Overview & Reviews

Introduced in the mid-1990s in Europe and brought to the United States in 2006, the A3 is Audi's entry-level model for the North American market. Smaller and lighter than the A4, the Audi A3 presents a strong argument for buying a bargain sport sedan or wagon, provided one goes easy on the options. And just because this is Audi's entry-level car doesn't mean the company cuts corners on quality. The cabin's design and materials are up to the lofty standards Audi has set for the industry, meaning everything fits tightly, moves with precision and looks and feels top-shelf.

Those considering a used version of this junior Audi should know that most of the ones they see for sale will be the wagon, which was the only body style available until 2015. For many the A3 will be an alternative choice -- few luxury automakers bother making small hatchbacks. As such, it's an upscale alternative to more mainstream hatchbacks and a cheaper alternative to a luxury wagon or sedan. Furthermore, with the clean-burning diesel engine option it also makes an extremely-fuel efficient alternative to hybrids. But whether you're considering an A3 wagon or sedan, it offers the distinct German flavor of Audi, that being one of engineering excellence combined with an upscale cabin.

Current Audi A3
Introduced for 2015, the latest version of the Audi A3 comes solely in a four-door sedan body style, although a convertible is rumored to debut within the model year. Initially, there are two main trim levels: the front-wheel-drive 1.8 TFSI and the all-wheel-drive 2.0 TFSI. A diesel-powered TDI version is set to debut later in the model year.

The 1.8 TFSI has a turbocharged 1.8-liter four that produces 170 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque. The 2.0 TFSI has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four with 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come matched to a six-speed automated manual transmission.

Both the 1.8 and 2.0 A3s start off in Premium trim and offer two available packages, dubbed Premium Plus and Prestige. Highlights of the Premium include xenon headlights, a sunroof, leather upholstery, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a 10-speaker sound system. The Premium Plus adds keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone climate control and heated front seats. The Prestige features LED headlights, added exterior styling tweaks, power-folding side mirrors, a navigation system, Audi Connect (WiFi hotspot and various smartphone applications) and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Options include a Sport package, adaptive cruise control, a lane departure warning system and a front collision warning and braking system.

In reviews, we've been impressed with the Audi A3's grown-up personality; it feels more like an honest-to-goodness luxury car rather than a fancy compact. The ride is composed and comfortable, the cabin is quiet and the turbocharged engines provide plenty of punch around town and on the freeway. Superb fuel economy helps as well. Surprisingly, the A3 doesn't feel especially sprightly when driving around town, due to its somewhat light and numb steering feel at lower speeds. However, it perks up when driven with more enthusiasm. Particularly when equipped with the 2.0-liter engine and all-wheel drive, the A3 feels like a running back in bankers' clothing.

Used Audi A3 Models
The previous-generation Audi A3 was introduced as a 2006 model in the United States and was produced through 2013. There was no 2014 model. It came only in a four-door hatchback body style that some might consider a small wagon.

A 2.0-liter, 200-hp turbocharged inline-4 and front-wheel drive were standard. Audi offered either a six-speed manual transmission or a quick-shifting six-speed automated manual transmission (S tronic). All-wheel drive was optional starting in 2009, and it came with the S tronic transmission. From 2006-'09 a 3.2-liter V6 engine was available that produced 250 hp. It was outfitted with all-wheel drive and the S tronic transmission as standard. Starting in 2010, Audi began offering a 140-hp, 2.0-liter diesel-powered engine (TDI). It came as front-wheel drive only and had the S tronic transmission.

Originally, the A3 came in 2.0T and 3.2 Quattro trim levels. Standard features on the 2.0T included 17-inch wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control and a 10-speaker audio system. The "S line" Package provided a sport-tuned suspension, sport seats with leather upholstery and special exterior styling. The Premium package also included some of the S line's items but added a power driver seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and rain-sensing wipers. The 3.2 Quattro included almost all of the equipment from the S line and Premium packages as standard. Notable options on both trim levels were xenon headlights, a sunroof, a navigation system, Bluetooth, iPod integration and a Cold Weather package.

The most significant changes for this generation took place for 2009. The exterior and interior were refreshed, most notably with Audi's signature larger grille and LED running lights. Leather upholstery, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack became standard equipment, while the 2.0T could now be equipped with all-wheel drive. For 2010, new Premium and Premium Plus trim level names debuted. From then on through 2013, only minor equipment updates took place.

In reviews at the time, we found that this generation of A3 struck an agreeable balance between athletic handling and a comfy ride. With the base 2.0-liter engine, it provided energetic acceleration along with good fuel economy. The V6 was a little quicker, but not dramatically so. The A3 TDI's ample low-end torque was nice around town but the engine could feel winded at higher speeds. As for passenger space, the A3's hatchback design provided some added versatility, but the small rear seat was cramped for adults.

User Reviews:

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  A great smaller Audi - 2015 Audi A3
  By - January 25 - 1:22 am

  I traded a 2013 A4 for an A3 2.0 Premium Plus Quattro. Its about a foot shorter than the A4 and feels sportier and quicker since it has the same engine but is smaller and lighter. The interior is definitely up to Audi standards, but the CD player is placed in the glove box, making it useless when the driver is alone (unless you want to drive into a ditch changing a CD!). The handling is sporty, steering seems tighter than the A4, and the car rides just as well as its larger cousin. The engine is quiet and smooth but there seems to be more road noise than the A4, probably due to less sound insulation. Mileage has been impressive, quite a bit better than the A4. Comfort and space int the front seat seem equal to the A4 but the back is understandably tighter. The bucket seats are firm and comfortable on a long trip. Overall, I love this car--it has Audis classy styling and quality in a smaller package thats fun to drive.

