2009 Audi A3 Gets a Nose Job

When a new or revised model gets announced, we usually list bullet points on what it competes with, what it looks like, what’s under the hood, etc. Those bullet points kind of shout to the reader “Hey, look at me, I’ve been updated or introduced!” The 2009 Audi A3, however, gets some … new headlights and taillights. 

We’re intentionally downplaying the model-year changes in part because Audi themselves only released one photo for the U.S., which doesn’t show the rear of the car at all. That is, in fact, a portion that they say they’ve changed. Nor do we get a look at the “fine-tuned” interior which actually remains the same, except for new coloring and “decorative inlays.”

Engine choices also remain the same with the 200-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder or 250-hp, 3.2-liter six-cylinder with Quattro all-wheel drive. Quattro will be an option on the 2.0 models. There is a new dual-clutch transmission teamed to the larger engine. A new option is Audi’s magnetic ride system, which allows drivers to change the suspension for sport or comfort. This would also raise the price of what many consider an already pricey little luxury vehicle; it starts just under $26,000. But hey, you get LED headlamps now.

Prices for 2009 haven’t been announced, but it will go on sale this fall. We don’t expect a big price bump. Check out photos of how the 2009 compares to the 2008 below. 

Comments

I saw official rear photos on almost every other car site about the revised A3. Kinda puzzled as to why cars.com does not have them. Having seen them I don't like the new rear end, they ditched the more stylized tailights to look more like squares with rounded corners.

Adam,
Those are official for the European spec A3 only. I could certainly post them and we have in the past with a disclaimer that they'll probably be VERY SIMILAR if not IDENTICAL to the U.S. spec.

However, I think Audi should get off their duffs and deliver us "official" U.S. spec images. To say only this single photo is relevant to car shoppers I think is wrong which is exactly what they did.

You are right to be upset but please direct that frustration at Audi.

Well I was not upset, just puzzled..

I don't like the head light led "eye lashes". It makes the car too feminine. I hope they are not on the A4 too as my lease is coming due this Summer.

Peter
the new A4 is officially known. Here's a link. Headlights look mean to me.
http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2008/01/a4.html

No matter which headlights they use, it's still a severely overpriced Rabbit.

I looked at the A3s and like them much but one thing that bothered me was no Quattro on the 2.0T (I was looking used, so at least not the ones in my price range.) Other than that, its a sure winner for Audi.

Adrock,
Yes, the new 2009 will offer quattro on the 2.0 for the first time. I'd still like to see a $1,000 less on the msrp because it is so easy to option up.

Does anyone have insight on when the 2009 price list for the USA market will be released to the Dealers?

Currently looking at buying an A3, but it doesn't really make sense to pick up a leftover 2008, when I can custom-order an 09 to get the features I want without the superflous extra baggage that's driving up the prices of the remaining '08 inventory.

-hh