2008 Audi A3 Sportback 1.6L 5MT (102 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Audi introduced a facelifted version of the A3’s second generation in 2008, and those updates were also featured on its five-door version, also known as Sportback.

The German automaker tried its luck with the A3 in 1996 when it launched it since it was based on the same platform as the Golf. Some critics said that it was just a more expensive version for that, and judging by many aspects, that was right. But along with the second generation of this hatchback, some features and drivetrains differentiated these German hatchbacks even more. In addition, the premium-oriented sibling wasn’t available as a station wagon.

The second generation of the A3 was offered in three body versions: three-door, five-door, and a convertible with soft-top. At the front, it sported the “single-frame” grille introduced by the A8, which gained more fans. A redesigned front bumper was present as well. The five-door version was slightly longer than its three-door sibling, although it didn’t gain anything in the wheelbase. The automaker enlarged the rear overhang to accommodate the posterior doors and still provide a decent trunk.

Inside, the five-door version received an updated instrument panel, ditching the old red TFT display from within the main dials. Instead, it got a new LCD that showed more information pleasantly. In addition, on the center stack, Audi provided a touchscreen for the infotainment system as an option. Finally, thanks to the five-door bodywork, the Sportback offered easier ingress and egress to the vehicle for the rear-seated passengers.

Under the hood were engines from as little as a 1.2-liter up to a 3.2-liter V6 unit. Depending on the powerplant and trim level, the A3 was equipped with manual or DSG (dual-clutch) gearboxes.