2006 AUDI A3

Sporty & Practical

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

I cross shopped this car against the Subaru Legacy GT/ WRX, and Audi S4 V8. The Legacy felt bland and the WRX unrefined. While the V8 S4 with it's 300hp was the best motor, the interior was small and the A3's hatchback trumps it for practicality. The A3 S-line comes with all the bells and whistles: Sirius XM, Bluetooth, heated driver and passenger seats, twin glass roofs, self leveling HID lights etc. Audi continues to make cars with handsome interiors. Of course the famed Quattro drive makes winter driving a breeze. Performance is brisk for 250Hp and launches are surefooted with AWD. Brakes haul down the car in an instant with little fade.

Love My A3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my car in November 05 when it first hit the dealer. I've had no problems other than a couple factory recalls (and I never had a problem, but took it in anyway) and recently, a misfire in cyl 3 code which seems to pop up. New plugs and coils, so not sure what the issue is. I still get 32MPG on the highway, and yes, that is actual with cruise set @60MPH. I get my car serviced as required. I did have an issue with the front sunscreen. That is a cheap part they could have done better with. I just put 62k, and still going strong. It still has pep, and still looks brand new inside and out. Power when I need it....overall, the car has been great.

Only one problem...

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My 2006 A 3 2.0 T the only problem (after four yrs.) are the sunshiled clips. I take the car to every service on the book. Does somebody knows where I can buy those clips (used) ? Just the clips. They cost around 90.00 each at the dealer & about 450.00 of labor.

What a dissapointment!!

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

Have had this car for 5 years now and I'm completely dissapointed in the craftsmanship and performance of this car. So far I have had to replace: fuel pump, water pump and thermostat, air conditioner evaporator, left tail light bulb (about a dozen times) even though dealer swears there is nothing electrically wrong. Sun roof shade clips break just by looking at them. In addition, the paint on most of the dash board control buttons is flaking out and the paint in the pillars between the doors is about to fall off. Probably one of the worst cars I have ever owned.

Good Service, Junk Car

Performance: 2 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Owned certified pre-owned 2006 A3 for 2 months. Heres my timeline, you can be the judge. Week 1 - Heater Blower Motor Dies, Replacement is louder then stereo can go Week 2 - Engine Misfires in Cylinders 3, Car in the shop for a week. Week 3 - Coolant not working AUX fan comes on to cool engine, caused by freezing coolant (improper mix) Week 4 - Engine Light Flashes, Misfire in 3 & 4, Car in shop for week Week 5 - Engine light solid coming off and on Week 6 - Full Coolant Leak, caused by cracked housing from freezing. (another improper mix) Week 7 - Misfires between gear changes (2nd and 3rd gear) Week 8 - Engine Light Solid, returned car to dealership for FULL refund

Great car let down by DSG

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I wanted a fun-to-drive car, with a bit more luxury. The A3, being based on the GTI, should be fun-to-drive, and come with nice Audi touches, so I thought this was the car for me. The Audi comfort touches are all there, but sadly, the fun-to-drive was not. The major problem is that in Drive mode, the DSG transmission like to conserve fuel, so it keeps rpm low (1500rpm). This means that when you need power, it takes a long second or two to kick down 2-3 gears to get going, which really really kills the fun-to-drive factor. On Sport mode, it's nice and aggressive (never drops below 3000 rpm), but for daily driving, it's a little too "caffeinated."

Great car when it runs

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

Had A3 2.0T 6MT Sports package. Very fun to drive, but very unreliable. Over 4 and 1/2 years of owing it at 45000 miles, I had window sensor issues, hutch lock system replaced, ignition coil failed 3 times, cannot keep alignment more than 6 months, coolant start leaking, center console for rear broke off, temperature sensor failed. Dealer in MA will charge each inspection $110 even it is nothing more than error code download and same task. Start costing me a lot to own it. I finally got rid of it

What a surprise!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Just got this A3 with 55,000 on it. The interior did surprise me. Well made and very good design. Drove it and just after 5 minutes I knew this one was a keeper. Been in the car rental business for over 25 years, you get to know vehicles, and this one really won me over that fast. I hope that it will be as good on reliability. The Europeans have it right, just the right size and no wasted of space.

So much for German Engineering

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

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 that's another post)

Love It!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

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 won't be making it with the 3.2 anymore.

Nearly 4 years in...

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

... 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.

Reliability is terrible

Performance: 2 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

I've had an Audi A3 2006 and it's been nothing but trouble, with numerous repair visits to the dealer (covered by warranty until recently). The problem areas have been the fuel injection system and various electronic components. Just in the last 6 months, I've been to the dealer 7 times. If you like to spend time in the waiting room of your dealership, this is the car for you. Otherwise, there are much better (and cheaper) choices out there.

A3 Tire noise

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I love the car, however, at 7500 miles I complained about tire noise. The dealer's response was to replace the tires. I felt that this answer was inadequate. Am I supposed to replace my tires every 7500 miles? Audi obviously knows about the problem on the A3 but refuses to do anything about it. This has soured me on the car. I will never buy another Audi.

Now I Get It!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I needed a decent mileage, daily commuter that I could live with. Looked at domestic and Japanese offerings - settled on an 06' A3, 2.0T, DSG, 25,000 miles for $19k. The hatch layout provides extra room when I need it. This car is fun, fun, fun. Don't know how I ever lived without DSG trans. My 1st Audi and handles awesome. Had a 09' S4 convertible loaner during last service w/o DSG and couldn't wait to get mine back. Both front and back armrest latches have broken and there was a turbo problem - handled under warranty with loaner. The little problems are worth the fun factor for me!

