Standard kit on the new car includes climate control, satnav, electric parking brake and Bluetooth, while the SE model adds features such as automatic headlights and wipers, parking sensors and an auto dimming rear view mirror. As the standard specification will be only available on the lowest-powered 122PS engines, the SE is likely to be the most popular option.
It is easy to see why the 143PS diesel will be desirable, as it is more than competent both on the motorway and around town, while the overall feeling of stability is aided by a new longer wheelbase – 154mm longer than its predecessor.
Faults are hard to find, but the biggest gripe we have comes with the ride quality. Perhaps it is just being fussy as interior finish, equipment and space is to such a high standard, but the jolts and jerks of UK B-roads could have been dealt with better.
Despite the claim that volume aspirations are to remain the same for 2008, overtaking BMW‘s 3-series is surely the next goal. However, with a predicted cost of 30.2 pence per mile to the 318d’s 31.4, Audi is more than well equipped to continue the tussle for the title of UK’s top premium brand.
