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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  Tire noise destroys a good relationship - 2008 Audi A3
  By fbclt - August 20 - 9:50 am

  I had read other reviews that indicated tire noise could be a problem, especially with the Pirelli P6 tires. I thought I had escaped that fate as the first year was great lots of fun to drive, average 32.5 mpg overall, reasonably peppy and good brakes and handling. After the 16,000 miles service and tire rotation the tire howl began. I returned to Audi service who tell me that alignment and suspension are in spec and the tires are cupped which is causing the road noise. The noise has only gotten worse. Plenty of tread left but unless the Pirelli tire dealer I see Saturday does something to adjust this, I will have to report to Audi and Pirelli that they have lost a customer for life.

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  Livesaver! - 2007 Audi A3
  By washes - August 17 - 10:45 am

  We got the A3 because it was fun to drive and was a luxury wagon. Last week my husband was stopped in traffic on the highway and was rear ended by a Dodge Caravan going 50-60 MPH. The A3 is a total loss with over 19,000 in visual damage alone. The safety features in this car cant be beat, while my husband has some injuries he was able to walk away from a serious multi-vehicle accident.

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  Dont buy - 2009 Audi A3
  By gisrail - July 28 - 9:35 am

  So much for German engineering they have not discovered aluminium. All the interior design is in plastic with silly parts that break and are not covered by the warranty. I used the back seat arm rest once and it broke I plugged an ipod in the cigarette lighter and it broke the two moon light roof hatches broke the bolt that holds the spare tire broke, etc. In addition, the car gets a check engine light every six months (and deal with the service people.) Its the only brand that charges for rental car while on service, contrary to what they said at purchase.

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  The perfect commuter car - 2006 Audi A3
  By bradley_earl - July 14 - 11:06 pm

  Living in Los Angeles, this car nearly perfectly suits my urban needs. The DSG transmission is brilliant. It actually shifts faster than the manual, which (according to Motortrend) translates to faster 0-60 times than the manual as well. Shifting is as easy as driving a playstation car- yet a visceral experience equal to the best of any performance car Ive driven. The 2.0T is perky, and offers plenty of performance- unfortunately, more than the suspension and all-season tires can handle. Fit and finish are typical Audi- which is to say exceptional. The interior is a blend between the A4 and the TT. It isnt nearly as industrially stark as the TT, and yet not as anonymous as the A4.

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  Little red wagon - 2006 Audi A3
  By lark - July 9 - 4:53 pm

  Fun to drive and gives you confidence that it will always go where you point it .....the over all package is very nice.

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  Entry Level Luxury - 2009 Audi A3
  By Willow - July 8 - 4:36 pm

  A well conceived vehicle. Lots of utility with a great mix of style, luxury, comfort, sport and utility. Perfect for people who live in large urban cities.

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  Now I Get It! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Florida commuter - May 22 - 2:21 pm

  I needed a decent mileage, daily commuter that I could live with. Looked at domestic and Japanese offerings - settled on an 06 A3, 2.0T, DSG, 25,000 miles for $19k. The hatch layout provides extra room when I need it. This car is fun, fun, fun. Dont know how I ever lived without DSG trans. My 1st Audi and handles awesome. Had a 09 S4 convertible loaner during last service w/o DSG and couldnt wait to get mine back. Both front and back armrest latches have broken and there was a turbo problem - handled under warranty with loaner. The little problems are worth the fun factor for me!

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  Great car--lousy service - 2006 Audi A3
  By bob52r - May 15 - 11:28 pm

  This 06 A3 has been described to me as over engineered. When the car works well--95% of the time it is fantastic. When the a/c compressor went, it took 3 visits to the dealer with them telling that nothing was wrong, until I went crazy and an exec got into the car and told the service manager I was right. The radio switches stations on its own randomly--Audi says its my imagination and I should buy my own aftermarket replacement etc.....I really dont know if the collection just has bad service or Audi USA is not consumer friendly --as they blame each other. 4 or 5 other thing have gone wrong over 21,000 miles. Not horrible, but not top reliability. Its a fight to get the dealer to fix it?

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  Gets in its own way - 2008 Audi A3
  By big mountain - May 14 - 9:05 pm

  This is a great car if you like going to the dealer. Mechanically, it is perfect but the build quality is a disaster. Handles great, fast, average over 30 mpg in a mixed commute. Easy to park in the city. All of the doors have been taken apart for wiring harnesses being out of the clips. The radio was a mess. Seat belt receiver replaced, etc. Now I have 2 mystery rattles, the drivers door handle and an exhaust rattle.

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  Very VERY Disappointed - 2006 Audi A3
  By Baz Naz - May 4 - 2:34 pm

  I was excited to finally own an Audi. At first the car was fun to drive then things started to go wrong at around 12,000 miles. First the diaphragm for the turbo. Then the DSM Transmission failed. Had to get towed. After my dealer rebuilt the transmission the car lurches into gear never a smooth take off. Last week the entire cam shaft had to be replaced because the lobes on the shaft that drive the fuel pump worn completely through the follower and into the pump itself. Check engine light comes on constantly. Engine uses 1 quart of oil every 4,000 miles. Sun roof cover has been broken 3 times since I got the car and now is fixed with a temporary paper clip. Ugghhh!