The 2008 Audi A3 is a handsomely-styled 5-door entry-level hatchback that combines all the luxury appointments of an Audi with the fuel economy and nimble ride of a compact.
One such luxury appointment setting this hatchback apart is the "Open Sky" sunroof system. Two glass roof panels, a sliding front and fixed rear, let in plenty of fresh air and sunlight to passengers of both the front and back rows.
The base engine for the A3 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 that puts out an even 200 horsepower. The up-rated S-Line trim receives a 250 horsepower 3.2 liter V6. Transmission options are 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual, sending power to the front wheels. The S-Line comes outfitted with the automatic transmission and Audi's Quattro All-Wheel-Drive.
Fuel consumption ranges from 18 miles per gallon city with the V6, to 29 miles per gallon highway with the turbocharged inline-4.
Base MSRP for the 2008 Audi A3 is $25,930, while the S-Line trim will cost upwards of $35,000. All A3's come with a 4-year, 50,000-mile power train warranty.
With highway mileage close to 30 MPG and the versatility of 5-doors, the 2008 Audi A3 is a smart choice in the ever-growing luxury-compact class.