Great car--lousy service

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

This 06 A3 has been described to me as over engineered. When the car works well--95% of the time it is fantastic. When the a/c compressor went, it took 3 visits to the dealer with them telling that nothing was wrong, until I went crazy and an exec got into the car and told the service manager I was right. The radio switches stations on its own randomly--Audi says it's my imagination and I should buy my own aftermarket replacement etc.....I really don't know if the collection just has bad service or Audi USA is not consumer friendly --as they blame each other. 4 or 5 other thing have gone wrong over 21,000 miles. Not horrible, but not top reliability. It's a fight to get the dealer to fix it?

Very VERY Disappointed

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I was excited to finally own an Audi. At first the car was fun to drive then things started to go wrong at around 12,000 miles. First the diaphragm for the turbo. Then the DSM Transmission failed. Had to get towed. After my dealer rebuilt the transmission the car lurches into gear never a smooth take off. Last week the entire cam shaft had to be replaced because the lobes on the shaft that drive the fuel pump worn completely through the follower and into the pump itself. Check engine light comes on constantly. Engine uses 1 quart of oil every 4,000 miles. Sun roof cover has been broken 3 times since I got the car and now is fixed with a temporary paper clip. Ugghhh!

2006 A3 2.0T Manuel

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought new, love this car. Had a VW Jetta 1.8 T, loved that also but this is much better. Great all season vehicle snow/rain no problem all season. Perelli P6 stick like glue and wear like iron. Just changed at 45K. Plenty of room for golf clubs and pull cart in rear without folding down rear seats. Vehicle has been very reliable. Handles like it's on rails. Would definitely consider buying another next year!!!

Dissapoinment

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

The reliability has been terrible. Back in shop over and over again in the past six months. The warranty and the extended warranty has been useless. Always pondering what will break next. Not fun when you are driving a seven year old around.

Never Again

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

The 2.0 liter turbo jerks a lot and gas mileage is average. Rides great on the highway but too "loose" in the city. I have had several problems with my car and am just glad it is under warranty (though a new battery is not covered). My battery completely died after two years. The clip for the sunshade on the Open Sky system broke (as is common) and was replaced by a non-matching black clip (interior is grey). At 21,500 miles, my manual transmission broke where 1st gear and reverse did not work. My car is currently in the shop (over one week now) and Audi is going to replace the transmission since they are afraid the problem could spread to the other gears if they rebuild it.

Amazing Car for the Money

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has been a very nice vehicle to own. It has been to Northern Michigan during the winter ( ESP worked very well )and the summer A/C worked very well . Average mileage winter/ summer is about 23 mpg city and about 28 / 29 highway. In the winter we have seen 32 mpg on a round trip to Atlanta and on a trip to North Carolina we saw about 28 . Very comfortable on a long trip. In town as an errand vehicle the car has been very handy. Parking is a breeze and even in summer with the AC running ( as in right now ) we get about 21 in town day to day stop and go. The warranty on the 2006 was handy with the sunshade and the AC needing repair as well as the oil change and service intervals.

Love the Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I've had the car for two years. It's a lot of fun to drive, and gets decent mileage (~27mpg). The interior is perfect for my needs, and the hatchback is highly functional. There's been some wear and tear. A lost button, and a busted door handle. Given I paid $26k for the car, I consider it an outstanding value.

What a Gem

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I traded in my 2003 530i for a certified pre-owned A3 with 36,275 miles on it. I couldn't be happier. It is a phenomenal vehicle, and all for under 30k. It all starts with the engine. The 2.0T is a great powerplant, and I love the short throws on my 6 speed manual transmission. The low end torque really gets the car going. The steering is very responsive and the ride is very stable. It is such a blast to drive. It is a coin flip between this A3 and a 323i as the best driving cars I have ever owned. The quality of the interior build is much better than the BMWs I have just come out of (a 323i then 530i). The fuel economy is not bad (25mpg for me) for such a fun car to drive

Looking good, but many major problems

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

We leased the car in October. By July AC broke down in 90 degree heat and 100% humidity. Audi couldn't fix the problem for a month. They had to replace the compressor twice. Then a year later I fule pump broke down on a highway and the car almost stalled. I barely avoided the accident. Now my just simply wouldn't start one day. When mechanic from Audi came - the and tried to start it - the engine started smoking. Week later they tell me oil pump is broken and they are replacing the engine. I am getting rid of the car - I no longer feel safe driving with kids in it. Total dissapointment.

Great Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car just under 3 years ago. My lease is almost up, and I am going to buy it. The car looks great, drives great, fast for what it is, good fuel efficiency, nice options, DSG is great, and reliability is very good. There are only two issues with this car. Considering the performance, the springs should be a little harder, I replaced them and I am very happy now. The other issue. Mankind has been building cars since 1908, you think by now we could wash the engine with a hose pipe and not damage the engine. Well maybe I am wrong, so I did, and it cost me $180. Do not wash the engine with water. Otherwise really a great car.

Driving experience

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Really fun to drive, excellent comfort and the sound of the powertrain is pleasing.

Mighty Little Hatchback

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I recently purchased an A3, 2.0T with the intention of having a daily driver that offered economy as well as reliability. My immediate impression once I climbed into the well fitted interior was that this was a driver's cockpit. As I pressed the little vehicle I soon lost sight of the mundane purpose and started focusing on how incredibly fun this car was to drive. I must confess with a stable of alternatives I often find myself firing up the little Hatchback as a prefered choice. Imagine that! This vehicle hits the bullseye like Willy Tell. Compare this vehicle to anything available in this meager price range and you would be hard pressed to find such a tightly wound package.

