New Member - General advice

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Hertsman

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Good Morning

Been running a VW MK 7 GTD for last 2.5 years and time has come to look at next change and there are two cars considering the MK 7 Golf R or an Audi A3 190 BHP (new engine) S Line Quattro Sportback.

Realise these are a little apart in performance but the economy/options/specification debate is still going on in my head, as well as maybe just changing the cabin experience for the next 3 years.

Its a win win choice really, but do need to be more informed on the A3 as there is a knowledge hole with regards the suspension

Know this area is a little subjective but its still be good to have the consensus view from those who have owned the 8 V Models.

Had an early 8 P A3 Quattro S Line and with the S Line suspension and could not wait to get rid of it in the last year due to the hard ride. Ticking the S Line suspension was worst decision ever made as even though loved the car and she looked great on this setting, it really was unbearable.

Have been running the new active DCC on the Golf and have loved it, such a smooth ride with option to firm up to sport and works brilliantly.

But doubt money will run to the magnetic ride so it will be the standard options, of the Sport or the SE so is the 8 V improved over the 8 P and is it Sport or SE the best option? Does the SE look too high also as aesthetics are important to.

Also it mentions in the face lift article that read here, that ride has been improved? has anyone got any insight to that?

This is big decision for me as carry passenger relatively regularly and decent ride quality is high on list.

My must have criteria

4 wheel drive - even with new tyres than previously awful bridgestones do REALLY miss the get off the line grip
Comfortable Ride - Not looking for Rolls Royce just not continual crashing or discomfort
Parking Sensors
Folding Mirrors
Heated Seats
Apple Connect
Decent Performance - 190 bhp is not shabby (GTi Lite) and perfectly acceptable for UK driving so if can put a decent car around that engine then moving away from the Golf R would not be too wrenching on this aspect
S Tronic + Auto Hold - Have both in the GTD and perfect combination, the new 7 speed wet gearbox sounds like a good lift
Xenon Lights - Would like LED but they seem really steep in £ and as long as decent would rather spend money on cabin and comforts.
Interior Light Package - One of reasons being lured to A3 is the interior and from all that read this adds to the classy ambience

Nice to have (but if too costly will not worry too much)

Have the ACC on the Golf and rarely use it, great tech but not for me, but would have liked the option to have the collision protection it brings as a separate - Find the packages a little confusing in general, so something need to still get head around
Reverse Camera - function quite well with just sensors
Debadging - not clear what is removed - would quite like to just have quattro on the back and nothing else, but that is not the options?
Virtual Cockpit - Like the Audi dials, classy, but would I like this? really not sure, likely not as a high cost option as the dials look great? - thoughts on virtual cockpits?

Keyless

Not Bothered

Park assist
Upgraded Stereo - listen to radio mostly and standard units more than good enough quality for car environment and journey types
All the other 'assistance' packages, call me old fashioned but the driver drives the car and makes all the actions (as stated above would like the passive front end collision as standalone)

Other dilemma is colour, the most subjective of debates, so this will be fully on me, but its Glacier White, Daytona Grey with or without Black Styling -

S3 would be considered but likely bare specification for me, and so really rules it out as would like some comforts, or the Golf R with just DCC and Pretoria or the face lifted A3 as outlined above? End oif May is when have to make the decision.

Any advisement and comments be appreciated as all go into the melting pot.
 
I have an 8V on sport suspension and it is a great balance. Tried the SE and it wasn't firm enough. Tried the S-line and it was too firm. I find the Sport set up suits the car very well and I'd happily spec it again.
 
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Hertsman said:
Good Morning

Been running a VW MK 7 GTD for last 2.5 years and time has come to look at next change and there are two cars considering the MK 7 Golf R or an Audi A3 190 BHP (new engine) S Line Quattro Sportback.

Realise these are a little apart in performance but the economy/options/specification debate is still going on in my head, as well as maybe just changing the cabin experience for the next 3 years.

Its a win win choice really, but do need to be more informed on the A3 as there is a knowledge hole with regards the suspension

Know this area is a little subjective but its still be good to have the consensus view from those who have owned the 8 V Models.

Had an early 8 P A3 Quattro S Line and with the S Line suspension and could not wait to get rid of it in the last year due to the hard ride. Ticking the S Line suspension was worst decision ever made as even though loved the car and she looked great on this setting, it really was unbearable.

Have been running the new active DCC on the Golf and have loved it, such a smooth ride with option to firm up to sport and works brilliantly.

