I'm getting my new 08-A3 this week { drool } and I've got a question - since I don't have the actual car in front of me - I was considering buying a full sized replacement tyre and rim. { rims to match what's on car -> 17" 5 arm from 08 S line 2.0t }

Will the spare tyre compartment in the rear - fit a full sized spare - correctly?

Thanks -


** I do a lot of long distance driving - occasionally some of it through Utah and Colorado during ski season. Depending on where I am, a cheap 'donut' isn't going to give me much peace of mind. { besides leaving me hobbled and frustrated with having to drive slow - just try getting a decent replacment tyre out in 'sticksville' - gonna be camping out while fedex delivers 2 day on non-primary routes! }

 

Unless the dimensions have changed dramatically since the '06, no way is that going to fit. That is assuming you still want it to sit below the trunk deck.

 

Actually, I have an '06 and had to change my flat tire once. The full size flat tire did fit in the space designated for the compact spare. The trunk deck even came down relatively flush with the rest of the trunk.

On a side note - my friend has an A4 and I've noticed they have a full size spare, with the matching rim and everything! Kinda sucks they skimped the full size spare on the A3.

 

yah i know! even my 2001 GOLF came with a full size spare...hmmm.
definitely a shocker when the salesman lifted the cover. oh well. pretty minor i guess.

 

The older A3, used to have a matching spare, but the new models obviously don't.

 

trentune_f,

IIRC, the full size 17" will fit, I was going to get one, but decided against because of the weight. You bring up a good point, I could buy one and store it, then put it in for trips.[8D]

 

Thanks for all the info - it's a shame it doesn't come with a fullsized tyre and rim. [:@]

* azoceanblue - you bring up an interesting question { and good solution btw } - I know the 'donut' spare is a steel 'disk' rim. Is the alloy rim really that much heavier?