Saved My Life

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

My wife and I had this car for over a year and simply loved it. Had some build quality problems. The rear window had to be replaced because of noise in the radio caused by the rear defroster being on. Also had to have a relay replaced since the car would not go above 30! Aside from that drove it across country and it was great and lots and lots of fun. We just got in a serious accident in it and walked away with only minor injuries from the airbag propellant. This car might have saved our lives. It certainly let us just walk away from a bad accident. I would most definitely get another, but next time I want AWD. VERY VERY SAFE!

Pretty to look at, but don't buy it!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

Great car, but not a month goes by without the check engine light coming on. 2 air conditioning compressors, misfiring cylinders, won't eject CDs, 1 qt of oil every 4K miles, 2 coolant leaks, leaking turbo inlet and seals, and on and on... I will NEVER buy another Audi, what a giant let down!

Solid as a Rock

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Outfitted the A3 3.2 with a Miltek Catback Exhaust and a K&N Air filter to let the car breathe easier and help with gas mileage. However the utterly cool throaty exhaust note before now has the wow factor to compliment everything else on this ride. Got everything except nav and Bluetooth; the car is a pleasure to tool around in with precise handling, brakes, low road-noise and comfortable seating. The Bose system kicks and I absolutely love the Xenon Directional Headlights. My car geek friends are constantly amazed by the DSG transmission and how settled the car is at even 120+. Had the opportunity to drive the car in a recent torrential downpour and the Quattro was just amazing.

2006 California A3-DSG-2.0T

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This Audi replaces my previous 2002 GTI 337 edition, and it is noticably refined even better than the 06 GTi which can be optioned to cost as much as an '06 A3. Prices for these cars [mine bought w/5K miles on odo] have a large range of prices. As a CertUsed purchase you can get upto 6years/60Kmiles on overall Audi warranty. More comfortable and vuality ride than anything previous. Slightly more body roll than I am used to, but it never pretended to be a sports car. Throttle response is good but occasionally confused with DSG happenings. Interior and creature comforts is where ths vehicle shows head & shoulders above the Mazdaspeed3 and WRX-Saab 9-2. Getting used to the DSG takes time.

Pretty good, but...

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Great purchase, in general. You wouldn't expect a 4-door hatch to be a head turner, but it is. The famous Audi attention to detail is there, but I take issues with some of the UI decisions. Maybe it's just mine, but the DSG is a little hinky and pauses and catches sometimes (dealer told me they couldn't find any problems when I took it in). Sunroof clip broke the very first day. No iPod jack on an upgraded Bose system? Come on. No OB computer?? Even my girlfriend's Grand Vitara shows real-time gas mileage.

Great

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Vehicle has been great! Engine has excellent acceleration with 250 horses and automatic transmission shifts almost like a manual. I have 18" rims and my windows tinted and it has been a head turner. Great for younger people, if they can afford it. Only dislike is the size. I need more room in the back, but then I'd have to go on to an A4 right? Better gas mileage also.

A3 is a great car!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The A3 is a cross between the TT and A4 Avant. The 2-liter turbo scoots, car handles well and the wagon design is practical. Interior design is a beauty, with brushed aluminum trim included with the premium group. And you don't see A3s coming and going all the time on the roads. It's almost a well-kept secret.

Safe well built car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I got my Audi A3 sport back 3.2 quattro and think its a great car with loads of space. I just picked up a freezer easily. It went in back with two seats down and room for my mum in back seat. Build is perfect, safe and the quattro makes wet or snow weather easy to drive in. Petrol isn't too bad - 32 mpg on motorway doing 70mph and round town 23mpg. The dsg box is great, won't go back to manual now . It's fast, 3.2 sport and driving on long journeys is great. Hardly any wind noise or road noise which you would expect having quattro.

Well Rounded Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The best all around car you can buy. This car is a special car, I've driven an M5 and this car is more fun to drive. Don't let the size of car fool you - the exterior is small and fun to parallel park in downtown, but the interior is spacious. The stability control works extremely well in snow or rain. I have gotten over 500 miles on a full tank of gas that is only 14.5 gallons big, driving from S.F to Seattle.

2006 A3 3.2Q

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A great car to drive, performance with the 3.2 is smooth and very fast, handling is excellent. Especially like Quattro, no torque steer or wheel hop even under very hard accelleration. The interior is exceptional and the fit and finish are perfect. For the price I would have liked a power passenger seat and rear heated seats, but that is pretty minor stuff. Finished in bright red with 18" wheels it attracts a lot of attention.

Upgrade

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I drove a Ford Ranger before this car, obviously it's a huge change and upgrade. Still, having driven a standard for the last 25 years, I didn't like the auto transmission for the first 5000 miles, but once it was broken in, it's been a dream since. Cost was fair value; I don't think it is overpriced at all even with the luxury package and Open Sky.

One of the Best Choices Under 30K

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've been driving my A3 for a little over a year. The handling is amazing with the sport package. DSG is cool for lazy feet, but not for me. Bottom line: there are a lot of cars out there in this price range. More importantly, there are many above this price range. A GIAC or REVO for this car, and it will hang with the M3s and STIs of the world. However, with the A3 you also get practicality and comfort, which those cars do not have. AND, I'm getting 36 MPG highway!

FUN TO DRIVE

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My A3 is an excellent ride. I drive 60 miles to work one way and it is all freeway. The vehicle handles and performs well. I feel safe on the road. I have averaged 32 mpg on the highway. The car is responsive and when the turbo kicks in I can easily move through traffic. The hand brake could be in a better position. The car should have a compass. Get the deluxe package and 17" wheels.

