2009 Audi A3 Review
2009 Audi A3 Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Versatile interior space, enjoyable driving dynamics, availability of sequential-shift transmission, excellent safety for a small car.
Cons
- Rear-seat legroom is tight, 3.2 trim level's lofty price is out of sync with A3's entry-level status.
What’s new
For 2009, the Audi A3 gets freshened up inside and out, and comes with more standard and optional features. This year's A3 has a new hood, redesigned front and rear fenders and Audi's new signature single-frame front grille design. Inside, all trim levels now come standard with leather upholstery, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. The 3.2 trims get standard bi-xenon headlights and Bluetooth phone connectivity. Quattro all-wheel drive is now optional on 2.0 T models equipped with the S tronic transmission. Manual 2.0 T models get standard hill-hold assist.
Edmunds says
The 2009 Audi A3 offers value and practicality for entry-level luxury buyers. But we suggest passing on the pricey options and sticking with the basics.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2009 Audi A3 2.0T 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.59 per gallon for premium unleaded in Michigan.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Michigan
$229/mo for A3 2.0T
A3 2.0T
vs
$182/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
With all the hubbub surrounding some of the glamorous newer models in the Audi lineup, it can be easy to forget about the A3, Audi's least expensive car. But as more consumers turn toward smaller and more efficient vehicles, Audi's entry-level hatchback just might find itself getting a little more attention.
For 2009, the Audi A3's pricing has gone up slightly from last year, but there are more standard features for the money, including leather upholstery, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack on all trim levels. All 2.0 T models with a manual transmission get standard hill-hold assist, which eliminates the need to manually engage the parking brake when starting on a steep incline. On all levels above the base trim, Bluetooth phone connectivity is standard. In addition, the top-of-the-line 3.2 model gets standard bi-xenon headlights. Optional features have been expanded as well; Quattro all-wheel drive is now available on 2.0 T models equipped with the S tronic (DSG) transmission.
Thanks to its small proportions, dynamic handling and versatile hatchback design, the 2009 Audi A3 competes price- and performance-wise with sporty imports like the Mazdaspeed 3 and the Subaru WRX. But the A3's fit, finish and available features put it on par with entry-level luxury cars like the Saab 9-3 SportCombi and Volvo V50. The 2009 Audi A3 could be considered an alternative to both segments, but we recommend sticking to the base 2.0 T, which gets you the A3's lively performance and high-quality interior without costing too much. Luxury buyers might prefer the feature-packed 3.2 Quattro, but with a price tag of nearly $37,000, you might as well consider more prestigious (and more satisfying to own) models like the BMW 328i, Infiniti G35 or even Audi's own, fully redesigned A4 2.0 T.
Performance & mpg
Audi A3 2.0 T models can come with either front-wheel drive or Audi's Quattro AWD system. They're powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to a broad power band, the 2009 Audi A3 can go from zero to 60 mph in 7 seconds. Front-wheel-drive models are available with either a six-speed manual transmission or Audi's S tronic sequential-shift automated manual gearbox. The latter changes gears quickly and matches revs on downshifts, while offering all the convenience of a regular automatic transmission. Quattro versions of the A3 2.0 T are only available with S tronic. Audi A3 2.0 Ts sold in California and California-emissions states meet the squeaky-clean PZEV tailpipe emission standard.
The A3 3.2 comes only with Quattro. Its 3.2-liter V6 makes 250 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired to the S tronic transmission only. Although the 3.2 Quattro's standard AWD is a plus for those who face slippery driving conditions, the heavier curb weight of the more powerful A3 doesn't translate to much of a boost in performance -- its 0-60 time is 6.8 seconds.
Fuel economy for a front-wheel-drive 2.0 T with a manual transmission is rated at 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway and a combined rating of 24 mpg. Opting for the 2.0 T Quattro and S tronic automatic drops highway mileage by 2 mpg. Fuel economy for the 2009 Audi A3 3.2 Quattro is 18/25/21 mpg.
Safety
Numerous safety technologies are standard on the A3, including front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, antilock brakes and stability control. Seat-mounted side airbags for rear passengers are optional. In crash testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 2009 Audi A3 earned ratings of "Good" (the highest possible) in both frontal-offset and side-impact tests.
Driving
Both engines provide the 2009 Audi A3 with brisk performance. The A3's electromechanical steering does a superb job of reducing vibration without sacrificing driver feedback. In typical Audi fashion, the ride is comfortably firm and the A3's handling is just as sporty as its larger siblings'. And with the help of a well-tuned suspension, the car stays in control and on line in the turns.
Interior
Like all Audis, the A3 boats a high-quality interior with good fit and finish -- although the cabin isn't as luxurious as those of more expensive Audis. The layout of the buttons and controls on this Audi are simple and straightforward -- Audi's complex Multi Media Interface (MMI) system is not available on this car. The excellent steering wheel with its built-in S tronic shift paddles fits the driver's hands perfectly, as does the leather-topped shift knob. There's also a reasonable amount of cargo space -- a maximum of 56 cubic feet. However, many passengers will find the backseat short on legroom.
