2009 Audi A3: Tester's Comments
2009 Audi A3 ▼
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- MSRP: $26,920 - $36,975
- Invoice: $25,035 - $34,387
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Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2009 Audi A3. See if the 2009 Audi A3 is right for you.
Vehicle Evaluated
| Make/Model: | 2009 Audi A3 |
|---|---|
| Trim Level: | 3.2 S line |
| Arrival Date: | 03/05/2009 |
| Engine: | dohc V6 |
| Bodystyle | 4-door hatchback |
| Transmission: | 6-speed automatic |
| 4WD/AWD: | Yes |
| Base Price: | 36,975 |
| Price as Tested: | 42,125 |
| Mileage at Beginning of Test: | 1572 |
| Mileage at End of Test: | 2548 |
| Total Measured Miles: | 976 |
| Total Fuel Used: | 43.248 gals. |
| Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: | 22.57 mpg (what's this?) |
| Problems During Test: | None |
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Major Options
Monza Silver Metallic Paint, Audi Navigation System Plus (Glovebox 6-CD Changer), Sport Package (Sport Seats, Sport Suspension, 18-Inch Alloy Wheels w/ Summer Performance Tires), Cold Weather Package (Heated Front Seats, Heated Windshield Washer Nozzles, Heated Exterior Mirrors)
From the Back Seat
Damon Bell
Judging by the A3's sluggish sales, most premium-compact shoppers aren't keen on shelling out upwards of $40K for a 4-door hatchback. Maybe the unique (and functional) hatchback design isn't prestigious enough for some. For me, the A3's nimble handling, reasonably smooth ride, snappy performance, cargo versatility, and truly upscale cabin appointments make it a compelling choice.
Don Sikora
The Audi A3 3.2 S Line is an impressive premium compact. It ably mixes sport, comfort, practicality, and class into a fairly well-rounded package. The as-tested sticker of $42,125 doesn't come across as a strong value, but if the car appeals to you and you can swing the bill, you should be very happy with your purchase.
Ed Piotrowski
If you missed out on picking up the limited-edition Volkswagen R32, the Audi A3 3.2 quattro is about the next best thing. Better, I dare say, because of its 4-door practicality and greater refinement. Skip the costly and overly complex navigation system and the Sport Package, and you're looking at an MSRP of less than $39,000. While that's still a lot of money, you're getting quite a bit of car here. A3 is an excellent blend of sport and luxury.
Rick Cotta
At some price point, even a really good car can lose much of its appeal. And no question about it, the A3 S line is a really good car. Of all A3 iterations, I think the S line--with its strong V6 and all-wheel drive--best justifies its existence, but it struggles to justify its price. Our tester's $38,000 base sticker swelled to more than $42,000 with nav and a few other niceties, making it a good ten grand more than a Subaru WRX hatch with similar performance--though admittedly not similar polish. Whether or not you can appreciate the difference probably depends upon the depth of your pockets.
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