2009 Audi A3

Audi's 2009 A3 hatchback receives its first styling update. Though the car's overall shape and proportions are the same, changes are evident in the entire front end, including the hood, headlights, fenders, bumper and grille. Out back is a new rear bumper and new taillights. New door handles, mirror-incorporated turn signals and new wheels complete the exterior freshening.

Inside, aluminum accents the air vents, light switches, and center console, while the control switches beneath the stereo have been updated. The instruments feature black dial gauges with red needles.

Audi's 6-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission is now optional on 2.0L A3s, and the company's quattro all-wheel-drive system, standard on the 3.2L V6-powered A3, is now available on 2.0L A3s with S-tronic. Magnetic Ride Control adjustable suspension is now optional. It allows the driver to select between "Normal" and "Sport" modes depending upon the driving scenario.

Audi's 2009 A3 offers a lot of car in a small package, but it carries its diminutive size with a solidity--that is unusual. In addition to eager 2.0L and 3.2L engines and one of the best interiors in its class, this five-door hatchback is a marvelous choice for those who want a car that combines the nimbleness of a sports car with the cargo capabilities of a mini-wagon. An optional S-Line Package combines a stiffer suspension with higher performance tires and a few pieces of body trim to make the front-wheel drive A3 into a well-mannered street racer. The A3 was named a Top Safety Pick in 2008 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The A3, which has been sold in Europe since 1996, was adapted for the U.

S. market in 2005. Audi sells the A3 as "the first four-door car with the sportiness of a TT coupe." The base engine is a smooth 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder that makes 200 hp and 207 ft-lb of torque, and is available with front-wheel drive. The 2.0T comes standard with a precise 6-speed manual gearbox that has light and easy clutch action. Audi's S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission, based on technology pioneered in their Le Mans-winning race cars, is optional. The S-tronic shifts either automatically or with the pull of a steering column-mounted paddle, and it always has the next gear ready for quick engagement.

On the A3 S-Line, the throaty 250-hp, narrow-angle 3.2L V6 is paired with the S-tronic and quattro, Audi's tried and true all-wheel-drive system. Audi has done an outstanding job with its subtle updates to the exterior and interior of the A3, with an attractive, completely revised front end and an upgraded interior appearance. All body panels have tight seams and appealing lines, and the interior materials are all top notch. The A3 is well equipped with standard items, including 17-inch alloy wheels, hill hold assist, leather seating, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, power windows, locks, and mirrors, 10-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo, and more.

Options include a power sunroof, rear side airbags, a navigation system with a glovebox-mounted 6-CD changer, heated seats and mirrors, and two Sport Packages offering sport seats, sport suspension, larger wheels and tires, and Audi's Magnetic Ride Control adjustable suspension.

Standard safety equipment includes antilock circuitry on all four disc brakes, and brake assist helps give full braking power for panic stops. The electronic stability program keeps the A3 planted, while front, side, and head curtain air bags protect occupants in the event of a collision.

Audi's execution is first rate, and all in all the A3 delivers a quality driving experience in an updated, shapely package.