Recommendations wanted as to an alternative for an Audi A3

FlameCloud

If you can wait the new A-Class looks lovely.

jaydeeuk1

Man up and get an alfa. A giulette for example.
Forget all you've read about shoddy build on alfas, this ones a different kettle of fish.

Johnmcl7

interstellaflyer wrote: »

I stand corrected, the Octavia used to be based on the A4/Passat platform but I guess that's changed since the introduction of the Superb.

No, the first Octavia used the PQ34 platform the same as the Mk IV Golf/A3 mk 1 while the Mk II Octavia uses the PQ35 platform the same as the Mk V/VI Golf, A3 Mk 2 etc.

It gets a bit confusing when you bring the Superb and Passat into it, the current Passat is actually on the same platform as the Octavia, A3, Golf etc. it's just stretched a bit for the bigger Passat and Superb Mk II which is the PQ46 chassis. It's actually a completely different chassis to the Audi A4 which uses the PL46 platform despite the similar size, the Audi uses a longitudinal engine mounting while the Superb/Passat/Golf/Octavia etc. are transverse engines.

Previously the A4, Passat and Mk I Superb did share a similar platform as you've said with the Superb getting a stretched version of the chassis (intended for a stretched Passat to be sold in China) so it's not straightforward.

When choosing my current car I tried the A3 and the Octavia and preferred the Octavia, the cabin does feel cheaper but the two cars do share a lot of parts (both internal switch gear and parts plus the mechanics underneath) and the Octavia is far more practical particularly the estate. It lacks the four wheel drive but that does help with fuel efficiency.

John

Trebor16

interstellaflyer wrote: »

I stand corrected, the Octavia used to be based on the A4/Passat platform but I guess that's changed since the introduction of the Superb.

Not at all, the original Octavia introduced back in 1998 or thereabouts was based on the Golf platform and has never been Passat/A4 based.

andy8442

VW Golf Match Bluemotion.

FlameCloud

jaydeeuk1 wrote: »

Man up and get an alfa. A giulette for example.
Forget all you've read about shoddy build on alfas, this ones a different kettle of fish.

The problem with it though is that for the OP (and myself, come mid summer) is leasing the car. That means if you want options on it they will cost.

I would have an Alfa Guiletta in a second if they did a model with Sat Nav, Leather, Parking systems etc in one high end model, as you can then lease it for a lot less than a base one with the options added on.

For me, this is why BMW's are non goers as well.