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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  Refinement and Invigoration in One - 2008 Audi A3
  By JW - March 8 - 10:04 pm

  Just purchased my A3, and after driving about town a bit now, I can say with certainty that this is a unique ride. Just like BMWs seem to combine refinement with performance, this car does the same, with a bit more raw feeling, less cush. If you are even thinking about a BMW, or one of the many alternative, do not let the A3 slip your list, this car is great! Its like play toy that has all the creature comforts you could want.

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  Best and only small luxury hatchback - 2006 Audi A3
  By Ralph - March 8 - 1:06 am

  Great fuel economy, a huge upgrade in performance from last years A4 base models. An automatic transmission that has better performance than manual and better fuel economy. Thats quite a feat. Interior build is excellent. Great value too, no disadvantage vs. the A4 in space.

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  Not worth the money - 2008 Audi A3
  By Mike - March 1 - 7:07 am

  Needed a hatchback for our big dog. At least got that goal accomplished. Other than that: short gear ratios (2,500 rpm at 60mph) ruin the gas mileage. No fun at all on highway / interstate. What is the point putting the GTI gearbox (built for 16 year olds) in an Audi? Same audience? Car seems to have some kind of slope sensor. Transmission doesnt shift up when going up hill. Car runs uphill at 3,000 rpm and need shift manually i.o. to save gas. DSG transmission is nice but hypersensitive. Its a roller coaster ride when car is cold. A/C has a mind of its own and takes a scientist to operate. Blower keeps changing speed. No homelink. No self-contained sun visor upgrade available.

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  Sweet car for the price! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Mumma - February 16 - 9:26 pm

  I was looking for an everyday fun car to drive to and from work. There was an auto show in town and I spotted the Audi A3. It looked small and standing 62", I fit very well into the car. The next day I stopped at the dealership and bought an 2006 A3 Manual. I have about 100 miles on the car and I love it! I love speed, handling, and no turbo lag. I have the performance package and the seats are great, the hold you in the seat. All in all a great little car for about 30K

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  Quattro for life - 2008 Audi A3
  By Quattro rocks. - February 4 - 10:42 pm

  Bullet fast. Sticks to the road like glue. Modern interior design. Awesome sound system. Torque and horsepower to spare. Quattro all wheel drive. This car is worth every penny, and is truly a drivers car. The A3 3.2 is a total blast to drive. Spent the better part of 1 year comparing the A3 3.2 Quattro to the IS 250 AWD, Infiniti G35, Acura TL, and the BMW 325xi. The Audi is the thinking mans BMW, whatever that means. Gas mileage not all that great, but nobody buys a 250 hp v6 for the gas mileage... you buy it for the big grin it puts on your face when you hammer the throttle. I love this car, go buy one now!

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  Move over Fun, here is the A3 - 2006 Audi A3
  By MuranoA3 - January 31 - 6:50 am

  After owning two VW GTIs, a VR6 and 1.8T i decided to jump up to the next level and get an A3. The 2.0T is amazing, more interior room and feel than the larger A4 without the added weight. The DSG is absolutely amazing and i am a huge manual tranny guy. Sitting in traffic in "D" and having the use of the paddles is so fun. Audi did an awesome job with the steering and feel of the A3, plus put versatility and economy in the same package. Torque and power delivery of the 2.0T is never-ending with no drop off in power until after 6500rpms. I mean 207lb/ft for 3000rpms YES PLEASE. Audi did a great job with this car and the sales numbers are proving it.

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  Buy this car now. - 2008 Audi A3
  By Quattro for life. - January 27 - 2:43 am

  Great car. Drivers car. Not floaty like IS 250 or G35. Very responsive, fast, engine has a very nice growl to it. Quattro is unmatched, do the research. 3.2 liter engine + Quattro = 0-60 in 5.9 at least. Tons of great standard options such as autodimming mirrors, bose upgraded audio system, rain sensing wipers. I love this car.

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  Driving experience - 2006 Audi A3
  By frank - January 15 - 2:11 pm

  Really fun to drive, excellent comfort and the sound of the powertrain is pleasing.

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  Nice but UGLY - 2006 Audi A3
  By Me - January 10 - 4:00 pm

  I test drove the new A3. It was very responsive and quick. No noticeable turbo lag which is common in most turbo cars. The interior was well designed but it is an ugly car on the outside. It looks like an oversized VW GTI. If they kept it the same size as the GTI it wouldnt be as ugly. It shouldve been aborted in the design stage.

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  Just bought this car and its a blast! - 2008 Audi A3
  By John and Janette - December 26 - 3:54 pm

  We came on the lot looking for an A4 and drove off with this one instead. The baseline A3 is pretty boring, but the S-Line is amazing! The Blue Sky package makes this car look very unique. Also got Sirius radio with the Bose audio package. The sound couldnt be any more clear. Well follow-up if anything bad happens, but so far so awesome! If you go to Audi of Tysons Corner, make sure you ask for Ron! Very cool guy and extremely low intensity.