REASSURING safety, extreme comfort and awesome power are just a few of the attributes that make the Audi A3 Sportback such a pleasure to drive.
From the outside I must admit the model does not really look that impressive considering it comes from the manufacturers of the eye-catching TT. But don't be fooled.
Once inside, it's a monster and despite having beautifully smooth automatic gear shifts at your disposal, it is great fun to just stamp down on the power and feel it go - thankfully the headrests are very well positioned!
Inside features are very design-led, from the smart red leather seats and leather-trimmed steering wheel to the ideally located instrument panel.
The Sportback is also deceptively spacious with plenty of room for four adults to sit comfortably rather than in the foetal position like in some similar market class vehicles.
And the boot has plenty of luggage space too along with a collection of little storage compartments throughout. This space is increased thanks to the split folding rear seats.
As with all Audi models, there is a very solid feel to the Sportback from the reinforced body frame, to the sturdy looking front end. Even the doors feel quite heavy, although they can spring back on you as you are getting out if you are not careful.
The Sportback, as one would expect, boasts a full range of safety specifications from anti-lock brakes, with electronic stability programme to a host of airbags offering driver and passenger all-round safety.
But in my opinion, the real beauty of this model is the drive. It offers excellent road-holding both in and around town and on the more open road, and the acceleration and steering are really impressive.
And due to its size and good all-round driver visibility, manoeuvrability and parking are made easy.
All in all, sales for this model should really take off - along with the car itself if you are not careful!
FAST FACTS
Audi A3 2.0T FSI Sport DSG 5dr
Price: £22,970
Mechanical: 200bhp, 1,984cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 6spd automatic gearbox
Max speed: 146mph
0-62mph: 7 secs
Combined mpg: 35.8
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 190g/km
BiK rating: 25%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 12yrs anti-rust