2009 Audi A3: Road Test
2009 Audi A3 ▼
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- MSRP: $26,920 - $36,975
- Invoice: $25,035 - $34,387
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Our road test for the 2009 Audi A3 includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Audi A3 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Audi A3, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Audi A3 help you decide if a 2009 Audi A3 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 6.6 |
Audi's 0-60 mph-claims for 2.0T--6.7 seconds with automatic, 6.9 with manual transmission--rang true in our tests. Turbo 4-cylinder lags in low-speed power delivery, then supplies it with a rush. 3.2s have soft throttle response at takeoff, but are strong thereafter. Test 3.2 did 6.7 seconds 0-60. The manual transmission is super smooth. The automatic's shifts are rewardingly smooth and prompt when used in manual mode. In some test A3s, slurred automatic-mode shifts introduced some low-speed driveline jerkiness. No AWD 2.0T models have been made available for testing so far.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 5 | 5.4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, our extended-use 2.0T automatic averaged 26.3 mpg over 12,290 miles. Other test automatic 2.0Ts averaged 23.3-25.4 mpg. Test 3.2 S lines averaged 18.6-19.4 mpg in city/highway use and 22.6 mpg in mostly highway driving. We've not had the opportunity to measure fuel economy with a manual-transmission model. Audi recommends premium-grade gas for all A3s.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 5.3 |
2.0T models have a firm but reasonably absorbent ride with their base suspension setup. S line models are notably stiffer, enough to thump on sharp bumps and washboard surfaces, especially with their available low-profile 18-inch tires. All A3s are stable at highway speeds.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.4 |
Any A3 is agile, but base-suspension 2.0Ts suffer from some noseplow in tight, fast turns. S line A3s have sharper responses and little noseplow. Steering is accurate and linear, though some testers want firmer feel. Rapid takeoffs induce minor torque-steer in the 2.0T. 3.2's AWD traction is a boon in all conditions. Braking is strong.
QUIETNESS
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
We noticed some coarse-surface tire thrum on base models, and it rises with the available 18-inch tires. Wind rush is low at highway speeds. Both engines sound classy while accelerating.
CONTROLS
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4 | 6.2 |
Like costlier Audis, A3s impress with clear gauges and handy switchgear, though their complex dual-zone climate controls require familiarization. A single dash-mounted control knob governs most navigation-system functions. It's also located on the passenger side of the console, rendering it a long reach for the driver. The navigation also absorbs and complicates many audio controls. Without the navigation system, the audio controls are refreshingly simple to operate.
DETAILS
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.2 |
Again, like its more expensive siblings, the A3's cabin is handsomely assembled from tasteful, high-quality materials. Our extended-use 2.0T held up extremely well during its 12,290-mile test.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Headroom and legroom are plentiful. The seats are 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. The rear roofline slightly impedes driver vision aft and to the right rear.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.4 |
Headroom and legroom are adequate, even for six-footers, as long as the front seats are not set far back. The cushion is nicely padded but not long enough for good thigh support. Doors open wide, but entryways are not that large.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 4 |
A3 has less space than a small station wagon but is far more versatile than a compact sedan. The hatch door lacks opening glass but lifts high for access to a usefully roomy, flat-floor cargo bay. Rear seatbacks fold easily to extend the load area but don't lay completely flat. Small-item storage is just OK. The console and glovebox are on the small side, but the door map pockets are nicely sized.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 5.7 |
While it hasn't been lighting up the sales charts, A3 is a premium compact that deserves serious consideration. It delivers a good array of features, versatility, and driving enjoyment. The 2.0Ts suffer from non-linear turbo-engine power delivery, but they earn our Recommended nod for offering the best dollar value. With its gutsy V6, the 3.2 S line is more rewarding but rather pricey.
Total Score
| 2.0T, manual | 2.0T, automatic | 3.2 S line w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 71 | 71 | 66 | 63.9 |
Total Score: 69
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars
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