The highly praised Audi A3 is probably the most capable “entry-level” hatchback on the market. For 2009, the changes amount to some styling tweaks and added content plus a few more options. If you always wanted an Audi, but didn’t think you could afford one, take a look at the very special 2009 A3.
The 2009 Audi A3 is an amazing combination of performance, utility, comfort and safety. It offers a level of luxury not usually found in the ultra-convenient hatchback body style. A3 MSRPs range from $26,920 to $36,975, depending on model and options.
This year's A3 has a new hood, redesigned front and rear fenders and Audi's new signature single-frame front grille design. There are more standard features for the money this year including leather upholstery, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack on all trim levels. All 2.0 TFSI models with a manual transmission get standard Hill-Hold Assist, which eliminates the need to manually engage the parking brake when starting on a steep incline. On all levels above the base trim, Bluetooth phone connectivity is standard. Optional features have been expanded as well; quattro all-wheel drive is now available on 2.0 TFSI models equipped with the S tronic (DSG) transmission.
The A3 interior is sure to impress anyone cross-shopping hatchbacks. After all, this is an Audi, a brand known for high quality appointments and excellent fit and finish. You can feel the quality! The layout of the buttons and controls on this Audi is simple and straightforward, the seating is luxurious, yet supportive and the ergonomics are faultless. There's also a generous amount of cargo space - a total of 56 cubic feet.
The “base” Audi A3 2.0 TFSI model comes with front-wheel drive standard and offers Audi's quattro AWD system. Power is supplied by a 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct injection, four-cylinder engine with 200 hp and 207 lb/ft of torque. Advanced engine-control electronics deliver torque at relatively low revs. This means fast launches and good passing power with a zero-to-60 mph time of seven seconds. The A3 3.2 comes only with the quattro drivetrain and S tronic transmission. Its 3.2-liter V6 makes 250 hp and 236 lb/ft of torque.
Fuel economy for a front-wheel drive 2.0 TFSI with a manual transmission is EPA-rated at 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway. The 2.0 TFSI quattro and S tronic come in at 18 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.
Safety systems on the A3 are also up to snuff. Active driver’s safety aids include antilock brakes and stability control and a complement of front-seat side airbags and full-length side-curtain airbags. In insurance industry crash testing, the 2009 Audi A3 was ranked "Good" (the highest) in both frontal-offset and side-impact tests.
Either A3 engine will deliver impressive performance. The A3’s handling is almost certain to exceed your expectations. The A3's electromechanical steering is accurate, vibration-free and even provides “road feel,” the lack of which is a common complaint about “drive-by-wire” systems. The A3 carves corners like a sportscar, yet offers a commuting-friendly ride. Enthusiasts will want to check out the optional Audi Magnetic Ride system. Adaptive shock absorbers adjust to dynamic forces on the A3 and offer the ultimate in cornering and stiffness.
Europeans have enjoyed the pleasures of driving a compact luxury car for years. The Audi A3 offers us Americans a taste of that experience. The fact is you give up practically nothing in terms of comfort and amenities, yet you gain in terms of economy and driving satisfaction. Considering the ups and downs of gas prices, the 2009 Audi A3 is the right ride for all reasons.