Very Fun Car, Worth Every Penny!!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Since I knew for a while that I was going to drive from PA to FL – 1,180 miles – I waited to write this review. I have a 2.0T, DSG, Sport Package, 17’ wheels, and the car is AWESOME. Honestly, it could not be better! The engine is very responsive, transmission is smooth and fun to use on all three modes (Sport, Drive, and Shift Pads), interior finishing is upper class, audio system is excellent, and the exterior looks from every angle very sporty. I had never had a car with sport suspension and was afraid that I would get tired of the firm ride. When I test-drove the A3 premium package and the sport package prior to make my decision, I had no doubt that the sport package was the way to go!

Green Sports Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is awesome!! For one thing this is not a dime a dozen car. I love that not every car in the parking lot is an A3. I always get 28-30 miles to the gallon highway and almost the same in the city. What other car can zip you around town take corners fast and get good gas. I got open sky it great is makes the car feel roomier. The DSG is fun when your driving just for the hell of it. Plus you can feel you are in a well bulit car. My doors are way heavier (3 steel beams per door vs. 2) than an american counterpart.

Upgraded from 01 GTI

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Upgrading from the GTI, the Audi feels very familiar. The 6MT is silky smooth, and feels even better than the GTI (awesome feel). I have the lux.pkg., sunroof, coldweather. I am a bit worried about snow and the 17" tires. In researching, I was wanting the 4-door GTI (not avail as of yet) or A3. My 3 main gripes: sunroof in my GTI was superior (1-touch/better sunshade). The basic radio is NOT mp3 compatible and aux input not standard. The climate controls are NOT intuitive (but make sense after studying the manual). It's a great auto, don't get me wrong. The road feel, engine note, steering wheel feel, interior look/design, it just feels right. Oh, my insurance increased only ~$60/year over my GTI.

New Audi A3... Loving It!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I don't think I've ever written a review before, but I had to let you all know I love my new Audi A3. It is so much fun to drive. The gas mileage is what it says on the sticker. It handles beautifully and turns on a dime. It is not for really tall people. My uncle got in front (he is probably 6'3") and almost had to open the sunroof for extra room. I am 5'8" and fit very comfortably. I love the bluetooth capability. That is awesome for talking on the phone, especially since mine is a standard. The only improvement... the voice recognition could be improved. I'll say the number and it will repeat it wrong. Sometimes it is better to just dial manually and then talk using the car speaker.

Those who "get it" love it.

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Best car I have ever owned, period. The A3 is one of the best cars on the road and yet you will be hard pressed to find one next to you at the stop light. Most will not understand this car and just write it off as a "wagon" but the people who "get it" drool over it when they see it. I have enjoyed driving this car so much that I often go for drives just to enjoy it. I bought my 2.0T before the 3.2 was available. I have not driven the 3.2 for fear of wanting to upgrade. The power is more than sufficient in the 2.0. I got almost every option on the car except Nav which does send the price way up but its still a great car and a good value.

3 months & 10000 miles later!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've only had this vehicle 3 mos. but have managed to put it through its paces around so. cal. The car is everything I expected it to be. Practical, sexy, fun to drive. No cost maintenance has saved me a lot. The DSG is smooth and effortless, yet aggressive. The new 2.0 FSI engine is awesome. Even grandma would feel like Schumacher behind the wheel. Props to Audi for making an affordable, luxury, performance, "hatchback"!

Fun to drive but glad I leased it

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

I've had this car 9 months and have put over 10k miles on. A lot of fun to drive, and good looking, too. But I'm glad I didn't buy it. It's chock full of little annoyances. Sticky turn signal, huge gap between 4th and 3rd gears on downshift, sunroof with a mind of its own, bits and pieces constantly loosening or falling off, too easy to knock gear shift out of manual when upshifting, to name a few. And it's a rattle-trap. Very good mileage considering the turbo engine, though.

Couldn't ask for anything more

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Being that my father used to work at the Audi plant in Stuttgart many, many years ago, I know of the German reputation for building quality cars. I have not been disappointed. The single most thing that stands out for me is the performance. I have been thrown back into my seat on several occassions when stepping on the gas. The interior is impeccable along with the skyroof and especially the onboard computer. I no longer have to use a calculator to figure out my gas mileage. The comfort and functionality of the seats are first rate. My last four cars were all Ford models. This is my first Audi. If the A3 is any indication, this definitely wont be the last

Fun drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Car is fun to drive. The turbo engine needs a slight more power, nothing a chip upgrade won't fix. Front wheels due seem to spin a bit, but after some driving time you learn how to minimize the spin.

Mature and Sporty

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I chose the A3 because I was looking for a car that was mature (not a boy toy), functional (can I fit a large screen TV ?), and sporty (fun to drive). The A3 is a perfect match. The DSG is fantastic - but took some getting used to as I would tend to forget I was in manual mode. My only regret was not getting the Sport model, because the suspension is a little softer than what I am used to, but then the ride is more luxurious as well, and I did ask for a mature ride. I'm getting about 22 MPG in mixed driving, but think I'd do better if I quit playing with the paddles. At first I didn't think I'd want the Open Sky roof, but now I am very happy I got it.

A3 2.0 Turbo After 10,000 miles

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car last October after gas hit $3/gal (the first time) and after test driving the others. I have owned many luxury and sporty cars over the years from the BMW 7 and Mercedes S sedans to the BMW M3. I have to say that this car is a perfect blend of fun, function and economy. The DSG transmission is fantastic, the hatchback with fold-down seats plenty roomy, and the gas mileage (~28 mpg) is great for today's environment. We just turned over 10K miles and have had no problems with the car at all! My only complaint is the Pirelli tires -- too much road noise. I plan to own this car for a long time! Congratulations to Audi.

agility and speed

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Overall an exciting car to drive. I'm able to navigate busy DC with little problem, and the DSG TRANNY IS KICKIN. The only complaint I have is the driver seat seems to be losing its support. Seats started out firm, but now they are uncomfortable. Limited thigh support for my 6'1" frame. Sunroof is a blast. Wanted all-wheel, but didn't want the 6 cylinder. Overall a kickin car to drive.

