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By New Car Test Drive
Autobahn sport with hatchback utility.
Introduction
The Audi A3 is a premium car with excellent dynamics from superbly engineered engine, suspension and braking systems. Yet it's fuel-efficient, with an EPA-rated 29 mpg Highway.
The Audi A3 is, essentially, a practical, compact five-door hatchback, but it feels up-market, like a scaled down A4. We like the A3 for its combination of open-road dynamism, long-haul friendliness, and around-town usefulness. The A3 is an example of the exquisite sensibilities in design and use of materials that distinguishes the contemporary Audi.
Two models are available. The A3 2.0 T is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder driving the front wheels, while the A3 3.2 Quattro has a 3.2-liter V6 that drives all four wheels.
We found the A3 models offer superb balance and excellent throttle response that make for a convincing sports-car experience when the road is right. Inside, the A3 is roomy and versatile, blending pleasing materials with logical controls and highly legible readouts.
Changes for 2008 are minimal. Most significant is the new Titanium package, which adds 18-inch titanium-finish alloy wheels (borrowed from the high-performance RS 4), a black front grille, black interior headliner, and piano black interior trim. All 2008 A3s offer iPod integration.
Sales of the A3 have been modest here in the U.S., but Audi has sold 1.5 million worldwide, including other body styles. So you may not see many on your block, but the A3 is quite popular in Europe. The A3 has earned accolades for its high levels of technology and sporty driving dynamics.
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