SINCE it launched on Australian turf in the late 90s, Audi’s little A3 has only ever featured as a hatchback – renamed in Audi parlance as Sportback – and a chopped-top cabriolet, but now buyers have a range-first sedan version to choose from too.

Not only does the entry $39,800 1.4 TFSI have a $10,000 advantage over its nominal Mercedes-Benz rival, the $49,900 CLA 200, but it is also priced in the sort of territory that will have more mainstream brands paying attention.

A fiery version will roll-out later this year when the big-boot S3 arrives, but until then we will have to make-do with the more sedate A3 sedan range comprised of two turbo petrols and a diesel – read on for the drive impressions after the jump.

Suffice to say, though, we walked away impressed that the German brand can offer so much for so little.

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