Great car to own and drive.

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have nearly 5000 miles in three months and the driving has been great. I have the Sport package and love the aluminum trim. The car has a quality feel and the engine is great. It is easy to zip up to 80 miles an hour without realizing it. Highway mileage is 27-32 which is a plus. I have the navigation system with Bose stereo - fabulous. I am glad I bought this car and plan to enjoy it for many years. It is a fun car to drive.

all of these reviews are dead on

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

It's incredibly fun to drive. Fast, fast, fast. And agile! I wouldn't bother with a MT b/c the DSG lives up to the hype - definitely get it without the sport package because the paddles are a blast. The 2.0 is doing 80 before you realize, so the 3.2 must be incredible. When you fold down the back seats there is plenty of room. Definitely test before considering any comparable vehicles.

Lovin' It!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

We're a growing family, had to find a car to replace my old 2 seat Honda del Sol SI. We're a Honda family, and I had my heart set on an '06 Civic SI. But I just couldn't get excited about it after driving. Drove 8 cars back-to- back-- Honda, Volvo, Mercedes, Lexus, Acura, even a Prius, and in the $30k range, the A3 was BY FAR the most spirited drive out there. It's a German car and has it's quirks, but for a $5k premium over the Civic SI (with options), this is a *lot* more vehicle. Not too many of them on the road either, and it definitely gets attention. White exterior with Black Open sky roof / Black interior gives a sharp contrast aka some of the Mini's....

One year later, still going strong

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I did an Edmunds review on this car, a year ago when I bought it, and I am still very happy. It is reliable, fast, very useful due to its hatch and folding seats and very comfortable and fun to drive. I added 245 size tires which give the car better traction and handling, but do scrape a little at the back, but well worth it. Currently my mileage is 7700 miles (hard driving), and the car was bought in CA, USA. I still think the car is an excellent buy, but time will tell.

like driving a humming bird

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I haven't found a single design flaw on this car. Everything is perfect. Quality is typical Audi (i.e., very good) but the dash has a somewhat plasticky look (a different rubberized surface would have a nicer look, I think). Also, I'm not a big fan of the aluminum trim on the sport model. That said, this car is an amazing drive. Powerful, fast, almost no turbo lag. No one has outmuscled it on the freeway yet.

All Fun All the Time

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The A3 is great fun to drive. The 2.0 turbo engine is fantastic. More fun than my old supercharged Mercedes. I've always liked to do my own shifting and have had manual transmissions. When I drove the DRG automatic I was won over. I can't imagine going back after after driving this quick smooth automatic, or electronic manual as Audi refers to it. I haven't had any problems with my Audi. It's always a joy to get in and drive.

Weeeehooooooo!!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Nothing compares to my A3! What a personality it has!!! It's sexy looking, quick and heaps of fun to drive. There are not many on the road and people constantly stop and ask about the car... WARNING: Watch the pedal because you will be doing 85pmh and not even realize it... :)

Great Car!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I was looking for a car good for a small family, 25+mpg, and fun to drive. The A3 is a perfect fit. I've only had it for 250 miles but completely love it so far. It was tough to get the exact one I wanted and had to include XM radio. This is my first Audi and was nervous about going non-Japanese, but it felt so great to drive. MPGs are not quite what they say. I have the black leather interior and everyone comments on how great it looks. Also seen comments about the sunroof letting light in when closed but the glass is really tinted so I haven't noticed much heating effect. I think the ventilation system is also really great and intuitive vs other cars.

Audi All the Way!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Researched the car for over a year and finally test drove an A3 among other brands: BMW, Volvo, and Acura. A3 won me over mainly for its fuel economy and the performance - TURBO. A very capable "sportswagon". Most of my friends couldn't believe how well handled the car is on the road - mine comes with the sports option. The AudiConcert sound system is quite good. I can't wait to take this car along the Coastal Hi-Way in Calif. Nice work, Audi!

All-Time Favorite

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A terrific vehicle overall. Fast, fun, with practical features. Beautiful interior and exterior design elements. 2.0T engine a driver's delight. Audi Concert audio very capable. Ride, handling, comfort, and thoughtful touches allow all-day comfort and fun in the twisties. This car makes me smile during and after every drive. Premium and Cold Weather pkgs. nice. "Sportswagon" more apt than "hatchback." The A3 "concept" and execution is dead-on. I'm 6' and OK in the back seat without Open Sky. Solid feel. Looks small, but really isn't. I love this car. The center arm rest can interfere with the hand brake, but it's no big deal. Options can add-up to 30+k. Form follows function.

FUN!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

What a dandy little car. 2.0L with DSG tranny makes for a potent powerplant in this sports wagon(?). Much versatility, fuel efficient, comfortable, agile... just a blast to drive. Get one, if it has enough room for how you intend to use it.

An overlooked vehicle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Having owned an A4 1.8T previously, I've had first hand experience with the Audi product. The 2.0T is a huge improvement over the already great 1.8T and the DSG transmission is a blast to drive. The tight handling and fun to drive factor have made me forget about many of the luxury items I became used to in the A4, including Quattro. My A3 is the best car I've ever owned.

My first car ...

