Strengths
- Quattro + 354bhp V6 is genuinely quick year-round
- Sport diff is well-tuned
- Cabin is segment-leading
Weaknesses
- No manual ever in B9 (B5/B6/B7/B8 all had manuals)
- Steering numbness
- Boot is small for the class
Notable tech
- MLB Evo platform
- 48V mild-hybrid (post-2020 mid-cycle)
- 8-speed Tiptronic
- Quattro standard
- Sport rear differential
- Adaptive damping optional
Common issues
- EA839 V6 oil consumption
- 48V isolation faults
- Tiptronic shift quality complaints early B9
Used-market budget
$32,000
Typical price point for a well-maintained example with full service history. Cars priced significantly below this often require remedial work.