A Rookie Recruit Bound for Superstardom: 2015 Audi A3

In the world of sports, when a rookie arrives on the professional scene, fresh off their collegiate career, they're bound to either boom or bust.  So too, is this the case in the automotive realm.  All-new models will either rise to the top, or sink to the bottom, never quite actualizing their once-promising potential.  Fortunately for us at Team Audi - and for folks throughout the larger Hobart, Crown Point, Gary and Valparaiso, IN area - our spanking-new sedan, the 2015 Audi A3, most definitely falls into the former category.  It's a veritable first-year phenomenon.

One big aspect of this auto's appeal is its price point.  Starting at $29,900, the A3 is an excellent option for Audi enthusiasts and newcomers to the luxury market alike.  Of course, the A3 is not without some competition in its segment. Mercedes-Benz released its brand-new CLA sedan just last year. For a detailed breakdown of how the A3 stacks up to the CLA, please click here.

There are three, distinctive engine types available for the A3. They are as follows:

• 1.8 TFSI - Turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder - 170 hp/200 lb.-ft. of torque
• 2.0 TFSI - Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder - 220 hp/258 lb.-ft. of torque
• 2.0 TDI - Turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder - 150 hp/236 lb.-ft. of torque

Standardly equipped are both a six-speed automated manual transmission and front-wheel drive, though the quattro all-wheel-drive platform is offered as an option.  No doubt, Audi did a fantastic job providing a little bit of everything for everyone with the A3 engine range.

Want more muscle in your hustle?  Then the 2.0 TFSI may be the one for you, as its zero-to-60 mph time is the quickest of the A3 family, clocking in around 5.8 seconds.  Or, perhaps you pine for something a bit more pragmatic, something that'll save you some dough whilst on the go?  The TDI is that vehicle, as its fuel economy rating checks in at an incredible 36 mpg combined (31 city/43 highway).

There are two body style options for the A3: sedan, or two-door convertible, a model also known as the Cabriolet.  It's offered on one, very well-appointed trim level, Premium, but one can add to the features list by selecting either the Premium Plus or Prestige option packages.

To give you a sense of all that the base A3 brings to the table, we'd like to familiarize you to some of its standard features.  Such amenities include 17-inch wheels, automatic xenon headlamps, LED running lights, a sunroof, leather upholstery and 60/40-split-folding back seats.  We're also smitten by its tech-centric offerings, which include features like Bluetooth compatibility, the MMI infotainment interface, and a 10-speaker audio system, complete with CD player, satellite and HD radios and an SD card slot.

Of course, there is really only one way to experience this astounding auto: in person!  As such, we encourage you to pay us a visit at our Merrillville, IN dealership to put the A3 model of your choosing through its paces on the open road.