But doubt money will run to the magnetic ride so it will be the standard options, of the Sport or the SE so is the 8 V improved over the 8 P and is it Sport or SE the best option? Does the SE look too high also as aesthetics are important to.

Also it mentions in the face lift article that read here, that ride has been improved? has anyone got any insight to that?

This is big decision for me as carry passenger relatively regularly and decent ride quality is high on list.

My must have criteria

4 wheel drive - even with new tyres than previously awful bridgestones do REALLY miss the get off the line grip
Comfortable Ride - Not looking for Rolls Royce just not continual crashing or discomfort
Parking Sensors
Folding Mirrors
Heated Seats
Apple Connect
Decent Performance - 190 bhp is not shabby (GTi Lite) and perfectly acceptable for UK driving so if can put a decent car around that engine then moving away from the Golf R would not be too wrenching on this aspect
S Tronic + Auto Hold - Have both in the GTD and perfect combination, the new 7 speed wet gearbox sounds like a good lift
Xenon Lights - Would like LED but they seem really steep in £ and as long as decent would rather spend money on cabin and comforts.
Interior Light Package - One of reasons being lured to A3 is the interior and from all that read this adds to the classy ambience

Nice to have (but if too costly will not worry too much)

Have the ACC on the Golf and rarely use it, great tech but not for me, but would have liked the option to have the collision protection it brings as a separate - Find the packages a little confusing in general, so something need to still get head around
Reverse Camera - function quite well with just sensors
Debadging - not clear what is removed - would quite like to just have quattro on the back and nothing else, but that is not the options?
Virtual Cockpit - Like the Audi dials, classy, but would I like this? really not sure, likely not as a high cost option as the dials look great? - thoughts on virtual cockpits?

Keyless

Not Bothered

Park assist
Upgraded Stereo - listen to radio mostly and standard units more than good enough quality for car environment and journey types
All the other 'assistance' packages, call me old fashioned but the driver drives the car and makes all the actions (as stated above would like the passive front end collision as standalone)

Other dilemma is colour, the most subjective of debates, so this will be fully on me, but its Glacier White, Daytona Grey with or without Black Styling -

S3 would be considered but likely bare specification for me, and so really rules it out as would like some comforts, or the Golf R with just DCC and Pretoria or the face lifted A3 as outlined above? End oif May is when have to make the decision.

Any advisement and comments be appreciated as all go into the melting pot.
Click to expand...

Hi and welcome to the forum mate :)

I think you might swing an S3 if you spec with comfort pack and ILP, neither are particularly expensive options and cover most of your criteria. As regards the other 2 car considerations I'll let other members guide as I haven't driven either.
 
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Simon L said:
Hi and welcome to the forum mate :)

I think you might swing an S3 if you spec with comfort pack and ILP, neither are particularly expensive options and cover most of your criteria. As regards the other 2 car considerations I'll let other members guide as I haven't driven either.
Click to expand...

Thank you for welcome and response, appreciated!

When the Audi configuration is updated in May will specify the S3 also as it does not seem as far away as thought.

So it would likely be just parking sensors, auto hold, comfort package and the lighting package as options.

There is a £325 option on S3 to have red calipers with S3 logo so obviously not standard then?
 
Last edited:
Scottyg said:
I have an 8V on sport suspension and it is a great balance. Tried the SE and it wasn't firm enough. Tried the S-line and it was too firm. I find the Sport set up suits the car very well and I'd happily spec it again.
Click to expand...

The Sport on the GTD is acceptable but it is on these active dampers, and usually reserved for some decent open roads/lanes, the 'normal' setting is my preferred long distance driving option and comfort is my town setting but can be a little wallowing on motorways with passengers sometimes complaining of car sickness. Its very cossetted

Like the ride to be in the normal range that used to now, so think test drive is likely going to be a must really.
 
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Hertsman said:
Thank you for welcome and response, appreciated!

When the Audi configuration is updated in May will specify the S3 also as it does not seem as far away as thought.

So it would likely be just parking sensors, auto hold, comfort package and the lighting package as options.

There is a £325 option on S3 to have red calipers with S3 logo so obviously not standard then?
Click to expand...

Not standard mate no, and the biggest waste of money option of all time..........just my opinion though (well a fair few others agree on that one tbh!)
 
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Hertsman said:
Thank you for welcome and response, appreciated!

When the Audi configuration is updated in May will specify the S3 also as it does not seem as far away as thought.

So it would likely be just parking sensors, auto hold, comfort package and the lighting package as options.

