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Audi A3 Sedan

Our pick: Audi A3 Sedan 1.0 TFSI from S$203,809 with COE (December 2022)
Read our full review of the Audi A3 Sedan 1.0 here

The latest generation Audi A3 Sedan was launched in 2021, initially with a 1.5-litre engine that produced 150hp. A year later, it was joined by a 1.0-litre version that slotted the car into COE Category A, thanks to its 110hp output.

Unfortunately, it came at a time when COE premiums were skyrocketing to near-record highs, which meant that the A3 1.0 Sedan ended up retailing for over 200 grand, blunting its mass appeal somewhat. It is still cheaper than either of its two German rivals though, and if you look beyond the price tag, and you’ll find a car that is well capable of living up to its luxury reputation.

While the A3 Sedan 1.0 may be more expensive to buy in a high COE climate, opting for the smaller engine might prove to be the savvier choice if you look at the greater picture. Certainly at least, you stand to save a fair bundle down the line, both in terms of lower running costs as well as greater efficiency.

The 999cc engine incurs just S$390 in road tax annually, and the claimed fuel consumption figure of 4.3L/100km is eminently achievable with careful driving. Even if you’re just an average driver that’s not particularly light-footed, a 6.0L/km average is easily achievable in the A3 1.0.

As a driving proposition, the 1.0-litre engine may not be the most powerful around, but it offers more than enough for most Singaporeans’ driving needs. The unit is smooth and refined, and it is paired with some pretty neat handling manners that makes the car quite a delightful steer in the corners.

More crucially however, despite the car’s entry-level status, the A3 1.0 Sedan still feels like a luxury sedan inside. There’s still plenty of premium features, like a fully-digital driver’s instrument display, as well as a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The overall fit and finish are put together with the usual Audi Teutonic precision too, with no sign of cost cutting anywhere.

Viewed on its own, the A3 Sedan 1.0 makes for an extremely compelling choice, with its superb efficiency, great drivability and premium luxury interior. In a more reasonable COE environment, the A3 1.0 Sedan should be a major sales hit among Singaporeans, much like its predecessor was.

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