Lurker noob looking to buy A3

I am looking to buy a new semi luxury vehicle in the next few days. I was lookig at IS350/250, G35 and A4. I have always loved all things Audi, but never owned one, or know much about them. I have heard good and bad about Audi, actually lots of in-service failures for the Audi lineup. I have driven the IS350/250 and G35. I stopped by the Audi dealer, and was looking at the A4, but they all have the CVT (not for me) and they are going to a new body style soon, so this unit is dated.
 
I then stumbled across the A3. I immediately liked this car, and it intrigues me very much. I know it may not be in the same "class" as the Lexus/Infinity, but the fit and finish on it seems outstanding. I have not gotten to drive one yet, so I am posting here a few questions, hope someone can help.
 
First, the car I like on the lot is a 2008 2.0 S-Tronic (I assume that is the DSG eveyone talks about here), Lava Gray, S-Line, Ipod, Open-Sky. Thats it. It is a beautiful car.
 
I don't want a stick shift. The Lexus and Infinity are bigger cars, and I *somewhat* like that, but the interior of the A3 seems nearly the same size of these two. Am I correct?
 
The exterior of the car seems small. Does this car feel "small" on the road? Does it get thrown around by potholes and uneven road surfaces? We have ****ty roads here.
 
The normal stereo (Concert?), is is good?
 
Do you owners get compliments on the "status" of this particular Audi, or do people view it as an unknown, or some sort of tuner car or a VW?
 
Is the road noise I read about here valid? The opensky rattles valid?
 
Does the DSG drive like a normal Auto Trans in the auto logic function?
 
And the big one: What is the reliability of Audi products? I keep my cars for approx. 5-6 years, and I hate troublesome vehicles. I take very good care of my vehicles, but hate when they don;t return the favor.
 
In my price range, I know I don't have allot to choose from (damn, I remember when 30k bought a really nice car), is this really a high quality vehicle, or a so-so quality vehicle.
 
Thanks, and sorry so long winded.
 
 
 
 

Lama, I just bought my A3 2.0T DSG (yes that's S-Tronic only way better) 6 months ago so I'll give you my 2 cents so far. There are much more qualified members here who can help you & probably direct to some specific threads. Look around too.
 
I've driven alot of cars (not the G35), & the A3 is by far the most fun.
 
I think Audi is more in the MB/BMW "class" but maybe not quite as recognizable, and that's the "status" of compliments I have been receiving.
You're right, fit & finish are excellent. Just touch the dashboard edge above the gauges, that material is incredibly soft, I was blown away. It speaks to the quality of the interior.
 
The size of the interior seems perfect for me, I'm 5'11'" and I am very comfortable inside. Not cramped at all. The hacthback is versatile, since there is lots of room when the backs seats are folded down.
 
I have the Premium (non-sport) version, but I hear the S-Line is still good, "firm but not punishing". You will want to slalom around the potholes!!
 
Concert Stereo...B minus...not bad for a standard stereo (a little too much bass), but some expect more from Audi.
 
I don't notice road noise, & my open sky has had no problems. It gets a lot of use because I dig that thing.
 
DSG is unbelievable, IMO it's the best of both worlds. It has DRIVE: yes, "normal auto" mode only with cutting edge technology. Virtually no lag between shifts. SPORT: still auto, but shifts around redline.
MANUAL: shift yourself with the console or paddle shifters.
 
I also keep my cars a long time, and I've heard Audi's reliability has improved lately. We'll see, but you already know that with a performance vehicle, there may come a little extra care & maintanance. I think it's worth it.
 
A few more reasons why I bought mine are the clean lines & overall looks, and that you don't see many on the road.
 
Take a test drive...you will want one!!
 
 
 

Best thing to do right now is to take it for a drive. The car speaks for itself and I'm sure you'll love the car... I know I did and now I'm may be considering one over an S4.

