Audi is all about setting new quality standards for small luxury cars, and this new Audi A3 range for 2009 continues to lead the way for its competitors. With a few minor alterations from the 2008 models, and its signature European styling, the five-door A3 series pushes the balance of sporty and stylish to new heights.
2009 Audi A3 Performance
There are two models of the new A3 on offer this year in the U.S; the turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder model which produces 200hp, and the equally turbocharged 3.2-liter quattro V6, delivering an impressive 250hp. The engine is carried over from last year, but Audi has added a few new features under the hood in the form of the revolutionary S tronic direct shift gearbox, which blends the best of the conventional six-speed manual gearbox and the automatic transmission systems for enhanced performance and handling. In the 2-liter model the S tronic system comes standard and is available in 6-speed automatic or manual transmission, while on the 3.2-liter the S tronic system is standard with automatic transmission. Both models feature the quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system. Audi has also incorporated the option of shifting gear via steering wheel-mounted paddles that allows for matched-rev gear changes or with the standard gear selector.
Another new included feature is the magnetic ride suspension that allows the driver to switch from “normal” to a “sport” suspension setting, giving a damper and stiffer ride and enhanced performance depending on driving conditions and almost eliminating body roll. Fuel efficiency stands at 29 miles per gallon for the 2-liter in highway conditions with 22 mpg in the city, as compared to 25 mpg for the 3.2-liter model on the highway and 18 mpg in city conditions.
2009 Audi A3 Interior and Exterior
On the inside, Audi’s superior German finish shines through, from the classy leather seat finishes and steering wheel cover to the metallic look on the air vents, light switches and centre console. A shift indicator shows the recommended gear at any given time, and the automatic climate control includes a pollen filter and sun-sensor. Add to that a standard 140-watt stereo with 10 speakers (with an optional Bose premium sound upgrade available), and DVD-based navigation system plus optional open-sky sunroof and xenon headlights, and the Audi A3 goes way beyond its specification of being Audi’s base model offering.
There have been a few enhancements in the exterior appearance of the A3 in 2009 that increase its sporty look. The front fenders have been modified, a “wing” added above the headlights, as well as improvements to the bumper, cool new fiber optic rods in the taillights to give a high-tech look, new door handles and radiator grill. Although the length remains unchanged, it seems longer and sleeker to fit with its sporty image.
2009 Audi A3 Safety
Standard safety equipment in the A3 series includes 4-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBS) to minimize skidding, as well as front, side and rear airbags, daytime running lights, and tire pressure monitor. The 2-liter model comes with halogen headlights with integrated high and low beam, and the-3.2 liter model features headlights that automatically adjust their range to driving conditions. Audi has included standard side guard door beams for roll protection and a vehicle anti-lockout device along with the usual range of anti-theft mechanisms and remote control features.
Overall, by adding a few select upgrades this year, the Audi A3 has once again proven its ability to stay ahead of the competition in the small car class and set the standard in high quality performance and style.