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  Great car, not perfect. - 2015 Audi A3
  By Aron Ma - July 21 - 8:23 pm

  Pros: Low MSRP for a luxury car. Interior was extremely well built. Very quiet ride, very comfortable. Driving was great besides acceleration. Good fuel economy if you dont drive it very hard. Cons: Tight headroom for the backseat. Subpar cargo capacity, less than a BMW 3 series. Slow acceleration. I think this car is amazing! If you dont mind the cargo being slightly smaller than average, Id say this is the best compact car EVER! Besides, the cargo space is enough unless your carrying something huge, in which case you dont want ANY compact sedan. Be aware that this is my opinion on this car, your experience will most likely be different.

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  First Teutonic love affair - 2015 Audi A3
  By alex768 - May 27 - 2:33 pm

  This is my first Audi and I have to say Im in love. The little 1.8 pulls hard at the lower end and the grip is seemingly endless. I constantly catch myself pushing its limits in the corners and even when the limit is hit the electric steering does a good job of letting me know. When not bombing corners, the car is incredibly composed and serene, especially at highway speeds. Ive never been happier and Im actually let down when I hop in any other vehicle. The audi service department is also excellent. Whenever I go in for an oil change or otherwise they seem to throw me the keys to a rental and get everything taken care of quickly.

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  All round excellence! - 2015 Audi A3
  By markrn1 - May 25 - 2:39 pm

  I have driven my 2015 Audi A3 for 1 week as of today. I have a Premium and only upgrade is to cold weather package. This car delivers an excellent value for the purchase price and is surprisingly well equipped for a base, entry level model. It has standard sun-roof, leather seats, an incredibly easy to use MMI system and with my upgrade heated seats. Working with my Audi sales rep was a very pleasant and experience and my purchase was made both easy and fun. Trading from a Jeep Commander, I was concerned about how I would feel driving a small sedan again, but the A3 feels confident and controlled. Couldnt be happier!

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  Truth in Mpg 44.2 - 2015 Audi A3
  By dilbert1463 - May 1 - 8:12 pm

  With a 100 mile a day commute I need safety, mpg, comfort, and highway manners. The A3 is a top safety pick plus. The TDI is delivering 49 mpg on the highway. At 61" it fits and feels great, just dont sit behind me. On the highway the 236 torque is there to merge pass and keep up without screaming downshifts.

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  My favorite Audi yet - 2015 Audi A3
  By tlutzy - April 4 - 7:41 am

  I am a fan of Audis because of their design (elegant and innovative), quality (fit and finish) and general reliability (I have not experienced some of the problems with Audis that other owners have). The 2015 A3 is my eighth Audi and fast becoming my favorite. While I had to get the prestige and sport packages to have the car equipped the way I wanted it ($$$) it is well worth it. I love the styling, minimalist interior (think uncluttered but functional), intuitive MMI with handwriting recognition, and power (think fun to drive, agile and fast).

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  1st time Audi Owner/Love the TDI - 2015 Audi A3
  By dann902 - March 14 - 8:07 pm

  My last 2 vehicles have been BMWs. I was open to other German automakers and very interested in a diesel vehicle because of the fuel economy. I was also looking at the 15 328d, but ended up with the A3 as it was more affordable (also smaller). My last vehicle was a V8 550i with very poor gas mileage. Now with my new A3 TDI I am getting 45-48 mpg on my commute to work. The interior is very simple but elegant and uses high quality materials. I got the sport package and the sport seats are very comfortable. I am very happy with my purchase because I accompanied my goal of finding a vehicle that is very practical, fuel efficient, a luxury brand, and not too expensive. I highly recommend the A3

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  Great Mix of Sport and Luxury. - 2015 Audi A3
  By sfast81 - June 19 - 9:10 am

  This car is great and well rounded. If you are looking for a all wheel drive vehicle with a luxury name that is also fast look no further! The 2.0 Quattro is the way to go. BMW has a sweet 2 series but its coupe only and no AWD. The mercedes CLA is nice but does not match the performance of the A3. I also liked that Audi installed a S tronic sport tranmission in this car not just a normal CVT Trans that is in the A4.

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  My new obsession - 2015 Audi A3
  By melillobm - May 20 - 11:05 am

  So Ive had my new A3 1.8T for a little over a week now. In short, this car is a great buy. This really is just the "smaller Audi," not the cheaper Audi as other luxury brands now have. Comparing it to my older A4, it delivers all of the same luxury and new tech! Im a car addict. I get a new car every 6 months. Ive driven a lot of new cars so I can give you a well-rounded review. I traded a 2014 Maxima for it. The technology in this car will blow you away, unless you drive a Tesla. It reminds me of the wonders of the 2000-2004 Jetta and Audi A4. Small and luxurious, with great acceleration for a 4cyl, great gas mileage, and amazingly spacious where it looks like it could never be.

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  Love it! - 2015 Audi A3
  By chitag - May 15 - 11:40 am

  Im a few weeks into my new 2015 Audi A3 after having had several VWs (Eos, Rabbit, and a Jetta). I love it!! I got white with black interior, premium plus, sports package, and bang & olufsen speakers. I didnt get the MMI navigation simply because I wont use it -- so why pay for it. I think the most surprising thing for me is just how fun the car is to drive. Its zippy especially in sport mode. Its definitely not "just another Jetta." The engine/transmission is completely different than VWs, and it really has a lot more power. Plus, with quattro, its all wheel drive. Its definitely worth the money. Its very nice all the bells and whistles you want and need.