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 year later, still going strong - 2006 Audi A3
  By Michael - July 8 - 11:57 am

  I did an Edmunds review on this car, a year ago when I bought it, and I am still very happy. It is reliable, fast, very useful due to its hatch and folding seats and very comfortable and fun to drive. I added 245 size tires which give the car better traction and handling, but do scrape a little at the back, but well worth it. Currently my mileage is 7700 miles (hard driving), and the car was bought in CA, USA. I still think the car is an excellent buy, but time will tell.

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  like driving a humming bird - 2006 Audi A3
  By jerbco - July 5 - 7:07 pm

  I havent found a single design flaw on this car. Everything is perfect. Quality is typical Audi (i.e., very good) but the dash has a somewhat plasticky look (a different rubberized surface would have a nicer look, I think). Also, Im not a big fan of the aluminum trim on the sport model. That said, this car is an amazing drive. Powerful, fast, almost no turbo lag. No one has outmuscled it on the freeway yet.

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  All Fun All the Time - 2006 Audi A3
  By Calabama - July 2 - 1:28 pm

  The A3 is great fun to drive. The 2.0 turbo engine is fantastic. More fun than my old supercharged Mercedes. Ive always liked to do my own shifting and have had manual transmissions. When I drove the DRG automatic I was won over. I cant imagine going back after after driving this quick smooth automatic, or electronic manual as Audi refers to it. I havent had any problems with my Audi. Its always a joy to get in and drive.

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  Weeeehooooooo!!! - 2006 Audi A3
  By stevesd - June 28 - 11:25 pm

  Nothing compares to my A3! What a personality it has!!! Its sexy looking, quick and heaps of fun to drive. There are not many on the road and people constantly stop and ask about the car... WARNING: Watch the pedal because you will be doing 85pmh and not even realize it... :)

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  Great Car! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Paul - June 26 - 5:14 pm

  I was looking for a car good for a small family, 25+mpg, and fun to drive. The A3 is a perfect fit. Ive only had it for 250 miles but completely love it so far. It was tough to get the exact one I wanted and had to include XM radio. This is my first Audi and was nervous about going non-Japanese, but it felt so great to drive. MPGs are not quite what they say. I have the black leather interior and everyone comments on how great it looks. Also seen comments about the sunroof letting light in when closed but the glass is really tinted so I havent noticed much heating effect. I think the ventilation system is also really great and intuitive vs other cars.

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  Audi All the Way!! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Zodiac3 - June 25 - 2:22 am

  Researched the car for over a year and finally test drove an A3 among other brands: BMW, Volvo, and Acura. A3 won me over mainly for its fuel economy and the performance - TURBO. A very capable "sportswagon". Most of my friends couldnt believe how well handled the car is on the road - mine comes with the sports option. The AudiConcert sound system is quite good. I cant wait to take this car along the Coastal Hi-Way in Calif. Nice work, Audi!

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  All-Time Favorite - 2006 Audi A3
  By Ebling - June 10 - 11:28 am

  A terrific vehicle overall. Fast, fun, with practical features. Beautiful interior and exterior design elements. 2.0T engine a drivers delight. Audi Concert audio very capable. Ride, handling, comfort, and thoughtful touches allow all-day comfort and fun in the twisties. This car makes me smile during and after every drive. Premium and Cold Weather pkgs. nice. "Sportswagon" more apt than "hatchback." The A3 "concept" and execution is dead-on. Im 6 and OK in the back seat without Open Sky. Solid feel. Looks small, but really isnt. I love this car. The center arm rest can interfere with the hand brake, but its no big deal. Options can add-up to 30+k. Form follows function.

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  FUN!! - 2006 Audi A3
  By billsyn - June 1 - 8:50 pm

  What a dandy little car. 2.0L with DSG tranny makes for a potent powerplant in this sports wagon(?). Much versatility, fuel efficient, comfortable, agile... just a blast to drive. Get one, if it has enough room for how you intend to use it.

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  An overlooked vehicle - 2006 Audi A3
  By Blake - May 30 - 2:58 pm

  Having owned an A4 1.8T previously, Ive had first hand experience with the Audi product. The 2.0T is a huge improvement over the already great 1.8T and the DSG transmission is a blast to drive. The tight handling and fun to drive factor have made me forget about many of the luxury items I became used to in the A4, including Quattro. My A3 is the best car Ive ever owned.

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  My first car ... - 2006 Audi A3
  By Kiran - May 28 - 7:43 pm

  Its my first new car. Premier package with Opensky. I am driving a car again after two and half years break and am still getting used to it. Mileage is as expected. Acceleration and handling feel great but sometimes it doesnt seem to respond as well to gas pedal. I dont know if it is my driving. The front sunshade latch on the Opensky broke after 5-6 times of use. The dealership admitted that they have been getting lot of complaints about that latch. The screws attached to the net/hook in the cargo area are really loose. I also occasionally hear some rattles from behind. It is the first production apparently. Otherwise, the storage space seems to justify why I preferred this to A4 sedan.