HubertK

BYD just overtaken Tesla for number of cars sold. Watched a video on youtube from a motoring journalist regarding BYD - he had some very interesting stories regarding this company and it's sales practices. Won't be long before Chinese cars take over the British market, looking at What Car data in the back of the magazine the number of Chinese brands seem to grow every month. Mercedes' new CLA i c engined now uses a Chinese built engine as opposed to the Renault engines used previously.

I can understand your sceptisism, when my car was in for service they had an A3 saloon in the progressive red on the forecourt. You could only tell it was metallic in bright sunshine otherwise it does appear solid on the shady side. Skoda do a similar colour (velvet red) likewise appears solid under some conditions. However, the velvet red paint on the Skoda is an extra over and above metallic paint option.

Did seriously think about it but ones I've seen are higher mileage than my saloon and am looking to buy ex demo or pre-reg.

Had my 35tdi for 3 years, never regretted buying it. I like the sublime comfort and quietness making long journeys a real pleasure and as for the economy it's amazing long term average is now 64 mpg with well over 70 on long runs in summer. I have the saloon which has a very large boot especially with the seats folded, got a 6' x 3' fence panel in ! My only regret now, is not buying one of the last A4 avants as a replacement.

Hi Steve Thanks for the welcome. I am considering downsizing to an A3, had one in the past and enjoyed it, or perhaps a Q2 while they are still available. My only concern is the 1.5 tfsi engine, having had a very bad experience with one when they first came out replacing the 1.4. That car was really unsafe with it's hesitant power delivery especially when trying to judge a gap in traffic. It also "kangaroo" hopped when cold. For those of a certain age - it was like driving a car without a choke. The garage just kept promising software updates but after two months I'd had enough so went back to diesel power. Don't want a repeat, I notice that they are all automatics now which probably masks the old problems. Going to be a tough call as the A4 (mine is in Technik trim) is so comfortable and quiet with the comfort suspension and standard tyres making long journeys a real pleasure. Will post when I have finally decided.

Hi to all forum users. I own an Audi A4 35tdi which for the last 3 years has been totally reliable, a great car. I am, however, looking to change. Unfortunately, I am not impressed with the new A5 which would have been an obvious replacement, due to the amount of shiny black plastic in the cockpit. I would like to stay with the brand though, so will be considering other models.