Skip advert
Advertisement

VW Golf GTD Vs Audi A3 TDI

VW’s new Golf GTD promises hot hatch pace and fuel-sipping diesel efficiency. We pitch it against its Audi A3 cousin, with an identical engine, to see which is better...

The Golf GTI needs no introduction – but here’s a hot Volkswagen with a different combination of letters on its tailgate.

The new GTD has a punchy diesel engine under its bonnet, and aims to mix sharp handling and strong performance with excellent fuel economy. Hot diesel versions of VW’s legendary family car are nothing new, but the sixth-generation model is the fastest yet.

Advertisement - Article continues below

It takes its styling cues from the GTI, has a powerful 2.0-litre TDI engine and is available with three or five doors. But will its heavier diesel unit compromise the class-leading dynamic abilities that make the GTI so impressive?

The engineers at VW sister firm Audi certainly don’t think so. They’ve slipped the same 168bhp unit into the A3 Sportback. In new Sport trim, it doesn’t look like an out-and-out hot-hatch, but is sure to appeal to buyers who prefer a more subtle approach.

Our contenders are separated by only a few hundred pounds on price and an even smaller margin in performance. So, which will come out on top?

Verdict

As our two contenders are so similar, you would expect this to be a close-run finish. But the VW and Audi have completely different characters. Although they share the same engine, have practical five-door bodies and feature high-quality cabins, they don’t go about their jobs in the same way.

Don’t be fooled by the subtle design of the A3 Sportback – behind its conservative exterior is a serious high-performance hatch. It’s fast, composed and refined, but doesn’t shout about its performance. The Audi also feels like a premium product... yet the VW is more sporty to look at, sit in and drive.

That’s why it wins. From behind the wheel, the Golf is more fun than the A3, but it’s also more frugal and refined. The smoother engine, more capable chassis and special cabin confirm the GTD as an incredibly desirable family car.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New cars that plummet in value can make brilliant used buys
Opinion - Vauxhall Corsa-e

New cars that plummet in value can make brilliant used buys

Editor Paul Barker takes a closer look at our 2024 Used Car Awards
Opinion
20 Nov 2024
A £10k electric car with a 100-mile range would surely be a sales success
Opinion - cheap EV

A £10k electric car with a 100-mile range would surely be a sales success

Mike Rutherford thinks there would be demand for an electric car with a modest 100-mile range if it only cost £10k
Opinion
17 Nov 2024
Best used cars to buy 2024
Best used cars 2024

Best used cars to buy 2024

From city cars to large SUVs, here’s our annual pick of the star performers that’ll save you thousands when you buy them used instead of new
Best cars & vans
20 Nov 2024