In my opinion I think Audi is above lexus/infiniti. Audi produces a much more technologically advanced car and always seems to go the extra mile, which in the past has slightly hurt their reliability. But now in the new models (2006+) audi's reliability has made a huge leap. The A3 has nearly the same ratings for reliability as lexus/inifiniti. Remember Audi's are heavy (better build quality and a higher grade metal) and on the road they have a heavier feel which gives the drive the sensation of sticking to the ground and an overall solid feel. Around me people have never seen an audi and compared it to a tuner or VW; Audi's are very distinct and have a high reputation of classiness

Hope this helps

Agreed with all that was said.   I personally like the A3 much better than the A4 in almost all respects, and I have driven all the cars you've listed before buying the A3 myself.   Drive it and you'll never look back.
 
 
Cheers!

quote:

ORIGINAL: Lama

I know it may not be in the same "class" as the Lexus/Infinity, but the fit and finish on it seems outstanding.

 
Hey - Lama you're right - It's not in the same class as the Lexus or Infinity.  Those guys are the newbies - Audi is part of the old European "established". 
If your are concerned about a vehicle sticking around for 5 to 6 years - why are you looking at the Infinity - others may disagree with me.  But, I know too many people with those Infiniti/ Nissans - that 3.5 is great but - everything else around it could be a problem. 
IMO - You want a Lexus go get a Lexus.  Test drive the A3 and you'll have second thoughts about that Lexus.  I was seriously considering a 330i, G35, IS350 and WRX.  Overall - the A3 won hands down - it was not one specific 'thing'.  For example - performance was not an overall factor or else the WRX would have won out - it was not the luxurious ride or Lexus would have won.  It was a whol bunch of mitigating factors.  And to this day - I still cannot quatify it. 
And as I'm sure you are seeing from the other websites - everyone is tell you that you should buy a Lexus IS blah blah because of blah blah and blah.  Or the Infinity drivers are saying the G35 is for you because of blah blah and blah. 
But here - you'll have at least one A3 driver, myself, who will tell you that this car is not for you because of the same reason's that you like the Infiniti's or Lexus'.  Measuring the A3 quatitatively or qualitatively point by point with another car - will not do it.  Go drive an A3 and take it in as a whole not just part by part or attribute by attribute.  Because, you are not just buying the performance.  You are not just buying the looks, or the ride.  What you are buying is a whole car for 30K. 

Thanks to everyone for the replies. Today I will go drive the A3, and see for myself. I just want to spend 30k correctly, and with long term satisfaction. I must say one thing though, it is really, really hard to fall in love with ANY other vehicle right now in my mind, with that damned Audi S5 in Black sitting in the Audi showroom. That to me is the most beautiful car I have ever seen, bar none. Unfortunately, I don't have the funds for a 50k+ vehicle , LOL.
 
Also, if anyone could help once more, the A3 I'm looking at has a window sticker of $32,485.00. Invoice $30,082.00 (per Edmunds)
 
Anyone think I can get it for $30, 485?? I think that would be a fair deal.
 
Thanks again!!

One thing, when I referred to the A3 not being in the same "class" as the Lexus/Infinity, I meant that the IS and G35 were more traditional sport (midsize) sedans, more on par body-wise with the A4, not the A3.

I will also agree

I have pretty much the car you saw in the lot and took custody of it 2 weeks ago.

DSG, IPOD, Bluetooth, SLINE, OpenSky

car is just awesome and the girls seem to like it so far :)

the ONLY drawback i could say is the IPOD is useless. I absolutely hate the fact that it doesn't display the song title on the screen. I THINK it's the IPOD that's at fault here, not sending this data via its data port as opposed to Audi refusing to display it. I end up using the CD loaded with 150 MP3s or so...or even better, if you can fork it, defintely go the NAV with SD CARDs

Lama > Just to add some already good advice by the posters before me...  I too, was between the IS250 and the A3.  In the end it was driving the A3 that really made the choice easy.  The IS is a great car, but the feel is completely different from the A3.  For me, the Audi is a "drivers" car.  What I mean is that the controls are in the right place (germans do it like no one else) and the car has a lighter, more responsive feel to all the control input.  If you like a heavier feeling car, the Lexus fits the bill.  The penalty is a more sluggish response and a much less sporty feel.  We can all tell you how good we think the A3 looks, but style is subjective.  It sounds as though the look of the A3 has already hooked you, so driving it will be the final test.  Good luck either way, and please post your driving impressions!

