Launch Control

So I've read a bit about this and I understand the for most GTI's and R32's this is a simple software upgrade. Anyone done this or know if it's an option for our A3 version of DSG?


http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=3511620

It is not available for the US version of the A3 ECU.  I think it is available in Europe, but not sure if you could order a Euro ECU and do a swap.  Can't imagine that it would be very cost effective though.

So I am guessing there's a lot of difference then between the VW GTI/R32 ECU and the Audi A3 ECU?

It's not the ECU that's different, it's the TCM (transmission control module). I thought about doing this mod too, this page has some good reading on the subject: http://www.audiworld.com/tech/elec144.shtml

Basically you need a Euro-spec TCM (or possibly one from a 2007+ US-spec GTI that has launch control) and it has to be installed inside the tranny (drain oil, etc). Also, it requires new wiring if you have paddle shifters and want to retain their functionality.

why don't you have launch control???we (Europe) have it .is it some strange American safety law??btw never used it.am i to old??best wishes to every one.yes a bit late but like we say in Holland: better late than never!!

I have no idea why LC isn't available in America... I doubt it's a safety issue, because it is available here on the GTI.

Just guessing here, but maybe they were trying to distinguish the A3 from the GTI. The Audi brand is marketed more as a luxury car and is at the bottom of Audi's line (as far as price is concerned) while the GTI is marketed as a performance car (it even has a tube that pipes noise from the intake into the passenger cabin!) and is one of VW's higher-end offerings. Likewise, the GTI was originally a two-door model (VW later added a four-door) while the A3 is only available with four doors (not counting the hatch, obviously). A GTI configured with the same options as an A3 is almost the same price, so if they both had the same features, why would anyone buy a GTI?