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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  This car is a race horse! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Dino - May 15 - 11:13 am

  I have had my 3.2 quattro for a week now and I love it! Just about every option is standard on to 3.2. Well worth the extra money for the V6 quattro. Fun to drive, handles like a dream in the corners. Adaptive bi- xenon lights turn with your steering wheel, how cool is that? Red backlit gauges, looks sweet at night. After owning a 2001 Lexus IS300, the Audi A3 wins hands down all the way. This car has tons of features and is definitely a keeper.

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  Dollar for dollar unbeatable for now. - 2006 Audi A3
  By Michael - April 30 - 11:23 am

  From the first moment I test drove this car, I was sold. Since the day I purchased it I cannot say enough about it. It just takes every important aspect of today’s cars, and combines them together, and then tops it off with exciting new features. Audi got it right, excellent job guys!

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  What A Car! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Andy - April 30 - 8:33 am

  Test drove this car with no intention of buying an Audi and drove home with it. The 200 HP under the hood and the McPherson strut front suspension make this one fun car to drive. I was amazed at how much room this small car has. If you test drive, make sure you ride in the back at some point to see what Im talking about. We have the Sport Package, Open Sky System (way cool!), Cold Weather Package, Convenience package and Bose Radio. This car rocks!

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  Tons of Fun - 2006 Audi A3
  By Tom - March 2 - 1:20 pm

  After owning an IS300 that I didnt want to part with, I discovered this diamond in the rough. No doubt the best car for the money if you care about a great engine, trans, fuel economy and creature comforts. The vehicle feels/drives much heavier than it really is. Excellent!

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  All smiles! - 2006 Audi A3
  By Likealot - February 18 - 12:16 am

  I love this car. We traded in our 2003 BMW 3 series because we saw the car sitting at the dealership and were looking for a car with more room. We drove it and fell in love with it instantaneously. The interior is beautiful, the power and handling is great and we get over 31 mpg! The rear seats fold flat giving you a cargo hole that can almost hold a dryer!! The rear seating is a little short on leg room, but the BMW wasnt any better.

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  Recommended - 2006 Audi A3
  By Tim - December 11 - 5:26 pm

  This car is a solid ride, nimble both in speed and in the turns. The steering is the smoothest I have ever driven. There is a slight pause in quick acceleration but the car is very fun to drive. The interior is comfortable and the features are readily accessible and intuitive. For me it is the perfect size, great performance and a great look. I have looked at several different cars over the past few years (before finally giving up the Honda) and there is no contest for this car in the under 30k market.

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  SPORTback - 2006 Audi A3
  By avanticat - November 27 - 9:36 pm

  The Audi A3 sportback is a great vehicle to own and drive. With a great engine, good fuel economy, and stylish European looks, the 2006 Audi A3 sportback really lives up to its name as a SPORTback. It is an awesome first car.

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  Great Decision - 2006 Audi A3
  By Courtney - October 15 - 12:40 am

  After initially looking for an SUV, this purchase was a great decision. The A3 is a blast to drive, particularly when using the DSG transmission. The Open-sky is very cool and keeps the whole interior bright but slightly noisy when open. The Bose stereo is imperative. Im 60 and have a little trouble finding a comfortable seat position, but thankfully have the auto driver seat. The only problem I have with the car is the narrow space between the brake and accelerator pedals where I often kick the brake when trying to reach the accelerator.

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  the first car Ive every really loved - 2006 Audi A3
  By matt w - August 17 - 3:00 am

  I had been waiting for a couple of years, for a sporty, upscale, SMALL car. To me the WRX is unrefined, the RSX too impractical, and Mazda 3 is nice, but somewhat cheap feeling. So this was the car for me, and I couldnt be happier with it. There are so many thoughtful details that arent obvious at first that make this car really special. For example, it comes with 2 different keys, and for each key, remembers the last setting on the dual-climate control. It is so fun to drive, full of safety features, and has plenty of room in back with the seats down (my dog approves!)

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  Very impressed with my Audi A3 2.0T Quattro - 2017 Audi A3
  By Steven Rosengren - June 24 - 4:46 am

  Overall this is an impressive "little" luxury car. The car handles and rides extremely well. It goes exactly where you point it and the ride is smooth and very quite. The engine performance and handling are very refined. The feel of the leather wrapped steering wheel and leather seats are amazing. The sound system and infotainment system are excellent, but take some time to get familiar with. I do not like the engine start/stop system, but I am glad you can turn it off. Overall this is a great compact luxury car that I look forward to driving everyday and looking back at after I park it.