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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  Feel of luxury for a great price - 2006 Audi A3
  By Marcie - May 28 - 2:08 am

  Never thought I would own a brand new Audi, but from the minute I saw this car I new I had to have it! The price with some luxury options was reasonable considering the happiness I feel driving it. The paddles are fun, the seats are comfy, the open sky is beautiful and it is so peppy..getting by the trucks on the highway is a breeze. Had some minor problem with the keys bu the dealer to care of it. Have 15000 miles on it already and the car is running beautifully. Best bet for an entry luxury car...has the look of its higher priced brothers and sisters and a top notch engine and interior design.

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  Fast, but Open-Sky is cheap quality - 2006 Audi A3
  By DKAM - May 24 - 2:42 pm

  Initially happy with the power and interior quality. A little turbo lag, especially in 1st gear. Quattro should be available with the manual transmission. I had to go for front-wheel drive to get M.T. which feels inferior to rear-drive cars like 325ci. Car is fast and nimble, but nowhere near that of the 3-series (2003 for comparison). The interior sunshade for Open-Sky system is cheap looking and feeling. The latches are breaking (common problem). This is an Audi luxury brand car and should not have such cheap parts. The rest of the interior is of good quality and presentation, though.

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  Stylish and peppy car that stands out! - 2006 Audi A3
  By CET - May 20 - 6:29 am

  My requirements for a car are always can I fit my 3 dogs? Is it AWD? Is it comfortable on long trips (I pack about 30,000 miles a year on a car....) Does the sound system actually SOUND GOOD? Finally IS IT FAST AND FUN TO DRIVE... The answer to all these are YES! If you need a car that can haul stuff, is sporty, and quick while safe in snow this baby is it! If you have a heavy foot gas mileage wont be as good as you think but MUCH better than my previous SUV. This car allowed me to be practical yet maintain my need for fun, speed, cool gadgets and nice rims all wrapped up neatly in AWD so I can get around on the back roads of NY in the winter.

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  Looks like a Wagon, but.... - 2006 Audi A3
  By Vicki - May 10 - 3:14 pm

  I wasnt so sure about this car, but my fiance insisted that it is/was the best value on the road. We test drove it in Washington DC and bought it in Honolulu, HI. This car is incredible. Its fun to drive, has a definite wow factor, roomy, etc. We havent had anything go wrong, but I have been tough on the wheels! I take corners fast and I love the feel of the car as it pulls through every turn. I have surprised numerous drivers on the road since many assume this car is just a wagon, but once I hit the gas petal, the A3 accelerates past pretty much anything out there.

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  Best car I have owned! - 2006 Audi A3
  By MichaelL - May 7 - 10:47 pm

  I have always wanted to own an Audi and now I know why! This is truly a great car - comfortable, reliable and fun to drive. Living on an island I cannot enjoy it to the max, but still appreciate everything about it. A few weeks ago, the cars brakes and handling saved my life - another car turned directly in front of me, I hit the brakes (no locking) and once I had slowed down, I touched the steering wheel to the right and got around the other vehicle - if I were in most other cars, I probably would not be writing this now!

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  Solid - 2006 Audi A3
  By dkimgonet - May 1 - 6:35 pm

  Coming down from driving 96 A6, this car gives me so much joy and fun for daily commute of 30 miles on busy freeway 10 in LA. I had such a fun driving A6 qattro for 5 years especially when I was in NY but this little brother is suprisingly solid for the price I paid for. I am sure its not a very difficult choice for most of folks who test drive this car to agree with me about this car but driving longer period of time just confirmed my decision further more. Drive it and enjoy your life and be a happy driver with this solid A3

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  Test drove it then..... - 2006 Audi A3
  By aw - April 29 - 10:02 pm

  had to have it!! I bought the last one on the lot, a red base 2.0 with a six speed m.t. This car is a blast....has a bottomless well of torque and a (very subjective) perfect balance between ride and handling. Transmission is positive and quick. The motor is a gem - NO turbo lag and just a sly hint of that distinctive suck/whine that blown engines have. I love this thing.

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  Very Sweet Ride!!! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Chef - April 28 - 4:13 pm

  I drove a lot of cars, some much more expensive, before buying the A3 and I couldnt be happier. The build quality, ride, handling, and power development in this car is excellent, especially at the price paid. The technology with the FSI engine is class-leading which includes a factory front mounted intercooler and forged engine components that should last a long time. The fuel mileage started off only fair at a mixed 20mpg, but over the first 3k miles improved to 25mpg. I attribute the slightly lower mileage to my heavy foot and the cars speed inspiring exhaust notes. An ECU chip brings this engine to max performance with 240+hp & 275+torque, a true monster!

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  My best car ever - 2006 Audi A3
  By Edwin - April 21 - 5:48 pm

  Fun to drive specially on my everyday route going to work, its a long very winding road. Great performance for a small car. It looks very deceiving because its a small car anf a station wagon look. But man.... they are wrong to pick this car for a race. This car has a lot of power on it.

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  2 Thumbs up from a car guy - 2006 Audi A3
  By ken43319 - April 21 - 9:54 am

  I am an automotive engineer with a large transplant company from Japan...this was my 1st German car. I am very impressed! Interior/exterior fit/finish is Japanese quality, material quality is tops, handling is extremely good (I got the sport suspension-a little harsh, excuse me, good road input, but thats the way car guys like it!), acceleration is a blast! On 2 lane back roads, down shift, tag the gas and youre by grandma and the semi in a wink of the eye! No turbo lag and terrific fuel economy. Who could ask for anything more? Well, my guests said they could use more rear seat leg room-I think Ill leave them at home next time. This is not your wifes soccer wagon!