Drove one today. Very nice tight car, beautiful build quality, very, very quick. Just not the car for me. Thanks to all who helped in my pre-purchase research. Got to love the WWW. Thanks!!!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

I know you've already test-driven and decided against the A3, but let me add a few tidbits for your consideration ....

In terms of reliability, Audi has gone up leaps and bounds. While the Japanese brands (lexus/infiniti) are still the top of reliability, Audi was ranked 12th or 13th last year by Consumer Reports (I'm pretty sure it was their list). BMW and Mercedes were ranked below 30th place. It's probably the most reliable European car you can get.

In terms of how other people perceive it, I've gotten tons of compliments. While there are millions of BMW, Mercedes, Lexus, and Infinity out there, Audi stands out - people who drive Audis have character. We don't just simply blend into the crowd, especially with the A3, which is even more exclusive as there's not that many out there (compared to A4s)

I have the S-Line suspension and live in Downtown L.A. (potholes galore). It can be slightly harsh when you hit one, so I try to avoid them. But hey, that's the trade-off for having better handling. It's not so bad; I can live with it.

The Concert II is one of the better stock systems I've heard. I listen to a lot of hip-hop and jazz, and people always ask if I have an after market sub installed.

Interior-wise, the A3 is virtually identical to the A4 on the inside (look at the specs - only one less inch of leg room in the rear seat). The trunk volume is actually the same, but with the backseat folded down, I can fit more things. I once fit four people and three snowboards in my car. The G35 is fairly roomy, but the IS 250/350 - forget it. The backseat is a joke - might as well be a coupe.

Hopefully some of these comments will persuade you ... they're obviously a little biased since you're asking an A3 forum. But think about this - we're all car enthusiasts here and were considering many of the choices you are. We picked the A3, and we're all still very very happy with it.

As Far as the Noise.......... im always with music on anyhow........ trunk noise ? is barely nothing.......the A3 is an awesome ride.....i had mine for over 1 year....i would buy it again......... no doubt about that......and the fact that there's not that many of them around is kinda cool....... you dont wanna pull up in a light with twin brothers everywhere like BMWs, INfinits or Lexus...... THE A3 is unique....... the only bad about it ? S3 is not here yet... period...
and when u start modding it .......is adddicting.......Big toy for big boys.....THE S line Suspension is awesome..... make sure though to pick up the right features...not like me......after few months i totally regret not having bi-zenon's... and electric seats....

I have been driving a Cummins Diesel Ram 2500 4x4 for 8 years now, every day. I needed a sedan for many reasons, and thus my requirements may be very different from others who bought an A3 coming from another road car. The Ram was most likely the best vehicle I have ever owned. Reliable as the IRS in April, and a real workhorse. But having been jarred and kicked for 8 years, I guess when I drove the A3 I really was taken back to what the world of irregular asphalt feels like, all over again.
 
I guess I need a car that is more cushy, and between the A3, G35 and IS, the IS has the best ride.
 
It sucks getting old.
 
Once again, thanks for all the help. The A3 to me has fantastic lines, beuatiful build quality, great options, beautiful paint colors, the black stiched interior is georgeous, and I have just always admired Audi's. They have something no other car has. I cant explain it, some sort of Bavarian super-mojo I guess. They are "special" I guess.
 
I need to win the lottery and get the S5!!!!!
 
Happy Holidays and merry motoring!!
 
 
 

Well as far as the IS... dont get me wrong...... my aunt just bought an 08 IS is very very nice ride...... awesome looking too..... but if you feel like getting back in the RAM status....... a good friend of mine is going to sell his LIMITED EDITION DODGE DAYTONA TRUCK ORANGE 4 door.....if ur willin to get under 12 MPH ......that truck is nasty....gas eater .......good luck with ur choice.....

Happy Holidays and merry motoring!!

