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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  Think it over - 2008 Audi A3
  By zhengsmassage - March 30 - 1:00 pm

  When I first bought this car I loved it! It is fun to drive, the stick shift is fast and with a few modifications this car can look nice. Good gas mileage, good sound system. I really like everything about this car except. It has given me so many problems. My car is only two years old now with 40,000 miles and currently in the shop again. My battery has gone bad after only two years! Unbelievable! I replaced the starter in the car twice, once at 8,000 miles and another at 20. Dont know how long Audi will cover it but I think there might be a bigger problem causing it. I also replaced the stereo system because of a malfunction and the windshield wiper sensor (hazard with no ww in the rain

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  Love Love Love It! - 2008 Audi A3
  By Jeannek - March 23 - 11:21 am

  I had to get a 4 door b/c I was pregnant but I wanted as close to a sports car w/4 doors as possible. After much research and reading, I found the A3. I am a true car junkie- grew up reading my dads car mags & this car does everything I need it to and more. I have the S-Line & although I got the automatic instead of manual trans (hard to shift & find binkies), it is a blast to drive! The acceleration esp when you go to pass is amazing- put your foot down &/or downshift & it just goes! I know its a little small (Im 52") but my 6 husband & tall step kids all fit w/my Britax car seat. I love the hatch & when the time comes, Ill just get another one!

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  So much for German Engineering - 2006 Audi A3
  By Juanp - March 22 - 9:30 am

  It seems that Germans have not discovered aluminum. All the interior design is in plastic with silly parts that break and are not covered by the warranty. Of course, the crooks from the dealer will charge $1000 for any stupid part and make you wait for a week to get it. I used the back seat arm rest once and it broke I plugged an ipod in the cigarette lighter and it broke the two moon light roof hatches broke the bolt that holds the spare tire broke, etc. In addition, the car gets a check engine light every six months. As another reviewer noted, I had to change the Pirelli tires at 10k miles because they were really noisy. Finally, the dealers are pretty bad (but thats another post)

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  A3 TDI perfection! - 2010 Audi A3
  By David-A3TDI - February 26 - 5:11 am

  Had been interested in purchasing a diesel for some time now but never seemed to make financial sense until the A3 TDI came out. Only $1200 more than a standard FWD A3. The Fed tax credit of $1300 covered the difference plus the state waives sales tax. What a great car! Love how it drives and rides. The TDI engine has plenty of pull to get on the highway and for passing. The interior is very impressive with surprisingly amount of room. The exterior looks fantastic especially with the LED/xenon headlights and black sunroof. Extremely happy with the purchase. Averaging 39 mpg. Great job Audi!

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  Love It! - 2006 Audi A3
  By KK - February 19 - 10:18 pm

  I love driving this car! It handles great around corners and has a nice tight suspension. The extra moon roof is a great addition. Not too happy with the cellphone charger application as it became out of date pretty fast but the bluetooth on the other hand was ahead of its time. Only at 38,000kms and pretty happy with it. I found when I put winter tires on it was really quite noisy in the car. So far the only issue I have had with it is my rear tail light keeps burning out and I am not sure why? I still need to take it in for some kind of recall with the gas cap issue. People actually stop me and ask me about this car, too bad they wont be making it with the 3.2 anymore.

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  First Update - 2010 Audi A3
  By Martin - February 6 - 9:53 am

  Passed 1000 miles with flying colors. Able to push it a bit and diesel torque is evident. Combined mileage at about 35 mpg, highway over 45. If the reliability holds up -- so far, so good -- will likely sell my second car (98 BMW540). Couldnt be happier but am looking forward to an A4 wagon with diesel. More wheelbase, more power. Caution: This is a small car, not for large people. At 57" and 130 lbs, its just right for me.

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  Little Green Machine - 2010 Audi A3
  By W Kayen - January 28 - 5:37 pm

  Traded in a 2008 Prius that had a lot of technology but no comfort. The A3 is amazing and so beyond all I could ask for. It is very upscale inside and out. The mpg is excellent and the torque is a thrill. The Ipod interface allows me to have a lot of CDs in an organized fashion, and the Bose sound is so clear and deep. The Navigation has real time traffic and a crisp and clear screen. I love the LED lights front and back. The car in Ibis white looks very European, especially with the black open sky roof. The transmission feels like a manual without all the work. Storage room is a little better than the Prius. I highly recommend the A3 TDI for MPG as well as practicality.

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  Two weeks old - 2010 Audi A3
  By Martin - January 25 - 2:47 pm

  Just had my A3 TDI for two weeks but, so far, its an outstanding little vehicle. Peppy, quick steering, and great to shift in the manual mode. Build quality and economy are excellent, ride is a tad choppy but sure-footed, comfort is adequate, and interior and exterior are show- stoppers. My other car is a 540 BMW, so the downsize is taking a bit of adjustment -- dont know how Ill like the A3 on a long trip -- but so far, a big thumbs up. Anxious to take out to the interstate for a 500 mile shakedown.

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  Audi TDI - 2010 Audi A3
  By kmke - January 10 - 3:08 pm

  Bought our car Dec 23rd - drove 500 miles home - we are averaging 35 mpg in the break in period. Enjoying the comfort and fun of driving but find the navigation system very deficient compared to our Lexis RX400h system. Wish AUDI offered homelink in this car - the convenience group would be even more convenient with the ability to open at least a garage and neighborhood gate. Irritating rattles in the sunroof are waiting adjustment. Wish AUDI included at least one quart of oil for the break in period. Overall very pleased with this car - would highly recommend.

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  Nearly 4 years in... - 2006 Audi A3
  By AW - January 4 - 9:48 am

  ... and just passed 65,000 miles. Still love driving the car. Clutch still good. So far, failures are: a/c compressor, turbo valve, psgr lock button and radiator gave way at 52,000 miles the last one really got me bent cause the car was just out of warranty. Now have check engine light on, but car is running fine. Coded as fuel cap leak, so not worried. Car is on third set of tires. Original pirellis VERY noisy when worn, got zeons then yokahamas. Zeons good but wore out in about 5 minutes, yokahamas are a good compromise.