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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  Purchased after Test Drive - 2006 Audi A3
  By TJ - June 22 - 10:50 pm

  Faster than the A4. Less expensive than the BMW. Automatic DSG shifts like a dream.

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  2006 Audi A3 2.0T - 2006 Audi A3
  By Sportback - June 21 - 10:23 pm

  The Audi A3 combines all of the fun-to-drive characteristics of the Audi TT and the VW Golf GTI (with which it shares a platform), with an elegant design and a real backseat that adults can use.

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  Joses review - 2008 Audi A3
  By Jose - February 17 - 11:08 am

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  Love this car - 2006 Audi A3
  By lyders - February 10 - 11:13 am

  After owning two minivans in a row we were somewhat concerned about the smaller size of the Audi. The fun factor more then makes up for any size issues. We find outselves looking for reasons to go places. This car is a blast to drive. Mileage after 1200 miles on the odometer is averaging about 28-30 mpg. Fit and finish is great, performance is outstanding. All in all a very impressive car at this point.

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  Fantastic! - 2016 Audi A3
  By Carolyn - January 17 - 8:19 pm

  This car is classy and so much fun to drive. The A3 is for someone who wants luxury and affordability.

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  Awesome - 2006 Audi A3
  By khan29 - December 2 - 4:33 am

  This car is awesome!!! Fun to drive, fast and plenty of room in back seats for adults. We had two child seats and very easy to get children in and out.

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  Great things come in small packages! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Bruce Market - August 7 - 10:13 am

  One part German luxury car, one part German sports car, one part family haulerwith loads of Euro panache! The DSG sets this car apart from all others. It works beautifully. On a recent drive across the state on a two- lane road where speeds of 55-60 are common, 33 mpg was the average. A very comfortable road car with loads of performance on tap.

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  (Red) Hot To Trot - 2006 Audi A3
  By Richard Cooper - August 2 - 4:53 am

  Just traded in my very yellow Mazdaspeed Protege for a base A-3. After a week I am pretty impressed with the cars performance and refinement. The car feels much quicker than the Mazda and vastly improved driveability. It is a little more like a wagon than a hot hatchback. I would probably wait for the VW GTI if I were more patient. Would have preferred the sport package +Bose radio but I couldnt seem to find one equipped that way without buying the Skyroof. The base radio and interior are OK but not as sporty unique as the Mazdaspeed Protege. The dealer was fairly uninformed about MP3, Satellite Radio and this new model in general. Still for $25K, a great buy!

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  Love my Audi! - 2016 Audi A3
  By Talayna Marco - July 27 - 7:41 pm

  I absolutely love the way my new car hugs the road when I drive. It drives like a dream! The stereo is great too, I can hear it perfectly clear with the top down!

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  Audi A3 is my favorite car I ever had! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Barbra - June 5 - 12:36 pm

  Its such a cool car. Less trips to the gas station is a big plus and its got room for two kids, a stroller and a trip to the grocery store! Audi has found the answer to needing a mom car but still wanting something fun and awesome to drive. Thanks Audi!