P.D: S5 is the way to go .....hahaha

Sounds like we can't convince you, but   with your Lexus. I agree with ottoaudi & lavadrifter, very nice car (get the 350!).  It looks like you have enough info to be very satisfied with your choice. Kudos to you.
 
I too, came from a 4x4 (I'm getting old also & don't go offroading much anymore). I miss being able to run over things  but am loving everything else that's been stated. L7, you are right on!!
 
Many of us also dream of of the S5 , and maybe your next car will be an Audi!
 

I too am giving up on my Silverado, I like it, but I just don't fully use the bed as much as I think. I would rather have better gas milage. Lexus and Infinity are nice but they seem heavy handed to me and I don't think you can get one new for less than 30g. The A3 is a good bargain espeically if the dollar would behave

Great thread! Audi noob here...well, technically not a total noob...I had a '78 Audi Fox wagon back in high school! (but I know how to use the "Search" function!). Getting rid of my FJ Cruiser for basically the same reasons as above, just can't find the time for off-roading to justify the expense and on-road trade offs of a purpose built off-road vehicle.
But I do love 4WD/AWD which is why I'm considering an A3. I've looked at a 328i, Cadillac CTS and Acura TL Type-S thus far. I had wrote off the A4 early in my search as headroom was too tight with the sunroof which is standard with the 3.2 (at least up here in Canada). Then I stumbled across the A3 S-Line with 3.2....took it for a spin and fell in love (that exhaust note is heavenly!). Almost as quick as the TL-S that was my prime consideration, but has AWD to boot....and I love the look of it in Lava Grey with the 18" wheel package. It doesn't have all of the options standard that the TL-S has (Nav, Bluetooth, Surround.....all extra) but I can get it without the sunroof, so I do fit comfortably. And even though the TL-S is fast and fun to drive, the A3 does have that unquantifiable (is that a word?) Teutonic  feel that just feels "right".
The only downer is that I have to get the car built as there's nothing readily available....90 days! But my dealer offered me a loaner until it arrives!!! As long as the numbers make sense...I could be signing this week!

If the Numbers work for you. GO FOR IT!!!
That deal sounds to good to be true expecially having a loaner for the time you wait for your car to arrive. Good luck on the desicion and I know we all hope you join the Audi Family!

I'm coming from a Chevy Silverado the truck is handy and comfortable, but I don't really use it enough for the mpg I get. I'm going to keep the truck while I build my house, but it will be gone when finished. I have a hard time with cars like the G35, Lexus etc. they seem to be all hp and tires with not much else. Yea they are fast, but without those big tires and computer controls they are too soft for me. Maybe because I'm old too and set in my ways and remember all the fun I had in MGs and TRs

Growing old isn't the problem, getting soft is ;)

quote:

ORIGINAL: 4RINGSROD

If the Numbers work for you. GO FOR IT!!!
That deal sounds to good to be true expecially having a loaner for the time you wait for your car to arrive. Good luck on the desicion and I know we all hope you join the Audi Family!

 
Thanks for the welcome!
 
Yeah, I'd be paying for the loaner as it's factored into the amoratization payments for the A3....but it works out to about $800 CAD to "rent" the A4 loaner for 90 days. Helluva deal as I'd have to pay about $175+/week to rent a POS compact (i.e. Focus, Aveo) from Budget. The dealer seems great so we'll see......I'm actually going for a follow up test drive today.

quote:

ORIGINAL: byrun

I'm coming from a Chevy Silverado the truck is handy and comfortable, but I don't really use it enough for the mpg I get. I'm going to keep the truck while I build my house, but it will be gone when finished. I have a hard time with cars like the G35, Lexus etc. they seem to be all hp and tires with not much else. Yea they are fast, but without those big tires and computer controls they are too soft for me. Maybe because I'm old too and set in my ways and remember all the fun I had in MGs and TRs

Growing old isn't the problem, getting soft is ;)

 
I love 4X4s....I just wish I could afford to keep my FJ and get an A3! Gotta keep buying lottery tickets!

Lava should have tested a premium suspension A3 instead.