GENERAL: The car is definitely a looker, the car comes well equipped, and the boot is spacious enough to fit my golf clubs (Not the driver). It cruises effortlessly down the motorway, eats up B roads, and is trouble free around town. I particularly like the climate control, when set to the desired level, maintains the cabin temperature regardless.
PROBLEMS: I had 2 years/30K miles relatively trouble free motoring, during which time the only problems that I encountered were a leaking water pump and a faulty window mechanism. I can not speak of Audi customer service because I bought the car private, and maintained and serviced it myself using parts from GSF, and Euro carparts, which offer the OEM parts for less.
COMPETITION: When purchasing the A3, the other main competitor was the Golf. I am glad that I stuck to my guns and bought an A3. At the time there was not too much between the two, however, now the gap has widened and the A3 passed the test of time, whilst the golf has slipped backwards. The Golf has definitely flooded the market, is a common car, which has lead to higher depreciation values. Also there was the problem with the Golfs security which was featured on TV's watchdog program.
MODIFICATIONS: I had aftermarket PI suspension kit lowering the car by 30mm. This took the understeer away when taking corners fast. Also it gave it a more aggressive stance without detriment to ride comfort and ground clearance.
I then put on MAS Italy VT5R 17" alloy wheels, the car looked out of this world. The wider tyres(225/45/17) added to the handling improvements giving extra grip.
To stop turbo lag I fitted a dump valve, these can be quiet or loud depending on which type you go for. They work by venting the pressure built up from the turbo rather than stopping the turbo. This allows the turbo to keep spinning which reduces wear, and lag, with the added benefit of increasing acceleration and making the engine smoother.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
Hatchback - Front (FWD) - 6 Speed tiptronic Automatic, 5 Speed Manual - 1595 cc - Max Speed: 116 mph - 102 bhp - Petrol - Available Trims: Technik SE, Technik, S line, Sport, SE
Advantages: Great build quality, lots of toys, pretty nippy and a name you can trust. Disadvantages: Fuel consumption, fault on stereo and uncomfortable on really long journeys.
adamquean 25.02.2009 (25.02.2009)
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Review of AudiA31.8T Quattro
Advantages: Great build quality, high reliability, long periods between services, good image. Disadvantages: Little bit too sensible, high price, not very exciting.
Petsi 25.10.2002 (25.10.2002)
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Review of AudiA31.8T Quattro
Apr 3rd, 2003
(Oct 3rd, 2003)
very helpful by (15%):
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