There is a £325 option on S3 to have red calipers with S3 logo so obviously not standard then?
Click to expand...

That front calipers come with the S3 branding as standard. The £325 option is for the red paint ..... (Yup, expensive)
Image
 
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I had the S-Line suspension on my last Audi 8p and opted for the sport suspension on my current 8v and there is a significant difference between the two but for the better in my opinion.

Our little one was always sick in the last Audi due to the crashy ride but rides the bumps a lot better now.
 
That's another decision ticked off then as think the black calipers with the S3 logo actually look much better and more in line with the understated performance and at £325 its an easy decision, thats the auto hold and light package paid for!
 
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jbs2472 said:
I had the S-Line suspension on my last Audi 8p and opted for the sport suspension on my current 8v and there is a significant difference between the two but for the better in my opinion.

Our little one was always sick in the last Audi due to the crashy ride but rides the bumps a lot better now.
Click to expand...

The frame is now the MQB so the hope is that would be the case as shared your pain, literally! Exactly the feedback hoping for from someone with direct experience of both.

Think Sport from my GTD experience and comments here will be the final choice but the S Line completely took the enjoyment out of driving hence really doing the due diligence on this aspect.
 
I was fortunate enough to be able to test all three variants (SE, Sport and S-Line) of suspension when purchasing my 8V so made the decision easier
 
Simon L said:
Hi and welcome to the forum mate :)

I think you might swing an S3 if you spec with comfort pack and ILP, neither are particularly expensive options and cover most of your criteria. As regards the other 2 car considerations I'll let other members guide as I haven't driven either.
Click to expand...

Welcome to the forum, @Simon L has got it spot on, go get yourself a nice long test drive in A/S3 and if build quality is important to you you wont ever want to get back in a Golf . A friend has a new GTD and hoping from one to the other when parked side by side is like chalk and cheese

Not sure if you are buying outright or on some sort of finance but before I hit the go button on the S3 I was looking at the 184 BHP 2.0TDI Quattro but when I compared it like for like with an S3 (you get things like heated seats and Al pedals thrown in on the S3 compared to the A3 quattro) it was a no brainer. Can't remember the exact figures but for me it worked out about £1000 -£1500 more for an extra 110BHP and a huge Free of Charge grin

Also worth noting the S3 gives you progressive steering as standard (is an option on the other models). Is not everyones cup of tea but I really like it TBH. @veeeight might have a different opinion though :)
 
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Daveotto said:
Welcome to the forum, @Simon L has got it spot on, go get yourself a nice long test drive in A/S3 and if build quality is important to you you wont ever want to get back in a Golf . A friend has a new GTD and hoping from one to the other when parked side by side is like chalk and cheese

Not sure if you are buying outright or on some sort of finance but before I hit the go button on the S3 I was looking at the 184 BHP 2.0TDI Quattro but when I compared it like for like with an S3 (you get things like heated seats and Al pedals thrown in on the S3 compared to the A3 quattro) it was a no brainer. Can't remember the exact figures but for me it worked out about £1000 -£1500 more for an extra 110BHP and a huge Free of Charge grin

Also worth noting the S3 gives you progressive steering as standard (is an option on the other models). Is not everyones cup of tea but I really like it TBH. @veeeight might have a different opinion though :)
Click to expand...

Some of the tech you mention is on the GTD, all the performance Golfs have decent standard options. To be honest have really enjoyed the GTD, its decent enough inside and for performance/economy balance is a winning one if do decent miles. The GTD is the exact same 184 bhp engine you mentioned and in mid range it really picks up and fly's and is no slouch off the line, in dry!! even with new tyres it scrabbles like a mad thing in the wet, but now Bridgestone gone at least moving forward :)

The progressive steering is on the GTD and really like it, so again its a little lean to the S3 as realising more options standard that i personally desire than thought.

If out of my price the new 190 bhp would not be dismissed, as still get the Quattro my main driver really,

With role change my miles have halved and so petrol is now an option and my ££'s to spend has marginally increased to, bringing the S3, Golf R onto my shopping list. - It will be a lease either via company or private (we have choice to take the money), not decided yet, depends who gives me best deal for the ££'s though will likely avoid PCP if go private

My previous Audi was MY10 A3 Sline 2.0 TDi 170 bhp Quattro but know the technology has moved on since then so treating my selection process as completely new.

