2008 Audi A3 Model Lineup Review

Base Hatchback
Autobahn sport with hatchback utility.

Lineup

reviewed by New Car Test Drive
2008 Audi A3 Review

All 2008 Audi A3 models sold in the U.S. are five-door Sportbacks. The A3 2.0 T is front-wheel drive with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 200 horsepower. Two transmissions are available: six-speed manual or optional Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) automatic. The A3 3.2 Quattro comes with all-wheel drive, a 250-hp 3.2-liter V6, and the DSG.

The A3 2.0T ($25,930) and 2.0T DSG ($27,410) come with cloth upholstery; automatic climate control with pollen filter and sun sensor; power lumbar support; tilt and telescoping steering column; 10-speaker, 140-watt stereo with Sirius satellite prep; central locking with remote keyless entry; power windows; electronic cruise control; anti-theft alarm; two cup holders in the center console; and vanity mirrors in the sunvisors; Servotronic electro-mechanical steering; and 17-inch, five-spoke Star design alloy wheels shod with all-season radials.

The 2.0T Premium Package ($1,500) adds leather seating surfaces, 16-spoke bi-color alloy wheels, a storage package, trip computer, illumination package, power front driver's seat with four-way power lumbar adjustment, multifunction three-spoke sport steering wheel, alloy shift paddles on cars with DSG, aluminum beltline trim, and front fog lights. The S line Package ($2,500) includes the Premium Package, plus special five-spoke quattro GmbH alloy wheels wrapped with 17-inch all-season radials, and sport-tuned shocks and stiffer springs to tighten up the handling; distinctive exterior touches include a roof spoiler, S line badges, and unique front and rear bumpers; aluminum door sills (with the S line logo), leather sport seats, and alloy trim upgrade the interior. The Audio Package ($1,350) adds Bose electronics, AudioPilot noise compensation, and Sirius satellite radio.

The A3 3.2 Quattro ($34,915) includes all of the content of the S line Package and Audio Package.

Options for both models include a Cold Weather Package ($700) with heated front seats, removable ski sack, heated windshield washer nozzles and heated exterior mirrors. Various navigation packages are available, combined with an iPod interface ($1,950), 6-CD changer ($1,950), or with the 2.0T Audio Package ($2,950). Options for both models include the two-part Open Sky sunroof ($1,100); Bluetooth phone preparation ($435), heated front seats ($450), bi-xenon adaptive headlights ($800), 18-inch Five-arm alloy wheels with 225/40R18 summer tires ($1,000); Dark Walnut interior trim for 2.0T ($400); premium Vienna leather for 3.2 Quattro ($800), iPod interface ($250); rear side window sunshades ($150).

The Titanium package ($1,500) adds 18-inch titanium-color RS 4-style alloy wheels, a black front grille, black interior headliner, and piano black interior trim.

Safety features that come standard on all models include front and side-impact airbags for the front-seat passengers. All five seating positions get three-point seatbelts and an adjustable headrest, while front-seat headrests feature active technology to reduce whiplash injuries. The front seat belts feature height adjustment, automatic pre-tensioners and belt-force limiters. Rear side airbags are optional ($350). Active safety features that come standard include electronic stability program (ESP); full-time traction control (ASR); ABS, EBD, and Brake Assist; an electronic differential lock (EDL). Next Page


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