Audi A3 2.0FSI automatic 2004 Review

It's a struggle for this writer to justify more than $40,000 on a three-door hatchback. Sure, it's an Audi, and that means innovative, useful technology, high build quality, good vehicle dynamics and a strong resale value. But it's still a three-door hatch, regardless of the badge it wears.

Why the mental dilemma? Because Australians are spolit by large sedans from Ford and Holden with loads of room, powerful six-cylinder engines and plenty of equipment for a similar price. Against these monsters, cars like the Audi A3 put up a very weak argument.

But for some, it's not about size or power. Cars like the Commodore and Falcon don't fit with the urban lifestyle, ducking and weaving in cities and sneaking into cramped parking spaces. Which is where hatchbacks come in. And what if you want to spoil yourself with a better than average car? A vehicle that speaks about your personal successes or one that promotes your own values?

A touch of the good life doesn't have to be expensive, and the A3 is not expensive. It's not cheap either, but then it's not built to be. There's no question of the A3's highly-rigid body structure, or the car's passive safety features. There's also no question of its dynamic abilities or the smooth ride and quiet cabin.

The engine's a willing accomplice to motor-vation; the six-speed DSG automatic gearbox is a revelation in near-seamless ratio changes. The only clue to a new gear is the drop in engine sound and falling tachometer.

Everything about the A3 is -- quite simply -- right. It's hard to find a serious fault, though minor niggles like the too-black interior, less-then intuitive stereo and overly firm seats could be ironed out.

If you compare the cheaper 2004 Peugeot 307XSi two-door hatch with the Audi A3 2.0FSI the differences -- and indeed the extra $7000 value -- start to emerge. For example the Audi has two more speakers, rear seat curtain airbags, a driver's footrest, sports suspension, traction control, a six-speed automatic gearbox instead of four, three year warranty instead of two years...

The differences are there; the justification for the extra price is there, too. Look closely at an Audi A3 and the price is not out of kilter with the value it offers.

So, is the A3 2.0 FSI a good buy? Is it a car worth spending forty large on? Yes, if you're in the market for a premium European hatchback. If you just want transport, then try a Corolla or a Pulsar, but if you want more then Audi offers plenty more.

Options on test car:

Read more on the Audi A3:

» CarPoint's review on the Audi A3 range

» CarPoint's 7 Day Test on the Audi A3 Sportback 3.2 DSG

» CarPoint's 7 Day Test on the Audi A3 2.0TDi automatic