Review: Audi 8P1 A3 (2004-11)

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• High quality interior fit and finish
• Excellent dynamics
• Willing engines (except 1.6-litre petrol)

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• Suspension not as compliant as Volkswagen Mk.5 Golf
• BMW E87 1-Series has more engaging handling and steering

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Review: Audi 8P1.I A3 (2004-08)

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Overview

Released June 2004, the Audi 8P1 Series I (8P1.I) A3 was a three-door hatchback (the five-door A3 Sportback has been revised separately). Manufactured in Ingolstadt, the Audi 8P1.I A3 range initially consisted of the 1.6, 2.0 FSI, 2.0 TDI and 3.2 variants; beyond the variants, the A3 was also offered in Attraction and better-equipped Ambition editions.

In October 2005, the Audi A3 range was reduced to the 1.6 Attraction and 2.0 FSI Ambition, solely available with manual and automatic transmissions, respectively. These models were updated and fitted with an upgraded electronic stability control system with variable steering assistance and the introduction of ‘hill hold assist’; the optional sports suspension settings were also revised for improved ride quality. Visually, these updated models could be identified by their single-frame grilles; inside, there were three- and four-spoke steering wheels. In 2007, the 1.8 TFSI was introduced, effectively replacing the 2.0 FSI.

Dimensions and suspension

Compared to the Audi 8L A3 , the 8P1 A3 was 51 mm longer (at 4203 mm), 30 mm wider (1765 mm), 10 mm lower (1421 mm) and had a 65 mm longer wheelbase (2578 mm). The A3 had MacPherson strut front suspension with triangular wishbones and four-link independent rear suspension. The A3 was also fitted with an electromechanical, speed-sensitive steering system. [su_table responsive=”yes”]

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quattro and electronic differential lock

The Audi A3 3.2 was fitted with a second generation Haldex all-wheel drive system which consisted of Haldex electronically-controlled multi-plate clutch and an open rear differential. In normal conditions, 90 per cent of the engine’s torque was directed to the front axle, but up to 50 per cent of the engine’s torque could be directed to the rear wheels in the event that traction was lost.

The Audi A3 3.2 also had an open front differential with an electronic differential lock – this enabled a spinning wheel to be braked, effectively transferring torque to the opposing front wheel. As such, the inside front wheel could be braked when cornering to reduce understeer.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Audi 8P1 A3 included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags (i.e. for front and rear occupants), ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Euro NCAP crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing , a 2003 Audi 8P1 A3 1.6 received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 29.3. In the offset crash test, protection from serious leg injury was marginal for the driver. In the side impact test, there was a slight risk of serious chest injury for the driver.

Features: A3 Attraction and Ambition

Standard features for the Audi 8P1 A3 Attraction editions included 16-inch alloy wheels, an eight speaker stereo with CD player, dual zone climate control air conditioning, split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment and an immobiliser.

The A3 Ambition variants were further equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels with sports suspension, contoured sports seats and scuff plates, while the A3 1.8 TFSI added cruise control.

Features: A3 3.2

Compared to the A3 Ambition, the range-topping Audi A3 3.2 was distinguished by its six-disc CD player, combination alcantara and leather seats, xenon headlights and alarm.

Related links

Review: Audi 8P1.II A3 (2008-11)

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Overview

Released in October 2008, the Audi 8P1 Series II (8P1.II) A3 range was reduced to the 1.6 Attraction model, which was fitted with a new seven-speed double clutch transmission (Audi’s ‘S-Tronic’). Visually, the 8P1.II A3 could be identified by its daytime running lights, modified grille and revised front and rear ends. [su_table responsive=”yes”]

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Features: A3 Attraction

Compared to its 8P1.I predecessor, standard features for the Audi 8P1.II A3 1.6 Attraction were extended to include a ten speaker stereo with MP3-compatibility and trip computer; heated mirrors, however, were omitted.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Audi 8P A3