Producing one of the most sophisticated lines of cars in the world, Audi has been deemed as a great choice for people who want to drive with style. It is a German manufacturer of cars that makes use of state-of-the-art technology to hone their products greater than the usual standards. For people looking for an Audi, one may consider choosing the 2011 Audi A3.
The 2011 Audi A3 comes in either the Premium or the Premium Plus. Both feature the 2.0T Engine for improved fuel efficiency. The Premium trim has 17-inch wheels with tires for all seasons, halogen headlights with daytime functionality, S line exterior, four-spoke steering wheel, leather surfaces on seats, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Premium Plus comes with the aforementioned features plus the xenon headlights, the three-spoke steering wheel with shift paddles, aluminum medial inlay, illumination package, and Bluetooth functionality for mobile phone preparation. Both could be installed with the optional 2.0 TDI engine for hybrid-like fuel economy.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Audi A3 has a lot of neat pluses. This car is noted for its exceptional performance on the road while retaining its low fuel consumption. The car could really go the distance without using up too much oil. The optional function of the all-wheel drive is a fine addition that makes the performance of this car better. It has accurate steering capabilities to give drivers a smooth ride.
Interior & exterior
Another notable quality of this car is its attractive exterior design. It has a sophisticated style. As for the interior, the parts and the surfaces are all nicely assembled with the use of high-quality materials. However, for some people, the inside may lack in space, and the front seat may seem too tight.
Safety
Perhaps the most notable and powerful feature of this car is its safety assurance. It has all the necessary safety features like electronic brake-pressure distribution, hydraulic brake assist, differential lock, anti-lock brakes, four-window pinch protection, and optional rear side airbags. The reliability of the vehicle is somewhat mediocre compared to its previous features. It has been subjected to VDS, or Vehicle Dependability Study, and IQS, or Initial Quality Study, for three years to compare the initial quality and dependability. Unfortunately, it did not fare well especially with its limited warranty that is only good for four years or 50000 miles of driving.
Competition
For people who seem unsure about the car, there are other similar cars that may be worth considering. The Volkswagen GTI (MSRP $23,695; 21 city / 31 hwy) is one example, and it costs less than $4000 compared to the 2011 Audi 3 while sharing the same exceptional performance and the high-quality components of the A3. For a total sum of $30000, the GTI could offer a complete car package with a high-quality interior, too.
Another car under the same brand is the Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI (MSRP $19,995; 23 city / 33 hwy), which is less than the A3. The base model is also available with $7000 less than the A3. They both possess a large trunk space of up to 66.9 cubic feet, beautiful interior, and good fuel efficiency. In terms of design, the Volvo C30 (MSRP $24,700; 21 city / 29 hwy) fairs better, but the overall performance falls shorter compared to the A3.
The Audi A3 falls short because of its tight rear seating, confusing controls and high cost. However, this entry-level luxury car excels exceptionally with its luxurious and sports-car feel, cost-effective diesel engine with impressive fuel economy, stunning interior and exterior design, and top-quality cabin materials and finish.
Overall Rating
77 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2011 Audi A3 is stylish, refined, and versatile—and nearly as good for the city as for the highway.”Car Connection
“All models have a firm but reasonably absorbent ride with their base suspension setup.”Consumer Guide
“The A3 is quick, nimble, and versatile with a roomy, but somewhat austere, high quality interior.”Consumer Report
“Expensive and underequipped compared to its hatchback competitors, limited rear-seat room for taller passengers, unintuitive navigation controls.”Edmunds
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Coupe FWD | Base Price: $27,270.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons | Miles Per Gallon: 21 city / 31 hwy |
| Length: 168.9 in. (429 cm) | Width: 78.5 in. (199.5 cm) |
| Height: 56 in. (142 cm) | Curb Weight: 3219 lbs (1460 kg) |
| Wheel Base: 101.5 in. (257.8 cm) | Ground Clearance: 4.3 in. (11 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 150 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 |
| Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged, DOHC inline-4 with FSI® | Displacement: 1984 cc |
| Horsepower: 200 hp | Max RPM: 6000 rpm |
| Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph: 7.1 seconds | 1/4 Mile: NA |
| Option:Premium Plus | MSRP: $29,270; MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy |
| Option:2.0 TDI® Premium | MSRP: $30,250; MPG: 30 city / 42 hwy |
| Option:2.0 TDI® Premium Plus | MSRP: $32,250; MPG: 30 city / 42 hwy |
