2008 Audi A3

1. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe

Though Consumer Reports editors haven't road-tested the A3 since 2006, the year of its U.S. debut, they do provide updated information on specifications and safety. They also offer up documentation on predicted reliability, based on past-model-year reader surveys.

Review: 2008 Audi A3, Editors of Consumer Reports magazine

2. ConsumerGuide.com

The 2008 Audi A3 receives a "Recommended" label, with editors recognizing its handling, finish and basic control layout as strengths. They point out that the backseat is a little restrictive, however, and complain that the optional navigation system complicates some of the audio controls.

Review: 2008 Audi A3, Editors of ConsumerGuide.com, July 31, 2008

3. Edmunds.com

Editors here evaluate the 2008 Audi A3 on performance, design and safety, and they include an easy-to-understand narrative analysis of the results. They say that the Audi A3 is a good value in the entry-level luxury segment, but that it may be unsuitably small for some buyers.

Review: 2008 Audi A3 Review, Editors of Edmunds.com

4. CarCritic.comDetails/Subscribe

Vorderman focuses on long-term predicted reliability and depreciation. The 2008 Audi A3 is fun and loaded with high-tech features, and ' its predicted dependability ratings have improved somewhat.

Review: 2008 Audi A3, Don Vorderman

5. Road & TrackDetails/Subscribe

Road & Track magazine's Jonathan Elfalan reports on editors' long-term testing of the Audi A3, which began in November 2005. According to Elfalan, their 2006 A3 test model has been an exceptional performer, racking up some 50,000 miles while maintaining both its fun quotient and its mechanical integrity.

Review: Long-Term Test: 2006 Audi A3 2.0 T DSG, Jonathan Elfalan, Aug. 2007

6. ForbesAutos.com

Reviewer Phil Patton lists seven vehicles, including the Audi A3, as "Hot New Hatchbacks" for 2008. Descriptions of each car are brief, but links leading to longer, more detailed reviews are provided.

Review: Hatchback Comeback, Phil Patton, Oct. 22, 2007

7. Automobile Magazine

Editors here briefly evaluate the 2007 Audi A3 3.2 Quattro in this slightly dated (though still useful) review. Handling and powertrain performance are highlights, but a jerky clutch response is sometimes noted. The A3's price is another point of contention.

Review: 2007 Audi A3 3.2, Editors of Automobile

8. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

The 2008 Audi A3 is one of only two cars in its class to receive the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation, meaning it receives the highest crash-test ratings.

Review: Top Safety Picks 2008, Editors at IIHS.gov