Hi all

I've just joined this forum because, surprise surprise, I am interested in buying an A3 Sportback!

I had an opportunity to test drive the A3 Sportback (1.6 TDI Sport), Golf MK6 (1.6 TDI SE) and Leon (1.9 TDI SE) back-to-back, so comparisons would be fresh in my mind.

It's between the A3 or the Golf.

Both have very good interiors, although I think the A3's is very slightly better. It could be down to "brand" perception, mind you.

The new 1.6 TDI common rail engine isn't brisk, but that is more than made up for by impressive (claimed) fuel economy. It is also very smooth and quiet. It made the 1.9 TDI engine in the Leon feel VERY out of date.

The A3 definitely had sharper handling, although this came with a firmer ride. The Golf in comparison was very smooth even on bumpy roads and was generally quieter inside the cabin. So the Golf is better than the A3 in terms of refinement. But this could have been down to me testing a Sport vs SE.

I prefer the A3, but it costs more to get to the same equipment levels. The only niggle in the back of my mind is that the "new" A3 is based on a 5 year old platform albeit with a new engine, whereas the Golf is essentially a new design.

So it brings me to my question.... given that the A3 is due to be replaced in the next 12-18 months (correct me if I'm wrong here), what sort of discounts can I expect on the car? What have new owners here managed to secure?

Many thanks!