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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  Love the A3! - 2008 Audi A3
  By BobJ - November 15 - 8:27 am

  This is my 7th Audi including A4s and a TT. I love this car! The 2.0 engine is a tremendous improvement over the old 1.8. The A3 is quick, has great handling, is nicely appointed and is a kick to drive. New car pricing is a bit hefty, but I bought mine at the end of the year and saved a lot. In 08, if you wanted AWD you had to buy the 3.2L engine, and the price got pretty high. I understand that they are working on the pricing issue for 09. My wife has an Acura MDX, but now shes borrowing the A3 whenever she can grab it.

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  audi-standing - 2006 Audi A3
  By dannylv - November 13 - 3:16 pm

  I have owned my A3 for 3 weeks and I am more and more convinced every time I drive this car on what an amazing vehicle it is. Even though I really liked the stock rims, I have changed them out for light-weight 17” enkei performance racing rims and have plans to replace the stock springs with neuspeed sport springs and using the neuspeed engine management upgrade increasing HP to 250+ and torque ft/lb to 295+. The 6-speed manual is as controlled or aggressive as you need it to be. A3 is truly a wolf in sheep’s clothing. bad placement of center console w/ 6-speed but folds up out of the way if needed.

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  This is one bad little car - 2008 Audi A3
  By puroman - October 31 - 10:42 pm

  First road trip with the car using sport shifting with the dsg and was completely gobsmacked by the performance of this car. Goes like stink, handles the curves like its nobodys business and that transmisssion is without a doubt the best in the world and worth the extra cash. Throw the back seats down, throw the dog in, and off you go. Lots of room for two with luggage and thats all you need. Gas mileage is superb for a car with this performance. Too bad is has to be high test but you cant get everything. Ipod setup is easy but info on instrument panel could be a little more informational and clearer. But just go drive (faster if possible) you will love this car

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  Great Improvements Made for 2009 - 2009 Audi A3
  By JPDX - October 15 - 5:10 pm

  Weve had our A3 for about 3 weeks and love it. We custom ordered it in June. The car is similar to previous 2008 models except almost all the suggestions from previous years have been implemented. It now has modern interior materials/buttons, sporty front end like the A4. Mirror turn signals, and AUX input for the iPod, nicer computer in dash etc. The stereo also plays MP3 discs. Ours has bluetooth as well which is now part of the S-line pkg. For those thinking of getting a GTI, please drive the A3 too. It is not that much more money but is a much better car. There are also a couple of new colors which some people might prefer.

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  WOW - 2006 Audi A3
  By mazzy - October 7 - 8:20 pm

  Quicker and more fun do drive than by Audi allroad! Love it in the city as it is easier to park. The best sound system I ever heard in a car.

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  Excellent, Fun Car for the Money! - 2008 Audi A3
  By ASM - September 5 - 2:20 pm

  This is a great car, and I have had plenty to compare it to. I also own a Prius, which I kept, but I wanted a "fun" car, and I got that. I know everyone raves about the automatic, but frankly I love the stick shift. It is very responsive, and once you get use to the great distance the clutch goes in (I am only 54") shifting is very smooth! I have an hour drive to and from work everyday, and this has made it a pleasure!

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  The Ultimate Drive! - 2006 Audi A3
  By John - September 3 - 7:20 am

  I just picked up my new Audi A3 this week and I absolutely love it. I test drove many cars from 25k-35k looking for one that was actually fun to drive. The Sport package is well worth the cash. This baby hugs corners with ease. The OpenSky roof is great and opens the cabin up to the outside. Interior room is much better then that of the A4, due to the transversely mounted 2.0 T engine. With options my car came to $31850. Not bad for an car that it! The new DSD Auto is so smooth and is perfectly mated to the 2.0T engine. There is no torque steer present at any speed. The A3 is so much fun to drive. Do yourself a favor and go test drive one today!

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  Fun! - 2007 Audi A3
  By G Popenoe - September 1 - 12:19 am

  It has been very reliable. There are none of the squeaks or rattles identified in other reviews. It brakes confidently. Steering is wonderful and acceleration makes it plenty quick without being stupid fast. What the reviews dont tell you is that this is the ultimate city car. Compact, practical, quick and stylish. Yet it will pour itself done a twisty back road with verve. Its only weakness is touring on US freeways. For that you need something heavier with a longer wheel base. But since 90% of my driving is in the city, I couldnt be happier with my choice. Beware of the clutch take up on the DSG transmission. It is set agressively.

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  Never Again - 2006 Audi A3
  By DavidK45 - August 28 - 12:26 am

  The 2.0 liter turbo jerks a lot and gas mileage is average. Rides great on the highway but too "loose" in the city. I have had several problems with my car and am just glad it is under warranty (though a new battery is not covered). My battery completely died after two years. The clip for the sunshade on the Open Sky system broke (as is common) and was replaced by a non-matching black clip (interior is grey). At 21,500 miles, my manual transmission broke where 1st gear and reverse did not work. My car is currently in the shop (over one week now) and Audi is going to replace the transmission since they are afraid the problem could spread to the other gears if they rebuild it.

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  Sports Car plus - 2008 Audi A3
  By philsoc8 - August 3 - 8:50 pm

  I wanted a sports coupe, but couldnt live without a backseat and some cargo space. The A3 completely fits the bill. Great engine amazing transmission handles like its on rails. Small size makes it tossable and zoom with an efficient engine, but the A3s real secret weapon is the practical space. Audi doesnt want you to know this, but the back seat in the A3 is bigger than that in the A4. My kids love it! True, it is not a bargain, if you price things on a per-inch basis, but if you value things because of how good they are, not just how big, you will love this car.