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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  Getaway car - 2007 Audi A3
  By George - July 14 - 8:25 pm

  Purchased my A3 2.0T after much research and driving the competition. I kept coming back to the A3, and so glad I did. This little vixen grows on you. The DSG, coupled with a very flat torque curve, makes acceleration so effortless that I find myself glued to the rear view mirror. I dont think "Audi made me do it" would stand up in court. Fit and finish is incredible. The sound system is very good (I wanted premium but settled for stock, and no complaints). Ive been doing the conventional break-in (vary your speed) and still averaging 27 mpg. Overall Id have to say this is the finest car Ive ever owned. If I win the lottery, Im going for an A8, but still keeping my A3!

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  Wow - 2007 Audi A3
  By mattyd - July 12 - 5:45 pm

  I wanted a 4-door hatchback for flexibility but didnt want to compromise on performance or drive a huge wagon around. There are a lot of sedans in this price range, but the hatch and folding seats give much more utility. I settled firmly on the 2.0T after reviews and test drives, even though it lacked AWD. I drove the 3.2 solely to prevent buyers remorse and curiosity afterwards, and that was the one I had to get. Outside the trip I took to break it in, Ive put more than 2K miles on it in 3 months and that is with restraint (daily commute is <10 miles RT). It is much more fun to drive than my last car (01 Grand Prix GTP) and sometimes I drive past home and just keep going.

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  Saved My Life - 2006 Audi A3
  By Adam G. - June 26 - 3:21 pm

  My wife and I had this car for over a year and simply loved it. Had some build quality problems. The rear window had to be replaced because of noise in the radio caused by the rear defroster being on. Also had to have a relay replaced since the car would not go above 30! Aside from that drove it across country and it was great and lots and lots of fun. We just got in a serious accident in it and walked away with only minor injuries from the airbag propellant. This car might have saved our lives. It certainly let us just walk away from a bad accident. I would most definitely get another, but next time I want AWD. VERY VERY SAFE!

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  A3: Best in its class. - 2007 Audi A3
  By Audi-O - June 22 - 11:38 pm

  I drove the 3.2 All-Wheel drive but preferred the 2.0T. The 2.0T was more responsive and felt torquier down low. Impressive after coming from a VR6 GTI. I wasnt sure I could give up the MT for the DSG but after driving the car for a couple of days there was no going back to a MT for me. I drove this car back to back with a Mazdaspeed3 and with the DSG I could drive the A3 faster than the Mazda on the same course. The A3 is just too easy to drive fast with DSG. There is some road noise as others have commented on which I atribute to the tires and stiff sport suspension. The ride is very good given the handling abilities of the car. The fit and finish is first in its class.

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  Audi nailed this car! - 2007 Audi A3
  By Stimpy - June 20 - 9:05 am

  Have only had this car for a week, but I have already put it through its paces. Im impressed! It handles like it is bolted to the road. I have taken twisties at insane speeds and this car hasnt broken a sweat. Combine this competence with a basic but flawless interior, a great stereo, very good gas mileage and totally solid build quality and I just cant see what Audi couldve improved. They completely naile this one! If I ever get tired of driving this car, you best believe I will be seriously considering another Audi!

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  An "Adult" Kind Of Giddy - 2007 Audi A3
  By AudiJay - May 29 - 12:43 am

  Okay, so I just bought my new A3 3.2 AWD Quattro today after driving the Volvo S40 T5 and the Acura TL-S. The Volvo was nice, but not in the same class, and the Acura was a great car, but a bit bigger than I wanted. The Audi is an awesome car. So much fun. Some folks say that the power gain in the 3.2 isnt worth the increased price. My feeling (having driven both) is that the 3.2 provides a much more steady power (no lag) and is better suited to the AWD. I felt the same way when I chose my VW GTI VR6 over the 1.8T a few years back. Steady power from the very low RPMs. Beyond that, the build quality is great, the nav system is awesome, and Im smiling!

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  Very smooth ride - 2006 Audi A3
  By Matthew - May 23 - 4:50 am

  It has the same engine as the A4 with a smaller, lighter chassis, so it is quick. I feel NO turbo lag at all -- amazing! I got the premium, cold weather and open sky packages. Seat heaters are great and premium makes this feel like a higher end car. I dont recommend the BOSE radio - not impressive during test drive and not worth it at $900. Im an audio guy but the standard one is really about the same. Ride is quite stiff even without the sport packages tight suspension - you decide if tighter is better. Audi has a bad reliability reputation, but this model is not new -- its been around in Europe for quite a while. Overall, a very refined machine.

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  My God, this thing is FAST!!! - 2006 Audi A3
  By fitz91701 - May 22 - 11:10 pm

  I traded an 02 Kia Rio Cinco for this A3. I have DSG and Open Sky as my only options, Lava Gray Pearl on Gray Cloth. Went on road trip from LA to Sacramento (and back) and it purred the whole time. 85 on cruise control and stil got right at 30 mpg (even with the grapevine). This car is worth every penny. It is the fastest car I have ever driven and I havent seen a single other one on the road yet. The only reason I gave it a 9 on comfort is because the center cosole seems huge, and it has the impression of being "tight". I should also mention that Entry and Exit is EXCELLENT (not climbing out of the Rio or a Honda - ie. not too low to the ground). I really love this car

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  The Greatest Sleeper - 2007 Audi A3
  By Haywood - May 21 - 10:43 pm

  I traded an 04 R32 for the A3 and havent been disappointed yet. It has good performance and is fun to drive fast or slow. DSG is just great.

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  Fun little guy! - 2007 Audi A3
  By Yo mama! - May 17 - 2:17 pm

  I love this car, we dumped our Touareg off and never looked back. That thing was cursed! Our A3 is a great addition to our garage, utility, and fun at the same time. If you are over 63" I would go bigger but at 511" I fit just fine. Totally recommend this car.