A First-Class Ride

Buying a new car can be intimidating, especially when you don’t know much about cars or the process. It’s a big investment and you have to do your homework before making a decision. Two years ago I was in the market for a new car. The possibilities seem endless. I started my research online, milling through websites featuring everything from fantasy to sports cars, convertibles to SUV’s. I have to admit I was stumped. Yes, I wanted a cool car (no minivan, please), but also wanted safety, utility, good gas mileage and something compact enough to function well in a city.   After much research I purchased an Audi A3. It was the best choice I could have made and I couldn’t be happier with my car. Here’s why:

   Great Design:

• The A3 is a hatchback. You can fold down the back seat and still have plenty of room for ski’s, bikes, a dog, etc. However, the car is still small and compact. This makes parking easy and also allows for decent gas mileage.

• Two sunroofs allow for a semi-convertible feel in the summer and lots of light in the winter.

I feel in control:

• The car is low to the ground and hugs the road like a race car. It’s not top heavy like an SUV. I have astonishing control even at high speeds and never feel off balance. This has proven especially useful in the many road trips I take and makes driving much more relaxing. I worry less about heavy winds or drafting from other vehicles or trucks pushing me around on the road.

• All wheel drive – super important for winters in the Midwest. I don’t worry about sliding off the road.

• Clear vision. The front window is huge and gives me almost panoramic view. The windows towards the rear are position for a minimal blind spot.

• The steering wheel is taut. If you move it, the car reacts immediately. This is useful in traffic and when passing other cars.  You don’t feel like you’re fighting the road or the car.

• Power on Demand. This car has instant acceleration. If I need to move fast, it goes. This definitely secures a sense of confidence.  My A3 is the sports version, so it also has a Sport Setting with Tiptronic controls (paddle shifters) located on the steering wheel. This allows for more speed and control, essentially allows you to control the car manually without grinding the clutch.

• The A3 comes with an Electronic Stabilization Program which improves the vehicles general stability and helps you maintain control when the car is having problems gripping the road. This helps during acceleration, cornering, and especially evident in inclimate weather conditions like heavy rain, ice or snow.  There is nothing scarier than hydroplaning and this prevents the car from skidding out. 

Maximium comfort:

• The interior seats are awesome…all leather with adjustable seat warmers.

• It has a great stereo that includes a radio, tape player and 6 disc CD player. The sound system can also be controlled using the buttons located on the steering wheel.  In other words, the driver is King!

• Power everything: windows, locks, side mirrors.

• Cruise control (again great for long trips).

•  The front and rear windshield wipers react automatically to debris or liquid. If it starts to rain I don’t even have to hit the wiper lever, it comes on for me.

• It’s BlueTooth enabled- which honestly I never use, but would be helpful for those who talk on their cell phones while driving.

• Heat:  Dual heat control. Both the driver and passages have their own temperature switches. I love this, because I usually tend to be cold when others are warm. Makes everyone happy.

Cons:

• The only con I can think of is that the back seats are a bit snug for passengers. The roof of the car tends to be low and this can be a bit uncomfortable for tall men.
  
  
  One of the best purchases I've ever made! Highly Recommended!