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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  One of the Best Choices Under 30K - 2006 Audi A3
  By JJB - November 23 - 4:10 pm

  Ive been driving my A3 for a little over a year. The handling is amazing with the sport package. DSG is cool for lazy feet, but not for me. Bottom line: there are a lot of cars out there in this price range. More importantly, there are many above this price range. A GIAC or REVO for this car, and it will hang with the M3s and STIs of the world. However, with the A3 you also get practicality and comfort, which those cars do not have. AND, Im getting 36 MPG highway!

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  In the pocket - 2007 Audi A3
  By Jazzman - November 7 - 12:12 pm

  Tired of the stiff ride in my Crossfire, I needed a bit more room and ease of entry. Enter the A3. Just as fast with a turbo 4 banger as the XFire, and a "softer" sporty ride. Quicker than my wifes 2001 TT, the A3 can pass lifes slowpokes with ease, yet makes for a nice "everyday" ride. I can get all the nine luggage pieces of my drum set in easily with the rear seats folded down...and still have room for a friend. Great car for city, highway or the twisties when you can. A month of driving the A3 and its still love!

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  FUN TO DRIVE - 2006 Audi A3
  By sandy - November 3 - 4:01 am

  My A3 is an excellent ride. I drive 60 miles to work one way and it is all freeway. The vehicle handles and performs well. I feel safe on the road. I have averaged 32 mpg on the highway. The car is responsive and when the turbo kicks in I can easily move through traffic. The hand brake could be in a better position. The car should have a compass. Get the deluxe package and 17" wheels.

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  My A3 has arrived. - 2006 Audi A3
  By germancarFAN - October 27 - 8:53 am

  In May, I ordered a 2006 A3 2.0TFSI 6SPD M LavaGry/SportPkg/Xenon/RearSide Airbags/Cold Weather PKG/ - Since then I was constantly scanning this forum trying to assure myself I made a good choice. All was confirmed when I picked it up from the dealer today. This car is tight! Torque is strong and readily available throughout the revs. I cant wait until I break the engine in and I can let the car pull through 5000 to the redline. I love the dash at night and the Xenons truly light the way! Ordered a Set of 18" 9 Spoke S4 wheels wrapped in Pirreli P-Zero NeroM&S tire. Theyll handle the torque!

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  Very Fun Car, Worth Every Penny!!! - 2006 Audi A3
  By chicoBR - October 17 - 3:32 pm

  Since I knew for a while that I was going to drive from PA to FL – 1,180 miles – I waited to write this review. I have a 2.0T, DSG, Sport Package, 17’ wheels, and the car is AWESOME. Honestly, it could not be better! The engine is very responsive, transmission is smooth and fun to use on all three modes (Sport, Drive, and Shift Pads), interior finishing is upper class, audio system is excellent, and the exterior looks from every angle very sporty. I had never had a car with sport suspension and was afraid that I would get tired of the firm ride. When I test-drove the A3 premium package and the sport package prior to make my decision, I had no doubt that the sport package was the way to go!

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  Speeding in SF - 2007 Audi A3
  By LeahySF - October 15 - 12:46 pm

  A great car that combines function with fun. Ive had my A3 for about a month and couldnt be more happy. The 200 HP engine and DSG live up too the hype, and man, does it fly. The interior is spacious, comfortable, with a clean design. We searched most entry-level luxury sedans but the A3 was the clear winner - nothing even compared to the driving performance of the A3. You wouldnt know if from the inside, but the car has a ver small footprint, ideal for city driving and parking.

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  Little Car, No Compromise - 2007 Audi A3
  By bumpjump - September 26 - 11:22 am

  Third Audi, coming on the heels of a 2001 TT and an 03 A4. This is the Goldilocks car: not too small, not too big, just right. Our commute got shorter this year, so this is basically a city car. Shopped the 330i, the IS 350, the new A4, and the G35. Loved the A3s functionality and nimble, cut-and-thrust attitude.

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  Green Sports Car - 2006 Audi A3
  By quietstorm - September 25 - 11:50 am

  This car is awesome!! For one thing this is not a dime a dozen car. I love that not every car in the parking lot is an A3. I always get 28-30 miles to the gallon highway and almost the same in the city. What other car can zip you around town take corners fast and get good gas. I got open sky it great is makes the car feel roomier. The DSG is fun when your driving just for the hell of it. Plus you can feel you are in a well bulit car. My doors are way heavier (3 steel beams per door vs. 2) than an american counterpart.

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  Pound for pound... - 2007 Audi A3
  By allan douglas - September 17 - 9:04 am

  This is my forth Audi, through All Roads and A-4 Avants. $ for $ and pound for pound the best car Audi makes excepting for the discontinued All Road and the A-4 Cabrolet converible which is some $ 12K more expensive to equip. I can do 35-37 mpg with a wax job and no head winds, so I can barely eek out 550 miles to a 13 gallon fill before hitting reserve, but if you want to hold 80 mph on 65 mph interstates and zip past some others in the passing lane, the economy will still hold 28 to 30 mpg. While it does not have some of the useless "bells and whistles" of the A-4 cousin, its all all around functional car with plenty of storage. Suggest you buy Continental Extreme Contacts, a great all season/snow tire with smoother ride.

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  Its About Time - 2006 Audi A3
  By Mark McTigue - September 11 - 10:33 pm

  Handles great! Quick response. Great mileage. Need more cars of this caliber. Got rid of my SUV. Audi should offer more engine option for this car as they do in Europe.