Audi A3 or Lexus CT 200h?

Hi,

I have a 2007 Toyota Auris Terra diesel that I am trading in. It has 87,000km on the clock and is in excellent condition. What it is worth? I was thinking of getting an Audi A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI S line or the Lexus CT 200h S Design. I found the suspension hard in the Lexus. Which would you recommend? 

Martina Kerins (Cork)

Jun 2011 Filed under: choosing new car

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Expert answer

Hi Martina, 

My feeling is that you will be offered between €10,000 - €11,000 for your Auris against either of these new cars and it's likely that your Lexus dealer will offer you the better deal. The Audi A3 is nearing the end of its life cycle, and while I like it a lot, it is due to be replaced so that will mean its value will reduce. The Lexus is really well priced and comes well equipped, but the ride quality is a little patchy at times. The S Design grade has 16-inch alloys so they aren't even the largest alloy wheel available. The car is great value though.

By the sounds of things you want something that is frugal, looks good and is upmarket. To be honest, I would probably have a Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI DSG Edition-R, which has all the toys on it, looks awesome and has just been released on to the market. This costs €26,425. 

Alternatively, you could get a good deal on a BMW 1 Series, which is about to be replaced. Let us know if this helps, but I'd choose the Golf, then the Lexus, then the A3. 

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