2009 Audi A3 models
The 2009 Audi A3 is a four-door hatchback/wagon offered in two basic trim levels: 2.0 T and 3.2. Features on the base 2.0 T trim include 17-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, full power accessories, cruise control, a trip computer and a 10-speaker audio system with a single-CD player, satellite radio and an auxiliary jack. Choosing the optional Premium package adds a power driver seat, Bluetooth and paddle shifters on cars equipped with automatic transmissions. The S line Package includes everything in the Premium package plus uniquely styled front and rear bumpers, a roof spoiler and special interior trim. The optional Convenience package adds an auto-dimming rearview mirror, xenon headlights and a premium Bose audio system. Audi A3 3.2 models essentially come with all of the above equipment as standard.
Options available on all trim levels include a Sport package with 18-inch wheels, summer performance tires, a sport suspension and sport seats. An enhanced Sport package offers the same seats and wheels, but adds Audi's Magnetic Ride Control suspension. A Cold Weather package offers heated seats, heated windshield-washer nozzles and heated exterior mirrors. Other options include a sunroof and a navigation system with a glovebox-mounted six-CD changer.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Above Average
#16 out of 26 among Luxury Compact Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Audi A3 from 2008-2022.$582/yr
vs. $554/yr
for Average Luxury Compact Car
for Average Luxury Compact Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).2.01x/yr
vs. 1.57x/yr
for Average Luxury Compact Car
for Average Luxury Compact Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).12.3%
vs. 11.1%
for Average Luxury Compact Car
for Average Luxury Compact Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2009 Audi A3.
5 star(73%)
4 star(15%)
3 star(7%)
2 star(3%)
1 star(2%)
60 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.63 out of 5 stars
Think it over
zhengsmassage, 03/30/2010
2008 Audi A3 2.0T 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
When I first bought this car I loved it! It is fun to drive, the stick shift is fast and with a few modifications this car can look nice. Good gas mileage, good sound system. I really like everything about this car except. It has given me so many problems. My car is only two years old now with 40,000 miles and currently in the shop again. My battery has gone bad after only two years! … Unbelievable! I replaced the starter in the car twice, once at 8,000 miles and another at 20. Don't know how long Audi will cover it but I think there might be a bigger problem causing it. I also replaced the stereo system because of a malfunction and the windshield wiper sensor (hazard with no ww in the rain
5 out of 5 stars
Fast, Fun, Reliable, and Comfortable!
jcj8, 09/11/2011
2008 Audi A3 2.0T 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
I have owned an Audi A3 for three years, and appreciate it more and more each day I drive it. The turbocharged 2.0T engine is very zippy and the short-throw 6-speed manual transmission makes driving the A3 particularly fun,
but what really sets the car apart from its competition is its fantastic handling. The car loves curves and the tires stick to the road like glue. From the moment the … car accelerates onto an onramp, the solid feel of Audi's suspension and quiet cabin give the passenger a sense of confidence at highway speeds. Even after three years of daily driving, nothing has broken on my A3 and its been to the shop only for its regularly scheduled and warranty-covered maintenance.
4.75 out of 5 stars
A3 Is my bad boyfriend
samascl, 05/16/2010
2008 Audi A3 2.0T 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
This car is all I ever wanted, fast, fun, charming, you don't see as many of this on the streets so it is even more unique. I call it my bad "boyfriend", I am so in love with it, I can't move forward to another car and I know the car is a lot of trouble. In a year in half that I have owned it, it had 2 problems, one with gas sensor and seal and today I am having jerking transmission … and the dealer does not want to recognize it. I have read forums and a lot of people have experienced the same issue with the same dealer's answer. Buy it, you will love it, but be careful it can break ur heart when you start having mechanical issues. I still love it even that is problem car!
4.63 out of 5 stars
A GTI in a suit
since59, 04/22/2012
2009 Audi A3 2.0T PZEV 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
I needed to replace my 11 year old TT roadster with a larger car.
I was looking at 2-3 year old A4 Avants but they were too expensive.
Last week I bought an A3 used with 30k on the odometer.
I just finished a 1000 mile road trip in 100+ degree heat at an average speed of 85 mph without a single problem.
Great power from the 2.0 turbo that emits a wonderful snarl when you floor it and the … dual clutch transmission is an able dance partner in the twisties.
The dual zone AC kept the cabin of my black on black skyroof equipped A3 cool and comfortable while we cruised through the Mojave desert and the engine temp needle never budged past the middle of the dial.
Great little car!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 Audi A3, so we've included reviews for other years of the A3 since its last redesign.
2009 A3 Highlights
2.0T
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $26,920 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 24 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $229/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 19.5 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the A3 include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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