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2010 Audi A3 2.0 TFSI Premium Review

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Luc Gagné
The little-known Audi
With its 200 ponies, the supercharged number allows the little Audi to zip from 0 to 100 km/h in under 7 seconds. That’s only eight tenths of a second more than the A3 3.2 FSI quattro. In 2009, that flagship model was equipped with a 250-hp V6. It’s not surprising that Audi crossed it off the lineup’s list in 2010, when we know that an A3 like this one can do just as well with a 4-cylinder turbo engine – for $4000 less.

For 2010, Audi has submitted six variations on the A3. Four are powered by the 4-cylinder TFSI, while the other two have inherited a sober 4-cylinder TDI engine.

The automatic transmission’s sequential mode can be activated via the shifter on the centre console or small steering wheel paddles. (Photo: Luc Gagné/Auto123.com)

Our tester, the high-end A3, came standard with the 6-speed automatic transmission, available as an option on the less lavish TFSI models. The transmission features a sequential mode activated via the shifter on the centre console or small steering wheel paddles. So you can use it like a manual transmission, without the bother of continually stomping on the clutch.

A superb cruiser
Fitted with quattro all-wheel drive, one of the best constant mesh dynamic systems out there, the A3 has impressive road-going manners. The car always has a firm grip on the road – naturally. What’s more, its supercharged engine ensures acceleration and throttle response worthy of a sports car, something that its rather humble exterior doesn’t hint at in the slightest.

The power steering is surgical in its precision and the reduced turning radius (10.7 metres) ensures welcome manoeuvrability in tight spaces. And the suspension is calibrated for both a sporty and comfortable ride. Lastly, the four wheel disc brakes are in keeping with the performances you can coax out of the engine.

The only downside for a small car such as this is that you have to make frequent pit stops to fill up the 55-litre tank. Yes, the supercharged engine is thirsty, and guzzles around 10 litres per 100 km – of premium fuel, to boot. A thoroughbred can’t live on straw, after all.

One of the A3’s strong suits is its road-going manners, as stimulating as they are reassuring. (Photo: Luc Gagné/Auto123.com)
Luc Gagné
Luc Gagné
Automotive expert
  • More than 30 years of experience as an automotive journalist
  • Over 59 test drives in the past year
  • Attended over 150 new vehicle launches in the presence of the brand's technical specialists