Hi everyone, well we might be considering an A3 for our next purchase. I j ust wanted to know which years are better? i've seen a few 2006, but read some reviews that where quite mixed. In terms of engines which is better? I like the 2.0T for gas consumption, but i know it has a timing belt not chain..right?
I like the 3.2 For the quattro, but guess it consumes a bit more, and heard it's not a really reliable engine..is this true?

any thoughts, opinions?? any info would be great...
thanks
Fabio

 

Unfortunately I can't answer all of your questions and I have only recently started looking into the a3 stuff. Here is some of the info I gathered:
- the a3 up to and including 2007 have a timing belt. Only after 2008 you will find the chain
- I "heard" that 2008 (and up) is a more reliable than previous ones when it comes to the TSB or recalls.
- Don't know about the 3.2 reliability but you cannot mod it as good as the 2.0t. Also the 3.2 is not available as a stick. Another factor is you cannot get the 2.0t as a stick with quattro at least not in america

 

I have a 2006 3.2 which I love. Has 54,000 miles on it and it needed a new thermostat about 8,000 miles ago. Am quite happy with it and opted for the 3.2 vice the 2.0 as I wanted the quattro.

 

not all 2008 2.0t's are the new engine. the ones with the timing chain instead of the belt are the TFSI engines and are considered 2008.5

i would definitely recommend a TSFI over an FSI. there's definitely some kinks they worked out with the TFSI after finding them in the FSI.

the 2.0 is more finnicky since it's a turbo, but it's so much more mod-able and fun in that way. if you're into tuning, i'd suggest getting the 2.0. plus the gas mileage is better

if you want something more reliable that you don't have to worry about as much, then get the 3.2 --- smooth, reliable power.