With an entry point around $25,000, the 2008 Audi A3 2.0 T S-Line tempts cost-conscious consumers into giving this sporty, versatile, premium German compact a whirl.
They won’t regret their decision. The A3 delivers sports car-like performance and sophistication with the versatility of a four-door design and cargo area accessed via a rear hatchback.
The S-Line package – coming at a cost of $2,500 – provides the enthusiast more aggressive front and rear fascias, as well as performance tires and sportier interior appointments.
Specifically, the S-Line adds leather sports seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, S-Line badging and bumpers, fog lights and a three-spoke, multi-function steering wheel.
The A3 is immediately recognizable in the rear-view mirror, the dominant feature being a striking single-frame grille enhanced by the S-Line’s larger, more aggressive air intakes and a front lip that adds to the sporty nature of the package.
My tester came with a Misano Red Pearl paint job that served as a beacon during the dark, dank, dreary winter week. Since it was the week of Christmas, it provided a festive flair and kept me nice rather than naughty.
Powered by Audi’s revered 2.0 T FSI four-cylinder engine with turbocharger, the A3 delivers 200 horsepower between 5,100 and 6,000 rpm with maximum torque of 107 lbs-ft. The engine is the first production unit worldwide to combine FSI gasoline direct injection with a turbocharger.
This technology, which was originally developed for the LeMans-winning Audi R8, enables a unique synthesis of high performance, free-revving response and pulling power in all speed ranges, yet with very good fuel economy.
Coupled with a six-speed manual transmission with front-wheel drive, the A3 seats four adults in surprising comfort and delivers 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway.
In this case one can have their cake and eat it, too.
A highly sophisticated suspension is equally important for the driving dynamics achieved by the Audi A3: a MacPherson front suspension and innovative four-link independent rear suspension. With the addition of electromechanical steering with speed-dependent power assistance, the A3 produces excellent cornering performance and control.
The interior design is distinguished by two features: sportiness and elegance. A low seat position and high and wide center console create a cockpit feel. Rounded air vents with aluminum trim and superior ergonomics are coupled with fit-and-finish befitting the Audi nameplate.
A3’s standard equipment package is second to none. The short list includes automatic climate control with pollen filter and sun sensor, 140-watt stereo with 10 speakers, cruise control, power windows and central locking with remote, in-dash CD player, and tilt and telescoping steering wheel.
My tester was equipped with several options including Sirius satellite radio with Bose premium sound ($1,350), heated front seats ($450), Bluetooth phone prep ($435), auto dimming interior mirror and rain and light sensor ($250), and a Titanium Package that adds 18-inch wheels and summer performance tires ($1,500).
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