Was in Audi garage last week and there was a red S3 so did have a good look and the interior is far better than the Golf, which in itself is decent, but there is a marked lift. One thing that stood out was the dials, loved them, and was not overly wowed by the virtual cockpit in the TT which am sure is great functionally but definitely not something pay for when A3/S3 dials look so good.

Until the new Audi go up on the configurator am on hold really but should be pretty informed when start specifying and we see where the ££'s roll around to against the 3 cars (was 2, so already up to 3 due to this post)
 
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From the launch info for the FL A3 you will pleased to know that LED headlights and the Interior light package will be standard on S-Line models, and some of the contents of the comfort pack will also be standard (cruise control and auto lights and wipers).
 
Daveotto said:
What dealer were you at, given your screen name @Hertsman so assuming you are in Hertfordshire so we could be close and you might have used the same dealer
Click to expand...

Actually made the trip to Milton Keynes as the dealers that wanted to look at in VW, Audi, Mercedes and BMW all have large dealerships and just more cars to see than the local garages.

BMW just does not do it for me, want to like them, but just cannot, was even finding loads of fault with the 135i that was in there in burnt orange.

Know the Golf inside out, so it was just a nose around really.

Mercedes, the interior of A series is too claustrophobic and just feel uncomfortable in the cabin,

The Audi garage had the full range, even an R8 and the S3 in red which really liked, and as soon as saw face lift was coming out and for a face lift quite an expansive one, then Audi interest if full now. Its a real nice dealership to browse, easy to find, easy to park and lots of cars to see.
 
Mark_R said:
From the launch info for the FL A3 you will pleased to know that LED headlights and the Interior light package will be standard on S-Line models, and some of the contents of the comfort pack will also be standard (cruise control and auto lights and wipers).
Click to expand...

It was not totally clear what was still options and what was not, so if thats the case then more decisions are being removed, though will the standard price lift as a result? (in essence paying for these anyway) or are these 'standard' fits to keep Audi competitive? The passive protection that ACC gives would have been disappointing to lose, so having the ACC as standard is a nice bonus as is the LED lights, and seems that I am lucky with my timing on my change coming at same time Audi makes tangible differences to the A3

Thanks for response, all really helps as if not informed its a lot of money to have spent on something you get wrong (my previous failed S Line suspension choice being my personal reminder to do my research)
 
Its the basic CC thats now standard not the ACC. The price is due to rise, my dealer told me the cost of the S-Line will rise by approx £1500. But they have also told me because I ordered mine at the beginning of March (not wanting it till September) the discounted price I got will be the price I pay.
 
Mark_R said:
Its the basic CC thats now standard not the ACC. The price is due to rise, my dealer told me the cost of the S-Line will rise by approx £1500. But they have also told me because I ordered mine at the beginning of March (not wanting it till September) the discounted price I got will be the price I pay.
Click to expand...

They giveth, they taketh, nothing is ever really free, but a win for you though :)

Standalone CC and not tied to ACC was on my wish list for them to produce given the tech is there, and that passive protection should really be a standard safety feature.
 
Welcome, of the cars you originally mentioned I'd opt for the Golf R, but you really should consider the S3.
The choice of course, is yours and you need to go drive the vehicles you are interested in. The R and S3 do drive differently, I troed both and was aware of each vehicles shortcomings, though they are relatively insignificant at 99.9 of your time on the road.

Look forward to hearing what you've gone for. I don't do too many miles and the change from a 184TDi A3 to S3 hasn't resulted in any significant increase in running costs. For me it's all about performance, I'd be happy to buy a car with no options and little luxury if the performance was there.
 
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steeve said:
Welcome, of the cars you originally mentioned I'd opt for the Golf R, but you really should consider the S3.
The choice of course, is yours and you need to go drive the vehicles you are interested in. The R and S3 do drive differently, I troed both and was aware of each vehicles shortcomings, though they are relatively insignificant at 99.9 of your time on the road.

Look forward to hearing what you've gone for. I don't do too many miles and the change from a 184TDi A3 to S3 hasn't resulted in any significant increase in running costs. For me it's all about performance, I'd be happy to buy a car with no options and little luxury if the performance was there.
Click to expand...

The GTD and the previous A3 TDi 170 bhp Quattro selections were selected as best compromise could achieve on economy/performance at the time as mileage dictated relatively decent economy but personally not wanting to overly sacrifice performance.

