Changing to Audi: Thoughts and input!

[Roady]

I'm a 29 year old ex-computer engineer from mid-wales (now currently farming until i find something else to do) and i used to use my car for on-site work doing 25-30k a year so i've always owned a diesel.

I currently drive a '53 Ford Focus TDCI Sport (my second focus) and i love it to bits, but now she's getting a bit older (and done over 80k) i fancy something with a few more creature comforts - as the focus is fairly basic inside! It's a really nice 'drivers' car and i love the size so i've naturally been looking at the A3/S3, although i really do like the look of an A4 in the estate! (Help! Is that old age setting in?! )

I would prefer to stay part of the dark-side (diesel) but i won't be doing the miles i used to (probably more 15-20k pa) but i would like a car thats fun to drive and fairly rewarding around the twisty A-roads around here... (I'm over an hour away from any motorway)

Money wise i'm looking at spending 10-12k, or there abouts. And i probably wouldn't buy anything more than 3-4 years old!

Would really like input from others who've changed to Audi and really peoples experiences with the A3/Sportback/S3 compared to other hatchbacks (especially any previous Focus owners!)

Thanks!

[kodkod.84]

Hey mate I am 24 and have an A4 Avant- there is definitely nothing grandad about these, so don't be worried about that!

I am on my 2nd one now, the first I had was a 1.9TDI diesel and very economical. The A4 is a good car to be in if you are doing lots of miles and in Avant form it is more practical than the saloon although it is definitely not a car for lugging lots of stuff around in. The S-Line is the one to go for if you like a sportier drive/look. If not the SE benefits from softer suspension and cruise control as standard.

I can't comment on the A3 but I have a MK5 Golf which is also a very good drive, the A3 will probably be very similar but with a better interior.

10-12k should open you up to a good selection of cars within the Audi A3 or A4 range.

Whatever Audi you choose- I'm sure you'll be happy with it

[dieseljames]

It's deffo a step in the right direction. The only one who can decide if they are any good is yourself - you have a very good budget and so my advice is to take your time and try out a few, different models and trims.

Good luck with your car search.

[onemanparty]

I would prefer to stay part of the dark-side (diesel) but i won't be doing the miles i used to (probably more 15-20k pa) but i would like a car thats fun to drive and fairly rewarding around the twisty A-roads around here... (I'm over an hour away from any motorway)

Money wise i'm looking at spending 10-12k, or there abouts. And i probably wouldn't buy anything more than 3-4 years old!

Would really like input from others who've changed to Audi and really peoples experiences with the A3/Sportback/S3 compared to other hatchbacks (especially any previous Focus owners!)

Thanks!

Well I have had 7 Audi A3's including 3 S3's - All I can say is I loved them all.

I have only had 2 problems with my A3's Turbo on an A3 2.0TDI DSG and people damaging one of my S3's

What are you looking for 10/12K Spec etc...

I would also post this in the A3 Section to get more views