You must choose the Premium model to have access to the $2,900 S Line Sport Package, though. That Symphony stereo upgrade costs a whopping $1,700. And those cool bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights add another $900 to the final tally, so our test car has a total MSRP of $45,495, which includes $1,995 freight & PDI charges.
The A3 faces many fierce competitors, but factor in the TDI engine, and rivals become much scarcer. You could consider the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, the MINI Cooper Clubman, the Volvo V50 and even Audi’s own A4 Avant. None of these will be as economical at the pump as the diesel-pumping A3. Lexus’ upcoming CT 200h also seems to be a competitor.
Okay, now gas or diesel? The TDI costs $1,350 more than a front-drive, automatic gas-powered equivalent, and you’ll miss out on the stick shift and the winter-capable all-wheel drive. If you drive under 25,000 km annually, and are looking to lease an A3, go for the gas engine, as you won’t recuperate the higher price. Or else, you’d only be spending to save.
The A3 faces many fierce competitors, but factor in the TDI engine, and rivals become much scarcer. You could consider the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, the MINI Cooper Clubman, the Volvo V50 and even Audi’s own A4 Avant. None of these will be as economical at the pump as the diesel-pumping A3. Lexus’ upcoming CT 200h also seems to be a competitor.
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| $2,900 fror the Sport S Line package, $1,700 for the Symphony stereo system and $900 for the bi-xenon headlamps for a grand total of $45,495 as tested. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
Okay, now gas or diesel? The TDI costs $1,350 more than a front-drive, automatic gas-powered equivalent, and you’ll miss out on the stick shift and the winter-capable all-wheel drive. If you drive under 25,000 km annually, and are looking to lease an A3, go for the gas engine, as you won’t recuperate the higher price. Or else, you’d only be spending to save.
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