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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  love this car - 2006 Audi A3
  By pablo - January 6 - 11:50 am

  Ive driven quite a few high-end cars and this is my favorite. This car brings together the styling and quality of a luxury vehicle with the fun factor of a sports car. If youre in the market for a new car, you must test-drive the A3.

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  Great Performance, Luxury for the dough! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Andy and Marcia - December 26 - 7:23 pm

  We bought our car after seeing one in a shopping mall. Took a test drive, loved it bought one blue, opensky, dsg, premium pkg for 31 k ... car is worth every dime. It drives like a dream , and is a blast to drive around town. We are both 6-0 and we have room in front even with folks in the back. We have owned an Avalon, Caravan, Blazer over the years and this is our first Audi. It may be entry level but it has a ton of bang for the buck !! Im telling all my 50 something pals about this car!! BMW and Mercedes watch out as this car blows you guys away. It is more fun to drive in a lot of ways than my 1973 Jensen Healey.

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  New A3 DSG owner in Austin - 2006 Audi A3
  By Kev in Austin - December 12 - 4:56 pm

  Just purchased an 06 A3 DSG with Sport, Bose, Xenons, Open Sky. Initial thoughts (<1 week) very good. Worried Id pay too much for too little car. Not so-its a BARGAIN. Great power, smooth engine. Very solid/quiet on the highway (~80). Suspension is definitely sport oriented and is slightly busier than I expected. Not harsh, but you do feel minor road imperfections. Handling excellent, very little body roll. Steering effort nice and firm - perhaps too artifically so at speed and too light at low speeds. Nitpicking. Engine sounds slightly dieselish at idle. Exhaust "blats" during upshifts, some may deem annoying. Seats are fantastic with the sport package (Im 61", 215lbs). Quality car.

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  2006 Moro Blue A3 sport/dsg - 2006 Audi A3
  By acorin88 - September 10 - 10:16 pm

  Purchased this car after having a great ownership experience with a 2000 VW Jetta 1.8T. The A3 exceeds the Jetta in every respect, driving dynamics, fuel economy, road noise, safety, and ergonomics. I love the exterior styling - it seems aggressive and refined at the same time to me. The interior is also wonderful, with the added aluminum (including alloy dsg paddles) and contrasting stiching on the sport seats being nice touches. Only gripes after 5 days with the car are visibility behind the driver is a little constrained and I wish the sport package came with power front seats, though the manual seats in the A3 are great improvements from my jetta. This car is blast to drive!

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  2015 Audi A3 - 2015 Audi A3
  By Frania23 - August 11 - 3:34 am

  It was a 2015 leftover with 40 miles when I purchased it in June of 2016. Ive had the car for only 1 month but really love it. I am 50 and this is my mid-life crisis car and am really enjoying the drive. I transitioned from a soccer mom highlander driver (which is a great vehicle), to empty nester Audi A3 driver. Enjoying the ride!

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  Quality made in germany - 2015 Audi A3
  By Marc - August 8 - 4:16 am

  Nice car with excellent quality and low gas consumption.

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  Style & Vale - 2015 Audi A3
  By Kbergh - August 3 - 5:22 pm

  Great engineering, great gas mileage, great value stylish design.

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  More fun than the A4 or TL - 2006 Audi A3
  By Bill - July 22 - 8:46 pm

  I didnt start out looking at this car. I had narrowed it down to the A4, Acura TL, or Volvo S40 T5. However after test driving it it was by far the most fun to drive of the group. Also, considering I was buying an auto so the wife could drive on occasions, that awesome DSG tranny made a huge difference. Take it from me I never thought Id be yapping about a transmission but it changes the performance substantially. Styling wise I prefer a sedan, but this has a cool look. Ive had my people comment on the cars good looks, which may be cause its a new design. Either way it represnts well, and it functional as all get out. Faster, More Fun, Less Money- It Rocks!

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  Auf Wiedersehen Boxster -Guten Tag A3 - 2006 Audi A3
  By RT in the Big D - July 13 - 7:06 am

  I am a Porsche guy...I have owned them since college and I love driving and caring for them. I love the style, handling and especially the performance. Recently I had three in my garage, but the times...they are a changing and I need to simplify my life, so something had to give. I bid farewell to my 944T and now to the Boxster. I went looking for a car that is FUN, FAST, practical, FAST, handles great.. looks good.. and did I mention FUN and FAST? My search lead me to the A3 and it was as if Audi designed this car just for me. Incredible good looks, great powertrain and that DSG... how sweet. Audi continues to build cars that are targeted to the enthusiast driver, buy this car, youll love it!

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  Great but Place of CD poor - 2016 Audi A3
  By richard stevens - May 22 - 3:57 am

  CD should be like the A5. Putting it inside the glove compartment is poor. The blind or land change light is excellent !!!! The change to your songs is poor. This too should be put in your glove compartment not in the instrument next to your hand. That part should be open to keys etc. My A5 was far better !!!