Review
A tiny instrument symbol is proving to generate an increasing amount of interest as the test mileage grows on our A3 e-tron. Designed to switch on only to show that the car’s petrol engine is in action, it remains out of sight for at least 25 miles after a full charge of the battery pack, which is what you’d expect in a vehicle that also has an electric motor.
But what is surprising is the amount of time the symbol also remains hidden from view once the initial charge has been used up. After appearing as the engine takes over from the electric motor, it vanishes each time clever gadgetry reclaims power. This happens when pressure is eased on the accelerator to put the transmission into coast mode, during overrun on gentle motorway slopes, when driving downhill and every time the brakes are applied.
Each of these actions combine to reclaim a useful amount of energy. Experience so far is suggesting the ‘every little helps’ mantra is making for worthwhile savings and as the test approaches the 3,000-mile mark, the car’s average return is on the better side of 60mpg
Another surprise is the silky smooth transmission.
Author:
Maurice Glover
Specs
Manufacturer | Audi |
Model | A3 |
Specification | Isuzu D-Max Diesel 1.9 DL40 Double Cab 4x4 |
Model Year | 2025.00 |
Annual VED (Road tax) | £1005 |
BIK List Price | £35,988 |
CO2 | 227g/km |
BIK Percentage | 20% |
Insurance Group | N/A |
CC | 1,898 |
Fuel Type | Petrol Hybrid |
Vehicle Type | Pick-up |
Luggage capacity (Seats up) | N/A |
Running Costs
P11D | £35,988 |
Cost per mile | 58.04ppm |
Residual value | £15,650 |
Insurance group | N/A |
Fuel Type | Petrol Hybrid |
Cost per mile | 58.04ppm |
Fuel | 18.42ppm |
Depreciation | 33.99ppm |
Service maintenance and repair | 5.63ppm |
Info at a glance
-
P11D Price
£35,988
-
MPG
32.5 (WLTP) -
CO2 Emissions
227g/km -
BIK %
20% -
Running cost
3 Year 60k : £15,650 4 Year 80k : £12,075 -
Fuel Type
Petrol Hybrid