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

It's my first new car. Premier package with Opensky. I am driving a car again after two and half years break and am still getting used to it. Mileage is as expected. Acceleration and handling feel great but sometimes it doesn't seem to respond as well to gas pedal. I don't know if it is my driving. The front sunshade latch on the Opensky broke after 5-6 times of use. The dealership admitted that they have been getting lot of complaints about that latch. The screws attached to the net/hook in the cargo area are really loose. I also occasionally hear some rattles from behind. It is the first production apparently. Otherwise, the storage space seems to justify why I preferred this to A4 sedan.

Feel of luxury for a great price

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Never thought I would own a brand new Audi, but from the minute I saw this car I new I had to have it! The price with some luxury options was reasonable considering the happiness I feel driving it. The paddles are fun, the seats are comfy, the open sky is beautiful and it is so peppy..getting by the trucks on the highway is a breeze. Had some minor problem with the keys bu the dealer to care of it. Have 15000 miles on it already and the car is running beautifully. Best bet for an entry luxury car...has the look of it's higher priced brothers and sisters and a top notch engine and interior design.

Fast, but Open-Sky is cheap quality

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

Initially happy with the power and interior quality. A little turbo lag, especially in 1st gear. Quattro should be available with the manual transmission. I had to go for front-wheel drive to get M.T. which feels inferior to rear-drive cars like 325ci. Car is fast and nimble, but nowhere near that of the 3-series (2003 for comparison). The interior sunshade for Open-Sky system is cheap looking and feeling. The latches are breaking (common problem). This is an Audi luxury brand car and should not have such cheap parts. The rest of the interior is of good quality and presentation, though.

Stylish and peppy car that stands out!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My requirements for a car are always can I fit my 3 dogs? Is it AWD? Is it comfortable on long trips (I pack about 30,000 miles a year on a car....) Does the sound system actually SOUND GOOD? Finally IS IT FAST AND FUN TO DRIVE... The answer to all these are YES! If you need a car that can haul stuff, is sporty, and quick while safe in snow this baby is it! If you have a heavy foot gas mileage won't be as good as you think but MUCH better than my previous SUV. This car allowed me to be practical yet maintain my need for fun, speed, cool gadgets and nice rims all wrapped up neatly in AWD so I can get around on the back roads of NY in the winter.

Looks like a Wagon, but....

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I wasn't so sure about this car, but my fiance insisted that it is/was the best value on the road. We test drove it in Washington DC and bought it in Honolulu, HI. This car is incredible. It's fun to drive, has a definite wow factor, roomy, etc. We haven't had anything go wrong, but I have been tough on the wheels! I take corners fast and I love the feel of the car as it pulls through every turn. I have surprised numerous drivers on the road since many assume this car is just a wagon, but once I hit the gas petal, the A3 accelerates past pretty much anything out there.

Best car I have owned!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have always wanted to own an Audi and now I know why! This is truly a great car - comfortable, reliable and fun to drive. Living on an island I cannot enjoy it to the max, but still appreciate everything about it. A few weeks ago, the car's brakes and handling saved my life - another car turned directly in front of me, I hit the brakes (no locking) and once I had slowed down, I touched the steering wheel to the right and got around the other vehicle - if I were in most other cars, I probably would not be writing this now!

Solid

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Coming down from driving 96 A6, this car gives me so much joy and fun for daily commute of 30 miles on busy freeway 10 in LA. I had such a fun driving A6 qattro for 5 years especially when I was in NY but this little brother is suprisingly solid for the price I paid for. I am sure it's not a very difficult choice for most of folks who test drive this car to agree with me about this car but driving longer period of time just confirmed my decision further more. Drive it and enjoy your life and be a happy driver with this solid A3

Test drove it then.....

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

had to have it!! I bought the last one on the lot, a red base 2.0 with a six speed m.t. This car is a blast....has a bottomless well of torque and a (very subjective) perfect balance between ride and handling. Transmission is positive and quick. The motor is a gem - NO turbo lag and just a sly hint of that distinctive suck/whine that blown engines have. I love this thing.

Very Sweet Ride!!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I drove a lot of cars, some much more expensive, before buying the A3 and I couldn't be happier. The build quality, ride, handling, and power development in this car is excellent, especially at the price paid. The technology with the FSI engine is class-leading which includes a factory front mounted intercooler and forged engine components that should last a long time. The fuel mileage started off only fair at a mixed 20mpg, but over the first 3k miles improved to 25mpg. I attribute the slightly lower mileage to my heavy foot and the car's speed inspiring exhaust notes. An ECU chip brings this engine to max performance with 240+hp & 275+torque, a true monster!

My best car ever

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fun to drive specially on my everyday route going to work, it's a long very winding road. Great performance for a small car. It looks very deceiving because it's a small car anf a station wagon look. But man.... they are wrong to pick this car for a race. This car has a lot of power on it.

2 Thumbs up from a car guy

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am an automotive engineer with a large transplant company from Japan...this was my 1st German car. I am very impressed! Interior/exterior fit/finish is Japanese quality, material quality is tops, handling is extremely good (I got the sport suspension-a little harsh, excuse me, good road input, but that's the way car guys like it!), acceleration is a blast! On 2 lane back roads, down shift, tag the gas and you're by grandma and the semi in a wink of the eye! No turbo lag and terrific fuel economy. Who could ask for anything more? Well, my guests said they could use more rear seat leg room-I think I'll leave them at home next time. This is not your wife's soccer wagon!

Probably the World's Best Luxury Hatch

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought the A3 as a "spare" car alongside an S4 Cabriolet, and couldn't be happier. I suddenly find myself letting the wife drive the convertible so I can get a zippy little hatch for the city! Gorgeous inside and out, responsive, mileage almost as good as my son's Civic coupe, great handling, that transmission.

