2008 Audi A3 Review

The A3 is a luxury wagon that debuted in the US in 2006. It is based off the Volkswagen A platform. Audi intends it to combine the sportiness of their TT with the practicality of a four-door. It’s seen little change since its introduction.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Audi A3 is one of the best, if not the best entry-level luxury cars on the market. It’s sporty, yet practical, as well as safe and reliable, and the price is certainly right. Very few vehicles are able to do so many things and do them so well. The A3 is highly recommended.

What’s New For 2008:

The 3.2 now includes a dimming mirror and satellite radio. Rear sunshades and iPod integration are now available. A new Titanium Package is available with different trim.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the A3 2 stars in overall quality and 3 stars in mechanical quality. Problems with the A3 include cold start issues, fuel pump noises, faulty air conditioning and light shorts. No recalls have been issued. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Government crash test scores are not available. It earned perfect IIHS scores, and is one of their “Top Safety Picks” for 2008. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, and stability control come standard. Rear airbags are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Inexpensive
+ Sporty
+ Reliable

Cons
- Cramped interior
- Pricey options
- Missing some luxury features

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Saab 9-3 SportCombi includes leather, a CD changer, and over 50 more hp, but costs much more and gets worse gas mileage. The Subaru Impreza WRX has standard AWD, a CD changer, leather seats, and over 100 more hp, but costs significantly more and gets worse mileage. The Volkswagen Passat Wagon costs a few hundred less and has more cargo capacity, but is otherwise very similar.

What Others Are Saying:

“The new A3 is a sporty, stylish and practical five-door hatchback that promises to compete with the Mini Cooper.” – Forbes

“While Ingolstadt’s diminutive four-door may seem like a hatchback for badge snobs willing to sacrifice size for breeding, it’s actually a four-wheeled fiend, a beast born and bred to take a bite out of the time – space continuum. Everything else about the A3- the foot on the Audi ownership ladder thing, the four-wheel-drive peace-of-mind shtick- is nothing more than a glossy coat on a vicious little monster. And I mean that in the nicest possible way.” – The Truth About Cars

“The Audi A3 is a great choice of young, active, and well-heeled consumers looking for distinctive vehicles to fit their lifestyles. The A3 is a high-quality car that offers premium handling and safety, roominess and practicality, yet is still easy to park and, with the 2.0-liter turbo engine, is easy on fuel.” – The New York Times

Read more about the 2008 Audi A3 at the Audi manufacturer web site.