The 2011 Audi A3 continues automobile manufacturers efforts to get us to like the hatchback. Let’s be honest, we do not like them that much, but the A3 and the Golf are the two cars that could change our mind. Funnily sufficient, the A3 is built on a Golf chassis, uses a similar engine and gearbox, in fact Volkswagen owns Audi.
Of the two, the Golf is setting the standards. However, the 2011 Audi A3 is a close second, and worthy of consideration in the event you happen to want a smaller, fun, practical, run-around that is just as happy on the interstate as it is within the city. Fortunately, you will find lots of new automobile deals around, so they can be had for a decent price in the event you look tough sufficient.
Until Audi revealed the A1, the A3 was the smallest vehicle in their arsenal, it’s also one of its most popular. It’s larger brother, the A4 is the bestselling Audi model, but despite being the smaller sibling, the feeling of quality and space remain.
The A3 appears the ideal new car. It’s little sufficient to cope with city streets, nimble sufficient for red-light fun, stable and comfortable sufficient for lengthy drives, with the correct balance of power and efficiency to make it a long-term option for numerous families.
Power and Control
The A3 has two engine choices. The initial is the 2.0 TFSI unit, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 200 bhp and 207 lb-ft of torque. In standard trim, this goes to the from wheels, but in Quattro guise, it hits all four. The second engine is the 2.0 TDI diesel that produces 140 bhp and 236 lb-ft of torque.
That power is put into use in a couple of methods. The front-wheel drive has either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic S-tronic dual-clutch transmission (DSG) with electro-hydraulic control. The Quattro is available only with the S-tronic choice.
We’re not in love with diesel, but the Audi TDI motor is really a clean diesel. That means less pollution, but much better gas mileage. If anything is going to separate us from our beloved gas, it’s going to be an engine like this. Many new cars are using this fuel now, so it’s worth thinking about.
With the manual transmission the TFSI engine is EPA-rated at 21 mpg city, 30 mpg highway. The TDI is EPA-rated at 30 mpg city and 42 mpg highway. Yes that’s right, 42 miles per gallon. If that wasn’t a reason to think about it, I don’t know what is.
The Players
The 2011 Audi A3 range consists of numerous cars at various price points. The 2.0 TFSI at $27,270, 2.0 TFSI DSG $28,750, and also the 2.0 TFSI DSG Quattro at $30,850.
They all come with leather interior, automatic climate control and sun sensor, power lumbar support, central locking with remote keyless entry, power windows, cruise control, 10-speaker stereo, anti-theft alarm, Servotronic electro-mechanical steering, and 17-inch alloy wheels with radial tires.
The A3 2.0 TDI diesel is $29,950 and comes equipped as the other models, with the same options.
The Audi Premium Plus Package adds a storage package, illumination package, power front driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment, multifunction three-spoke sports steering wheel, alloy shift paddles on cars with DSG, HID headlamps, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Convenience Package adds a Bose Premium sound system, rain-sensing wipers, and an auto-dimming mirror with a compass.
The develop quality of any new Audi is unsurpassed. Every panel, switch, stitch and rivet all look pristine. The doors close with a solid clunk, and everything works as it ought to. This is a automobile that will last forever if looked after properly.
The driving experience is a refined one. It isn’t a sports car but both engines provide enough power to carve via city visitors, or eat up highway miles. Comfort is key, and also the Audi seats are firm and supportive. The cabin really is really a nice place to be.
For those thinking of making a change, or searching for new automobile deals, the 2011 Audi A3 is certainly 1 to consider. If you can forget your hatchback or diesel aversion, the TDI engine is the one to get.
- * Vehicle Type: three or 5-door hatch
- * Base Price: $27,270
- * Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder
- * Displacement: 2.0 liters
- * Power (SAE net): 200 bhp
- * Torque (SAE net): 207 lb-ft
- * Transmission: six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic
- * S-tronic dual-clutch transmission (DSG)
- * Fuel Economy (MFR’S EST): 30/42 mpg (city/hwy) TDI