Eric's Autos: Reviewing the 2016 Audi A3 TDI
If you've been considering a diesel-powered, compact-sized entry-luxury sedan, you might want to consider this: The 2016 Audi A3 TDI's city mileage is nearly as good as the Mercedes CLA250's highway mileage. And the Audi's highway mileage (43 MPG) is 10-15 MPG better. So says the EPA.
In real-world driving, you will find the Audi TDI's mileage is usually better than the EPA says. Hypermilers have reported mid-high 50s, which is better than a Prius hybrid. But does it matter to people who shop cars in this class?
More finely put: Does it matter enough to overcome the Quickness Difference between the A3 TDI and gas-engined rivals like the CLA250 and the Acura ILX?
WHAT IT IS
The A3 is Audi's entry-level compact sedan. It's also sold in convertible coupe (cabriolet) and (soon) Sportback versions, but the TDI diesel engine is restricted to the sedan version. Still, it's currently the only car in its class available with a high-mileage diesel engine. Base price is $33,200 - topping out at $42,050 for a Prestige trim.
The Audi's competition includes Mercedes' CLA250 sedan ($31,500-$33,500) but the Benz doesn't offer a diesel. It does, however, offer an ultra-performance turbocharged gas engine (in the CLA45 AMG) but it stickers for $48,500.
You might also want to cross-shop the Acura ILX - which splits the difference. It's less expensive than either the Audi or the Benz - $27,900 to start; $34,890 loaded - and gets better mileage than the Mercedes while being speedier than the Audi.
Both the CLA and the ILX are only sold in sedan form, though - and the Acura doesn't offer all-wheel-drive (it's optional in the Audi and also available in the Mercedes).
WHAT'S NEW
The really big news is the addition of the Sportback bodystyle - which will feature a new "e-tron" hybrid powertrain - but there are significant trim and options changes for the new model year, too - including an S-Line appearance package that adds LED lighting (exterior and interior ambient) as well as power-folding outside rearview mirrors, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and in-car WiFi, an upgraded GPS system and Google Earth topographical mapping.
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