Question 1

TDI or TFSI: which Audi A3 makes more sense?

Accepted Answer

A TDI diesel suits high annual mileage and regular motorway runs, which its particulate filter needs to clean itself. For mostly short trips a TFSI petrol is the safer choice. The IUC rises with engine size and CO2 emissions, so a smaller engine also costs less every year.

Question 2

What should I check on an Audi A3's S tronic gearbox?

Accepted Answer

Lower-powered A3s use a seven-speed dry-clutch S tronic that can judder or hesitate when pulling away, so test it in slow traffic and on a slope. The wet-clutch versions fitted to stronger engines need oil changes at set intervals, so ask for proof they were done.

Question 3

Is an imported Audi A3 a good buy?

Accepted Answer

It can be, provided the ISV has been paid and the car is on Portuguese plates and recorded at the Registo Automóvel. Check that the VIN on the documents matches the car, and ask for the service history from its country of origin.

Question 4

What is the plug-in hybrid Audi A3?

Accepted Answer

Audi sold the A3 Sportback as a plug-in hybrid, first as the e-tron and later as the TFSI e, pairing a petrol engine with a battery charged from a socket. It makes most sense if you can charge at home or at work. Check that the charging cable comes with the car and that it charges properly.

Used Audi A3 cars in Portugal

Audi A3 Sportback

Audi A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI S-line

Audi A3

Audi A3 2.0 TDI 140cv Nacional

Audi A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI Advance

Audi A3 Sportback

Audi A3 1.6 TDI

Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 TDI S-line

Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 TDI quattro S-line S tronic

Audi A3