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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  Fun to drive but glad I leased it - 2006 Audi A3
  By SteveK - August 19 - 1:52 pm

  Ive had this car 9 months and have put over 10k miles on. A lot of fun to drive, and good looking, too. But Im glad I didnt buy it. Its chock full of little annoyances. Sticky turn signal, huge gap between 4th and 3rd gears on downshift, sunroof with a mind of its own, bits and pieces constantly loosening or falling off, too easy to knock gear shift out of manual when upshifting, to name a few. And its a rattle-trap. Very good mileage considering the turbo engine, though.

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  Couldnt ask for anything more - 2006 Audi A3
  By Michael - August 15 - 6:56 pm

  Being that my father used to work at the Audi plant in Stuttgart many, many years ago, I know of the German reputation for building quality cars. I have not been disappointed. The single most thing that stands out for me is the performance. I have been thrown back into my seat on several occassions when stepping on the gas. The interior is impeccable along with the skyroof and especially the onboard computer. I no longer have to use a calculator to figure out my gas mileage. The comfort and functionality of the seats are first rate. My last four cars were all Ford models. This is my first Audi. If the A3 is any indication, this definitely wont be the last

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  Fun drive - 2006 Audi A3
  By Rick - August 13 - 3:39 am

  Car is fun to drive. The turbo engine needs a slight more power, nothing a chip upgrade wont fix. Front wheels due seem to spin a bit, but after some driving time you learn how to minimize the spin.

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  Mature and Sporty - 2006 Audi A3
  By Pete - August 8 - 6:46 am

  I chose the A3 because I was looking for a car that was mature (not a boy toy), functional (can I fit a large screen TV ?), and sporty (fun to drive). The A3 is a perfect match. The DSG is fantastic - but took some getting used to as I would tend to forget I was in manual mode. My only regret was not getting the Sport model, because the suspension is a little softer than what I am used to, but then the ride is more luxurious as well, and I did ask for a mature ride. Im getting about 22 MPG in mixed driving, but think Id do better if I quit playing with the paddles. At first I didnt think Id want the Open Sky roof, but now I am very happy I got it.

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  Flawless - 2006 Audi A3
  By heyoka - August 6 - 9:46 am

  Most fun you can have in a car that has comfortable seating and decent luggage room with excellent fuel economy for the level of performance. DSG is the best transmission, manual or automatic, on a mass-produced car, and FSI is the most advanced readily available non-hybrid engine.

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  A3 2.0 Turbo After 10,000 miles - 2006 Audi A3
  By Dallas - August 3 - 6:41 am

  I bought this car last October after gas hit $3/gal (the first time) and after test driving the others. I have owned many luxury and sporty cars over the years from the BMW 7 and Mercedes S sedans to the BMW M3. I have to say that this car is a perfect blend of fun, function and economy. The DSG transmission is fantastic, the hatchback with fold-down seats plenty roomy, and the gas mileage (~28 mpg) is great for todays environment. We just turned over 10K miles and have had no problems with the car at all! My only complaint is the Pirelli tires -- too much road noise. I plan to own this car for a long time! Congratulations to Audi.

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  agility and speed - 2006 Audi A3
  By Jason - July 26 - 8:13 pm

  Overall an exciting car to drive. Im able to navigate busy DC with little problem, and the DSG TRANNY IS KICKIN. The only complaint I have is the driver seat seems to be losing its support. Seats started out firm, but now they are uncomfortable. Limited thigh support for my 61" frame. Sunroof is a blast. Wanted all-wheel, but didnt want the 6 cylinder. Overall a kickin car to drive.

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  Great car to own and drive. - 2006 Audi A3
  By Marsha in Texas - July 21 - 12:36 am

  I have nearly 5000 miles in three months and the driving has been great. I have the Sport package and love the aluminum trim. The car has a quality feel and the engine is great. It is easy to zip up to 80 miles an hour without realizing it. Highway mileage is 27-32 which is a plus. I have the navigation system with Bose stereo - fabulous. I am glad I bought this car and plan to enjoy it for many years. It is a fun car to drive.

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  all of these reviews are dead on - 2006 Audi A3
  By Pisha - July 19 - 1:13 am

  Its incredibly fun to drive. Fast, fast, fast. And agile! I wouldnt bother with a MT b/c the DSG lives up to the hype - definitely get it without the sport package because the paddles are a blast. The 2.0 is doing 80 before you realize, so the 3.2 must be incredible. When you fold down the back seats there is plenty of room. Definitely test before considering any comparable vehicles.

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  Lovin It! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Chuck - July 14 - 7:24 am

  Were a growing family, had to find a car to replace my old 2 seat Honda del Sol SI. Were a Honda family, and I had my heart set on an 06 Civic SI. But I just couldnt get excited about it after driving. Drove 8 cars back-to- back-- Honda, Volvo, Mercedes, Lexus, Acura, even a Prius, and in the $30k range, the A3 was BY FAR the most spirited drive out there. Its a German car and has its quirks, but for a $5k premium over the Civic SI (with options), this is a *lot* more vehicle. Not too many of them on the road either, and it definitely gets attention. White exterior with Black Open sky roof / Black interior gives a sharp contrast aka some of the Minis....