2003 AUDI A3 1.6L FSI 5MT (115 HP)

Vehicle Overview

There were not too many compact-segment premium hatchbacks in 2003 when Audi introduced the second generation of its Golf-based vehicle.

When Audi launched the first generation of the A3, many people laughed and asked why someone would pay more money for a stylish Golf. But the German carmaker proved that it was the right car at the right moment. Even though it shared its underpinnings with its more famous brother from VW, it had some extra features that made the A3 a best-seller.

Walter da Silva penned the A3’s second generation and installed the new front grille design theme introduced on the Audi A8 W12. Unlike the A3 Sportback, which was longer and featured five doors, the A3 offered only two wide ones. Its look, with an ascending beltline and raked-forward C-pillars, showed a sportier image than its sibling. Even though it was based on the same PQ35 platform as the Golf, it looked different. At the back, the car received a new bumper and corner-mounted taillights, smaller than on its sibling. Its third stop-light was installed on the roof spoiler.

Inside, the carmaker installed a new instrument cluster with a four-dial layout where the speedometer and tachometer flanked an LCD. At the same time, the upper side of the panel showed the fuel level and coolant temperature gauges. Depending on the trim level, the A3 featured either wood or aluminum trims. At the front, there was room enough even for tall occupants, but in the back, the carmaker offered limited legroom when compared with the five-door version. Still, it was adequate for average-sized passengers.