irenesbob

Close LOL

letaub

The A3 does NOT come with a valet key; it just comes with two keys, as noted in the manual. Nor does it come with an emergency key.

My 2005 A4 had an emergency key, a valet key, and also had lockable seat backs, so the valet would not be able to get into the trunk. No seat locks on the new A3.

All of this is mentioned in the manual.

snagitseven

Sounds like some of the cost savings to get the A3/S3 to price points below the A4/S4.

irenesbob

I am more cynical. I think it is an intended de-contenting move to “encourage” A3/S3 shoppers (especially ones new to Audi) to move up to pricier (higher profit margin) Audi models. That being said, I am not implying anything bad about Audi, it seems like a good strategic marketing move.

link1305

I don't know, this seems like a feature that very few people would think about asking about before buying a car. Doesn't seem like a differentiator.

Quattro_Quattro

Agreed. It didn't even cross my mind until now.

irenesbob

My point is that after buying an A3 a person might find enough things/features lacking in the A3 (but that the higher priced models have) to subsequently upgrade to an A4 or A6 for their next Audi to get these features. It is an attempt to get the buyer hooked as a long-term Audi owner, but ensure each time you buy, you spend more money. They wouldn't skimp enough on A3 content to turn you off on Audi, but they always hold something better you might want for the upscale models to tempt you to splurge when it is time for a new car. There is a technical business school term for this sort of thing, but I forget it.

Spoonie G

Not interested in a larger car. Some folks buy the A3/S3 because of it's compactness. A valet key isn't going to make me want to get a larger car. I'm trying to think of any features that would and I'm drawing blanks.

irenesbob

Understood, I am kind of the same way. Corporate Marketing is aimed at a broad scope of potential buyers, many of whom IMO are swayed by wanting more and bigger.

rfortson

Sorry to bump an old thread, but I'm looking for a valet key for when I go surfing. Obviously, I can't stick the electric fob in my shorts while I swim around in salt water. My JSW had a valet key that I used just for that purpose. I could even (I guess) leave the fob in the car to start the car, but I just need a way to lock up while I'm out in the water.

Options/suggestions?