the Audi A3 Sedan, which has, in our experience, proven to be the most engaging model in its segment. It falls flat on its face with regards to the lack of advanced driving aids, and its sticker price puts it firmly in the category of statelier executives. Shame, for what is otherwise a validly lovable product.

For
  • Great build quality and finishing
  • Refined powertrain
  • Fast-shifting S tronic gearbox
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Supportive Nappa leather S line seats
Against
  • Rides a tad too firmly for the urban setting
  • Appallingly lacking in driver assist systems
  • Pricey
  • Ugly stock rims
Performance

The familiar 2.0 TFSI engine is peppy enough for a car this size. It always feels sprightly, albeit not as quick as the Mercedes-Benz A 250 Sedan, but good enough for just about any situation. The 7-speed S tronic DCT feels the most refined in its class, too. Thankfully, there is the Sport mode for maximum go.

Ride & Handling

Keen drivers will be pleased with this MQB-based A3 Sedan. It is far more engaging behind the wheel compared to class rivals, and more surefooted at the limits as well. As expected, though, steering feel leans on the numb side, but it is very willing to dance and reacts so responsively to steering inputs. How reminiscent of the Golf GTI.

Comfort

While it handles like a dream, unfortunately, some points will have to be detracted when it comes to ride comfort. The A3 Sedan is sprung a little too harshly for typical Malaysian roads, but not to the point of being crashy. That said, seating comfort is commendable for the driver and front passenger. The rear bench falls a little short on thigh support, but not an uncommon find for cars in this segment.

Safety

Audi models continue to lag behind the competition when it comes to safety features. The lack of AEB and lane keeping aid is embarrassing, considering the price point.

Space

Audi has made this generation of the A3 feel slightly more spacious on the inside, despite having made no lengthening of the wheelbase. There's 20 mm more headroom for the driver and front passenger as well, although boot space remains unchanged from before with 425 litres.

Value

If we're comparing apples, the A3 Sedan is a great, solid alternative to the 2GC and A 250. Its biggest Achilles heel is pricing, which is an impossibly hard pill to swallow. That said, feel free to splurge on the desires of your heart. It is, all things considered, a powerful car that is big on the fun (and novel) factor.