We take a look at three entry-level Audi models to find out if they are good options for first-time car buyers.
Audi is known for its premium sedan, SUV and sports car models, however, as a first-time car buyer, these might fall just outside of your budget. That is why we will be looking at three of the German automaker’s ranges to find out if these entry-level models will meet your requirements as a new vehicle owner.
There are a few key aspects of a vehicle any first-time car buyer should consider before signing the dotted line. These areas include practicality, safety, frugality and maintenance. Let us jump in to find out how these Audi models perform in those areas.
Audi A1
The A1 is the entry point to the vast Audi model range. The base derivative or rather A1 Sportback 30TFSI offers seating for five and 335-litres of luggage space which makes it a practical choice for individuals and small families. In terms of safety, occupants can expect six airbags and ISOFIX mounting points while the driver benefits from ABS brakes with electronic brake assists, traction control, stability control as well as hill-start assist.
Under the bonnet features a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder, turbocharged, petrol engine producing 85 kW and 200 Nm of torque. Audi claims this engine in combination with the 7-speed automated dual-clutch transmission will return an average fuel consumption figure of 4.8 L / 100 km. Included in the price is a 1-year / unlimited-kilometre warranty as well as a 5-year / 100 000 km maintenance plan.
Audi Q2
Although built on the A3 platform, the Audi Q2 35TFSI Launch Edition comes in at a little more affordable price than its hatch and sedan siblings. As with the A1, the Q2 offer seating for five, however, comes with more luggage space, rated at 405-litres and with more ground clearance, making it quite a practical choice. The driver benefits from the same safety systems as with the A1, however, the Q2 omits the traction control system.
As with the A1, Q2 owners can expect six airbags and ISOFIX mounting points on the interior. In terms of frugality, Audi says the Q2 in 35TFSI Launch Edition guise should return an average fuel consumption figure of 6.1 L / 100 km from the 1.4-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged, petrol engine that produces 110 kW and 250 Nm of torque. Once again owners can expect a 1-year / unlimited-kilometre warranty as well as a 5-year / 100 000 km maintenance plan to be included in the purchase price.
Audi A3
Not only does the A3 share a platform configuration with the Q2 but in the base 35TFSI guise, an engine too. However, regardless of whether the A3 is configured in Sportback or sedan form, both entry-level offerings come with an 8-speed automatic transmission. As you would expect the performance figures are 110 kW and 250 Nm while average fuel consumption returns are claimed to be between 6.1 L and 6.2 L / 100 km.
Similar to its compact siblings, the A3 is outfitted with six airbags and ISOFIX mounting points, as well as ABS brakes with electronic brake assists, traction control, stability control, hill-start assist and an electromechanical parking brake. While both the sedan and Sportback derivatives offer seating for five, the latter comes with 380-litres of luggage space, whereas the sedan provides for 425-litres with the seats up. As can be expected, a 1-year / unlimited-kilometre warranty, as well as a 5-year / 100 000 km maintenance plan, are included in the purchase price.
Verdict
Just considering the practicality, safety, frugality and maintenance offered by these three entry-level offerings from Audi, one can easily conclude that Audi vehicles make for good first cars, that is if it fits into your budget. If not, why not consider a used Audi model on AutoTrader.
Keyword: Are Audi good first cars?