seanders

Could just be your alternator drawing more engine power to charge the batter too. It does happen to my car too. The gearing might be longer in my A3 because it's a 5 speed but she does pick up in 3rd for sure.

You've got the same engine as is in my A3, and the 1000 RPM idle is normal if the auxiliary draw is high e.g lights on, AC/interior fans or heating on etc. DPF usually isnt a problem if you're routinely getting engine up to operating temperature, but a spirited drive every now and then doesn't hurt. 3rd gear at 80/100 km/h around a few twisty backroads and she'll be spotless Nice car fella, as I've said before.