Quattro BLAST!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is a 4wheel Quattro BLAST! I considered the Subaru WRX as another fast mini-wagon, but after comparing the 2, the Audi made the Subaru seem cheap and tinny. The DSG (direct shift gearbox) is amazingly smooth and snappy as any manual transmission shifter can do on their own.

Very nice sportwagon

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The engine/drivetrain combination on the A3 is amazingly wonderful. 200 hp on tap with superfast and supersmooth DSG. The style is subtle and sublime. The interior is impeccably Audiesque.

The Truth, a REVIEW you need to READ

Performance: 5 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Less than 1yr old. I've ran into every problem imagineable. Let me list all the problems i've had: 1) Locking mechanism: rear locks stopped locking, dont know how or what I did to them (maybe nothing?). 2) Alarm engaging: days later, alarm stopped. Service guy told me to manually lock (you do not pay for a pseudo luxury car to manually lock your car). 3) Moon roof malfunction: the mesh screen would get stuck, I took it back 3 times. 3rd time due to me running over a curb cuz I was pulling so hard. 4)Sun visor & tail light: went out in 6 months. 5) foglight grill: flew off on freeway. $100 something to replace. 6) airbag malfunction. 7) speakers: front ones went out, they said it was my fault for loose wire.

DSG Transmission Problems

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

Car was great until around 7300 miles; then I heard a noise that sounded like an aircraft turbine engine. Took it to the dealer, who determined it was the transmission, but said they would have to notify Audi to determine what work could be done. Took Audi 6 days to decide to replace the transmission, which had to be shipped from Germany. It appears that if the dealer hadn't contacted Audi to pressure them to make a decision, Audi would still be deciding what action, if any, they were going to take. So, 2 weeks after problem surfaced I finally got the car back. Now I'm concerned about the reliability of the DSG transmission. Didn't get any help from Audi Customer Relations Advocate either!

Love Hate relationship

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

The car is absolutely amazing. For an all around do it all vehicle Audi hit the nail on the head. I love the design and the interior layout. I love the sportiness of the suspension and how the car handles every type of road thrown at it. I hate that I have taken the car in for two electrical problems already. First, was the coolant temperature sensor crapped out on me. Audi did order the part and had it in within a week though. Secondly my heated seats went out and come to find out it was just a plug issue. The 2.0T is capable, but needs more. A $600 chip increases to 250 HP and 300 lbs of torque. Cargo could be a little better, but any more and it would be an SUV. Overall it is a great car!

The best of two worlds

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I traded in a 2004 TT (3.2, quattro with DSG) for the A3 3.2 quattro in order to get a back seat. I thought I'd miss the TT but I don't. The A3 combines the performance of the TT (same engine same DSG) with the comfort of a five (well, really four) passenger car. It's lightening fast and the DSG offers even smoother shifts than on the TT. The styling outside and in is great, with elements of the TT and the A4. The new grill looks great on this model. Equipped with the bi-xenon headlights, navigation system (an MMI interface that becomes the command center for radio, CDs, telephone, navigation, etc.), open sky system and Bluetooth, it has it all.

No Regrets

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Pros: Excellent entry level luxury car. Lots of options available. The build quality is excellent inside and out (except for the sunshade - see below) and the car feels very solid and stable on the road. Plenty of power in the 2.0T model. Cons: Power driver seat only available on cars with Premium package (most dealerships carry the Sport package). No power passenger seat available. The latch on the sunshade for the Open Sky system broke within a week (Audi is supposedly releasing a kit to their service centers to fix this flimsy part).

I'm converting to Audi for life!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my first Audi, and I couldn't be happier. The acceleration is amazing (0-60 faster than the Boxster), and the handling is crisp and responsive. The DSG is an engineering marvel as well. This car has opened my eyes to the beauty of Audi, and I will be an Audi loyalist from here on out. This car serves as my daily commuter as well as my weekend joyrider and it fills both roles admirably. The sport program on the automatic is also tons of fun, and useful for showing up coffee can exhaust bumble bees that meet you at red lights...

Worth the wait!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I had been looking to replace my VW Passat for the past year. The new Passats left me cold, I was waiting for the new GTI but after comparing the two and driving the A3 I had to have the Audi. Had mine special ordered as black, silver & grey are the only colors dealers seem to be stocking in the Northeast. I had mine done in white and it really stands out and shows off the cars lines. Great driving, awesome performance (zero turbo lag) and superb roadholding. Will dust many more expensive cars. Front seats very comfortable and sound system rocks.

4DR TT

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my A3 w/sport, convenience, cold weather, Bose, Open Sky and Xenon in Jan. CPO vehicle with 4,000 miles so I got the 6 yr/100k warrantee. I know who the previous owner was. Traded my 00 VR6 VW Jetta. I loved my VW but this car is it. The looks and build quality are top notch. Performance for a 4 cyl Turbo is fantastic. This thing goes. The exhaust note when on the gas is music to my ears. Just loud enough to let you know that this baby has a little something under the hood. Xenon lights are great, Bose is plenty fine, I am not an audiophile and my girls really like the glass over the rear seats. Ergonomics are just right inside. Just a solid package for around 30K.

The best kept secret

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When you get behind the wheel of an A3 the first thing you notice is the attention to detail in the form and the lines, the ergonomics are great. Second, the driving experience is like no other due to the super speed in which the gears are changed by the automatic transmission. There is almost no turbo lag, and the handling is secure at all times. Lastly, the sporty look of this vehicle and how many people stare this little aggresive car might actually change the view that wagons are boring. Why I know that, because I used to think that too, not anymore thanks to the A3.

