2007 Audi A3: Road Test
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2007 Audi A3 ▼
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- MSRP: $25,340 -$33,980
- Invoice: $23,404 -$31,561
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Our road test for the 2007 Audi A3 includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Audi A3 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Audi A3, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Audi A3 help you decide if a 2007 Audi A3 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.0T w/S line Pkg., man. | 2.0T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S line | 3.2 S line w/18-in. whls., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
Audi's 0-60 mph claims for 2.0T--6.7 sec with SMT, 6.9 with manual transmission--rang true in test drives. But turbo 4-cyl lags in low-speed power delivery, then supplies it with a rush. 3.2 also slightly tepid on takeoff, but strong thereafter. Test 3.2 did 6.7 sec 0-60. SMT's shifts are rewardingly smooth, prompt in manual mode, but in some test A3s, slurred automatic-mode shifts introduced some low-speed driveline jerkiness.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.0T w/S line Pkg., man. | 2.0T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S line | 3.2 S line w/18-in. whls., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
No opportunity to measure with manual transmission. With SMT, extended-use 2.0T averaged 26.3 mpg over 12,290 miles. Other test 2.0Ts averaged 23.3-25.4 mpg. Test 3.2 S lines averaged 19.0-19.4 mpg. Audi recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.0T w/S line Pkg., man. | 2.0T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S line | 3.2 S line w/18-in. whls., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 5.9 |
Firm but reasonably absorbent in base-suspension 2.0T. S line models notably stiffer, enough to thump on sharp bumps and washboard surfaces, especially with low-profile 18-inch tires. All A3s stable at highway speed, even over dips, swells.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.0T w/S line Pkg., man. | 2.0T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S line | 3.2 S line w/18-in. whls., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7.3 |
Agile, no undue cornering lean, but base-suspension 2.0T suffers some noseplow in tight, fast turns. S line A3s have sharper responses, little noseplow. Steering accurate, linear, though some testers want firmer feel. Rapid takeoffs induce minor torque-steer in 2.0T. 3.2's AWD traction a boon in all conditions; test car unimpeded by 10 inches of unplowed snow. Brakes strong, easily modulated.
QUIETNESS
| 2.0T w/S line Pkg., man. | 2.0T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S line | 3.2 S line w/18-in. whls., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 6.2 |
Some coarse-surface tire thrum; it's pronounced with 18-inch tires. Wind rush low at highway speeds. No untoward engine sounds even at high rpm.
CONTROLS
| 2.0T w/S line Pkg., man. | 2.0T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S line | 3.2 S line w/18-in. whls., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7.2 |
Like costlier Audis, A3s impress with clear gauges, handy switchgear, though complex dual-zone climate controls require familiarization. Single console control knob governs most navigation-system functions, which take time to master and inconveniently include several audio adjustments. Cabin handsomely assembled from tasteful, high-quality materials.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.0T w/S line Pkg., man. | 2.0T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S line | 3.2 S line w/18-in. whls., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.9 |
Adult-size head and leg room. Seats all-day comfortable; S line's sport seats have slightly larger side bolsters for excellent support in turns. Oddly, even power seats include some manual adjustments. Rear roofline slightly impedes driver vision aft and to right rear.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.0T w/S line Pkg., man. | 2.0T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S line | 3.2 S line w/18-in. whls., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
Decent head room for six-footers, adequate leg room if front seats are set far aft. Cushion nicely padded, but not long enough for good thigh support. Doors open wide, but entryways not that large.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.0T w/S line Pkg., man. | 2.0T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S line | 3.2 S line w/18-in. whls., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.1 |
Less space than a small station wagon, but far more versatile than a compact sedan. Hatch door lacks opening glass, but lifts high for access to usefully roomy, flat-floor cargo bay. Rear seatbacks fold easily to extend load area, but don't lay completely flat. Cabin has good small-item storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.0T w/S line Pkg., man. | 2.0T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S line | 3.2 S line w/18-in. whls., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 6.2 |
Upscale hatchbacks haven't been sales successes in America, but the tastefully designed A3 delivers enough features, versatility, and driving enjoyment to qualify as a Recommended pick in the premium-compact-car class. The 2.0Ts are the best dollar value, but you'll have to come to terms with some nonlinear turbo-engine power delivery. With its AWD and gutsy V6, the 3.2 S line is more rewarding but rather pricey.
Total Score
| 2.0T w/S line Pkg., man. | 2.0T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S line | 3.2 S line w/18-in. whls., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 62 | 63 | 61 | 57 | 59.5 |
Total Score: 61
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