Ford Focus v Audi A3
Discussion
Looking for advice - how does an Ford Focus compare with Audi A3? in terms of running costs, reliability etc.
reason I ask is that I have test driven both of them - but really can't make up my mind which to go for.
anyone's thoughts from people who may have owned both cars would be appreciated.
reason I ask is that I have test driven both of them - but really can't make up my mind which to go for.
anyone's thoughts from people who may have owned both cars would be appreciated.
It would really help if we knew which age, model etc you had in consideration. There's a big difference in age terms especially and, if it's 10+ year old cars you're looking at then you should probably just shop on condition.
I've owned higher spec A/S3s for 12 years (2006 to 2018 models), having previously been a bit sniffy about them. I've also driven various specs and ages of Focus extensively on business mileage during the same time period.
I think the A3 works as a sensible package across most of the range. A lot will come down to personal tastes - I've always found them refined and competent. The entry price will typically be higher than a Focus, though I've found they usually cost the same or less than an equivalent Golf. I find A3s are strongest where they offer something unique to the sector - e.g. a less-sporting-than-a-GTI 2.0T, 4WD drivetrain, luxo equipment etc - but the lower specs can be quite sweet too.
The various Focus models I've driven always have a positivity and nice weight to the drive that's evident within a few moments. They are unquestionably a downgrade inside the cabin though and the 2013-on 8V A3s are pretty good to drive, too. Depending one age and budget, you probably stand a better chance of finding an optioned-up and pampered A3 though there are plenty of both models out there. Focus definitely has the lower cost of entry.
Costs, reliability etc? Probably the same, given equivalent drivetrains.
I've owned higher spec A/S3s for 12 years (2006 to 2018 models), having previously been a bit sniffy about them. I've also driven various specs and ages of Focus extensively on business mileage during the same time period.
I think the A3 works as a sensible package across most of the range. A lot will come down to personal tastes - I've always found them refined and competent. The entry price will typically be higher than a Focus, though I've found they usually cost the same or less than an equivalent Golf. I find A3s are strongest where they offer something unique to the sector - e.g. a less-sporting-than-a-GTI 2.0T, 4WD drivetrain, luxo equipment etc - but the lower specs can be quite sweet too.
The various Focus models I've driven always have a positivity and nice weight to the drive that's evident within a few moments. They are unquestionably a downgrade inside the cabin though and the 2013-on 8V A3s are pretty good to drive, too. Depending one age and budget, you probably stand a better chance of finding an optioned-up and pampered A3 though there are plenty of both models out there. Focus definitely has the lower cost of entry.
Costs, reliability etc? Probably the same, given equivalent drivetrains.
mawallace said:
I'm looking at an audi 35 this manual, s line or Ford focus 2.0 150 bhp diesel, not sure of trim, probably s line or titanium x
Are you buying new or lightly used? How much are you planning to spend? The reason I ask is that you may be able to get a Vignale for the same money.I'd probably go for the more nicely spec'd Focus with the bonus that it's a nicer steer to.
I’ve not been a fan of the Focus since the Mark 1. The mark 3 felt very cheap inside to me and depending on the model year the stereo and controls could be over complicated. I think they were improved on later models but I still didn’t like the interior. An equivalent is a Volvo V40, originally based on the same underpinnings but the interiors are way better, the R Design models look great.
And if you’re looking at the Audi A3 also consider the Seat Leon and Skoda Octavia, again same underpinnings but you might get a better spec.
And if you’re looking at the Audi A3 also consider the Seat Leon and Skoda Octavia, again same underpinnings but you might get a better spec.
Dynamically, the Focus is the class leader for handling and as others say, you’ll get a better spec on a newish one for the same money as the A3. I’ve been looking out for a pre reg ST diesel to replace my wife’s car. You can get them for about £22k which I think is decent value for an economical, 190hp hatchback.
Our current Mk3 focus has done 160k miles from new and hasn’t put a foot wrong.
Our current Mk3 focus has done 160k miles from new and hasn’t put a foot wrong.
Edited by anonymous-user on Monday 19th April 14:15
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