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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  Audi A3 DSG - 2006 Audi A3
  By alan - February 24 - 7:24 pm

  I planned to buy this car and I test drove it, its the best transmission I ever experience, no matter up-shift or down-shift, its so smooth and I think I will make the right choice. Engine response is very good, I drove 2 turbos before and this one is a new experience since I dont need to use gas pedal and clutch to minimize the turbo lags. Thanks to DSG, and its only offer in A3s or TTs, dont get the manual, get DSG, its the best tranny so far in the market! (and its easily to get the engine improve to 250 horses and matching the V6 power - except the quattro unless you think its a must!)

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  Was Skeptical but now a Fan - 2006 Audi A3
  By Bob - February 22 - 1:53 pm

  Wanted to get rid of my SUV while I still could. Heard about A3, drove it and its quite a car. Try going out on the highway and letting it fly - no other experience like it.

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  Excellent Sporty Choice - 2006 Audi A3
  By TazerVP - February 22 - 12:17 pm

  If youre looking at the Volkswagen or the WRX, take a look at the Audi. The DSG is a blast to drive, with the paddle shifting responding quickly. Comfort is sweet in the front, almost like sitting on cardboard boxes in the back, not good.

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  Great Fun, But Mileage Claims? - 2006 Audi A3
  By bowfng - February 22 - 2:28 am

  I just got a new manual transmission A3 2.0T with premium package, open sky and bose/NAV system. Lots of fun to drive and nice power. However those mileage claims 24/32 mpg seem awfully fishy. Just did my second fill up and I barely squeaked out 17.5 mpg in city driving. What gives?

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  A3 3.2 - 2006 Audi A3
  By JamesM - February 21 - 12:47 pm

  Performance is excellent from the high torque V6 and efficient DSG transmission. The DSG and drive by wire programming require a small amount of technique adjustment for smooth take off. This seems to have improved considerably over a few miles of use and may be driver as well as auto break in. The handling and braking are also excellent. The ride is a bit stiff with the sport suspension but has also improved with just a few miles. It is definitely a better compromise for us over the floaty ride of our previous vehicle. We placed a high priority on AWD which is only available in the 3.2.

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  You have to get one of these. - 2006 Audi A3
  By 0cean - February 21 - 5:29 am

  I would not trade my A3 for anything but another A3. I am sold. The car is perfect. Performance is great! 200 HP is plenty of power to get around traffic. And if you need a little more, chip it to get 250-260 HP. The interior is smartly designed and very clean. Standard leather is what really sets the interior from other cars. A little touch of class and sportiness. There is nothing wrong with this well built car.

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  Audi A3 auto - 2006 Audi A3
  By retfalvi - February 19 - 10:35 pm

  I ended up buying this car based on a testdrive of another A3. Be careful, My actual car had chronic hesitation with ignition, and even with the software update was rather sluggish. Would buy this car again, if I had the option to testdrive the actual car offered. Remember your trade-in value with this car is less than you would expect at any time.

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  Love Mine - 2006 Audi A3
  By KBh9183 - February 17 - 4:27 pm

  it was great from the start! maybe i am biased, but i think my audi is faster than most cars i meet on the road. the best part of the acceleration is when i am going about 60 and i need to pop around someone quickly. man, she has some pickup. the interior is stylish and roomy, considering the size of this car. the rear view mirror even has an automatic dimmer to keep headlights from behind out of my eyes. handles like a dream. i will continue to drive this car for quite a while, at least until i settle down with a family. then i intend to get an A8. i will always own an audi. no other car will do.

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  Wonderful addition to your garage - 2006 Audi A3
  By Matt - February 12 - 11:51 am

  I had always owned Japanese cars but when I test drove the A3, I was purely amazed. This car drives like a dream -- stable, sporty, responsive -- but also quiet and luxurious. Sure, lots of parts are clearly shared with a VW counterpart, but this car has a feeling of luxury that not even a Passat can touch.

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  Audis TSX - 2006 Audi A3
  By A3owner - January 20 - 12:26 pm

  Feels a lot like "luxury" Golf, and that is a very good thing! A3 may not perform as well as as the VW Golf, but its just as fun to drive. This is one of those cars where you can take it work on a weekday, and race it on the weekends!