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[sm=signs003.gif] with your Lexus. I agree with ottoaudi & lavadrifter, very nice car (get the 350!). It looks like you have enough info to be verysatisfied with your choice. Kudos to you.

I too, came from a 4x4 (I'm getting oldalso & don't go offroading much anymore).I miss being able to run over things but am loving everything elsethat's been stated.L7, you are right on!!

Many of us also dream of of the S5 [sm=sigh.gif], and maybe your next car will be an Audi!

[sm=icon_cheers.gif]

 

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 isfast 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

 

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.