Think both managed that, the GTD more so, it really does balance ride/comfort/performance/economy and looks but none to the upper limits. Its best performance aspect is in the mid range as you know, but off the line without the Quattro its average/

Mileage and in turn mindset has changed and hence looking at the R as previous #1 option but maybe now the S3 over the 190 bhp engine thats coming which originally had in mind as solid option,

The cabin experience has me leaning to the S3 so my choice is quite narrow now its just seeing how ££'s stack up when Audi configuration is up and running on the face lift. Just checked and its early June that have to make my final selection so hopefully enough time to assess and find best prices.
 
audi upgrades
Differences between the Golf R and S3 are here:
http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/s3-vs-golf-r-wheel-alignment-handling.238462/

The other thing to note is that the superior ride and handling in the Golf R is mostly down to the DCC active electromechanical dampers on the R.

But note - the active dampers on the Golf R aren't the same (not mag ride) as the active dampers on the S3, they are a hydraulic electromechanical control system (VW), as opposed to magnetic control (Audi).


More on the suspension on the 8V:
http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/s3-springs-dampers-are-going.254378/
http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/s3-a3-ride-handling-honest-opinions.240977/
http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/coilovers-for-the-8v.241997/


And the steering rack between the Golf and 8V isn't comparable either. They are different steering racks, the Golf is more incisive, better turn in. I personally do not like the variable ratio rack on the S3, the standard rack ont he 1.4 is much better. But you can't de-select the option in the UK.


At the end of the day, you'll have to choose between a nicer (subjective) interior and a ride that is better suited to cruising on the motorways, or a better dynamic experience and more driver reward. The S3 does not do both. ;)
 
veeeight said:
Differences between the Golf R and S3 are here:
http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/s3-vs-golf-r-wheel-alignment-handling.238462/

The other thing to note is that the superior ride and handling in the Golf R is mostly down to the DCC active electromechanical dampers on the R.

But note - the active dampers on the Golf R aren't the same (not mag ride) as the active dampers on the S3, they are a hydraulic electromechanical control system (VW), as opposed to magnetic control (Audi).


More on the suspension on the 8V:
http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/s3-springs-dampers-are-going.254378/
http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/s3-a3-ride-handling-honest-opinions.240977/
http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/coilovers-for-the-8v.241997/


And the steering rack between the Golf and 8V isn't comparable either. They are different steering racks, the Golf is more incisive, better turn in. I personally do not like the variable ratio rack on the S3, the standard rack ont he 1.4 is much better. But you can't de-select the option in the UK.


At the end of the day, you'll have to choose between a nicer (subjective) interior and a ride that is better suited to cruising on the motorways, or a better dynamic experience and more driver reward. The S3 does not do both. ;)
Click to expand...

Really good read thank you, as certainly something not aware of, presumed the underneath was the same though did realise the adaptive damper tech was different.

Have lived with the DCC for 2.5 years and it's a v2 of the original and it's active at all times, it does not just change the settings.

The GTD is down on bhp and heavier at front due to diesel unit but the rude and handling is really good so even though R is going to be different I do at least have good idea of what to expect, a great driving car that will convert to comfort town car at press of buttons, though looking at 19 inch Pretoria with DCC if go Golf direction.

However, the facelift article mentions improved suspension, so is there any information on what has changed?

It's not going to be easiest of decisions, need firstly to see how stack up financially when specify then both up.

But more to the melting pot and in area have greatest concern, so thank you
 
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Going to be a short term visit to the board as have now ordered a 5 door DSG Lapiz Blue Golf R with Pretoria, DCC Keyless and a few other niceties.

All the above input did go into the melting pot so was much appreciated but financially and in the end preference from seeing both in flesh in same hour were too compelling and have pushed the button now :)

So decision made with and its onto the waiting game.

Thanks again everyone.
 
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Hertsman said:
Going to be a short term visit to the board as have now ordered a 5 door DSG Lapiz Blue Golf R with Pretoria, DCC Keyless and a few other niceties.

All the above input did go into the melting pot so was much appreciated but financially and in the end preference from seeing both in flesh in same hour were too compelling and have pushed the button now :)

So decision made with and its onto the waiting game.

Thanks again everyone.
Click to expand...
Good luck with your new car mate...:friends:
 
Hertsman said:
Going to be a short term visit to the board as have now ordered a 5 door DSG Lapiz Blue Golf R with Pretoria, DCC Keyless and a few other niceties.

All the above input did go into the melting pot so was much appreciated but financially and in the end preference from seeing both in flesh in same hour were too compelling and have pushed the button now :)

So decision made with and its onto the waiting game.

Thanks again everyone.
Click to expand...

All the best mate
 
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