One great car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After a one-year search for a car that could make me happy without spending 50K the Audi A3 has achieved that feat. I love the design and hatchback flexibility, and solid interior ergonomics (the seats are awesome). The drive is pure bliss: Great acceleration, fun manual shifter and pretty low interior noise. Steering is precise, low body-roll. As mentioned below, some improvements can be done, of which the most important ones are the handbrake and climate control issues. If you are looking for a hatchback at an entry-luxury level, there is nothing better out there than the A3 (BMW 1 series and Mercedes A class need not apply).

Great Performance and Value

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After owning three BMWs I thought it was time for a change. The press reviews of the A3 2.0T lulled me into an Audi dealership and within an hour it became a no-brainer: BMW-like performance and quality for under 30k. I'm in. Go easy on the options (I went for the Premium Package, standard, no sun roof) and enjoy the ride. Its not quite the "riding on rails" handling of my 2000 323ci, but its faster. Really! And 10k cheaper.

Fun2Drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The first thing I noticed about this car was its solidity. Closing the trunk yields a solid thump. The entire chassis feels like it was carved from one piece of metal. The second thing I noticed was the steering. Much lighter than the 3 series, but still providing a lot of road feel and sporty playfullness. This steering really begs the driver to toss the car around. Ditto for the engine, though I haven't fully pushed it yet-still breaking in. One thing I love is the low-end torque. You can really thrash the car around and keep it under 3000 rpm. The interior is beautiful-love the amber lighting, but I have one gripe-the stereo (both bose and std) sounds muffled-get new speakers/amp.

A sports car without the pain

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Manual, Premium package (much better seats), xenon lights, Bose sound (big improvement), Sirius, Bluetooth etc. Replaced the crap stock P6’s with much better tires. This car grows on you. The longer you own it, the more you realize how good it is: great steering and handling, big broad power band, beautifully built, so smooth, surprisingly quiet. 5K miles so far: NOTHING has gone wrong -- not a rattle, not a screw loose. We have been very surprised at how good a high speed (85 mph) long distance cruiser it is. Amazing stability. Immune to gusty winds. Very comfortable. Surprising amount of room and trunk space. We prefer it to our previous larger, more expensive cars.

A3 DSG premium sound sat.

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had the car 3 weeks. So much fun to drive. Shifting the car with the paddles rocks, normally I just up shift and let it down shift for me. It works great. Great car highly recommended.

Audi A3 DSG

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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 don't need to use gas pedal and clutch to minimize the turbo lags. Thanks to DSG, and its only offer in A3s or TTs, don't 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!)

Was Skeptical but now a Fan

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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

Excellent Sporty Choice

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

If you're 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.

Great Fun, But Mileage Claims?

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I just got a new manual transmission A3 2.0T with premium package, open sky and bose/NAV system. Lot's 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?

A3 3.2

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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.

You have to get one of these.

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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.

Audi A3 auto

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

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.

Love Mine

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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.

Wonderful addition to your garage

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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.

Sweet car for the price!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I was looking for an everyday fun car to drive to and from work. There was an auto show in town and I spotted the Audi A3. It looked small and standing 6'2", I fit very well into the car. The next day I stopped at the dealership and bought an 2006 A3 Manual. I have about 100 miles on the car and I love it! I love speed, handling, and no turbo lag. I have the performance package and the seats are great, the hold you in the seat. All in all a great little car for about 30K

Little red wagon

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fun to drive and gives you confidence that it will always go where you point it .....the over all package is very nice.

My First Audi

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

From the beginning, when the salesman showed me this Moro Pearl Blue A3 in the parking lot, I fell in love.The car had just come off the truck. The salesman & I both had to "unwrap" the vehicle. It was like opening a gift. Then there was the test drive. I had previously drove a manual A3 and like it OK, but this fully loaded automatic was quite impressive. I wanted a manual stick but after driving the A3 with the Triptronic transmission & shift paddles on the steering wheel, I was sold. The Quattro version wasn't due out until the fall, but I wasn't going to wait. The only little complaint is that the headlights are too bright for the oncoming motorist at night... they all flash their brights.

It's a blast!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Don't test drive this car unless you are ready to buy it! That is how we got hooked. It is so much fun. The combination of power, quickness and handling really come together to create an exciting experience. The Direct Shift gearbox is smooth and quick and seems to be in perfect harmony with the 200hp 2.0 litre engine, which is incredibly smooth. Really like the interior design and ergonomics and love the external look. A great stereo adds to the overall enjoyment. We have been really happy with this puchase.

This car is a race horse!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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.

Great Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The 3.2 A3 is a great car. WAF is huge, she won't let me drive it anymore. Sport suspension, fast, handles great. Well worth the money. With only a few coming into the states, get one when you can. Guaranteed not to disappoint. DSG and 3.2 makes it a sports car with extra room. Nicely done!

Auf Wiedersehen Boxster -Guten Tag A3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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, you'll love it!

Brilliant

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Brilliant Black with Gray Leather as equipped: Navigation & Sound Package Sport Package Open Sky Cold Weather Xenon Bluetooth I’ve had it a month now, and I am thoroughly impressed... Whether it is around town, or on five hour road trips, this car is a lot of fun to drive. Acceleration and braking are superb -- and fuel economy is remarkable considering there is a 200 hp engine under the hood. The A3 has plenty of get-up-and-go even in DC traffic. The fit and finish of the car is flawless. The metal latches and handles and upscale materials rival cars that cost substantially more. Although very comfortable, my A3 has manually adjustable seats and that is just wrong.

Great Decision

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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. I'm 6'0 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.

My God, this thing is FAST!!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I traded an 02 Kia Rio Cinco for this A3. I have DSG and Open Sky as my only options, Lava Gray Pearl on Gray Cloth. Went on road trip from LA to Sacramento (and back) and it purred the whole time. 85 on cruise control and stil got right at 30 mpg (even with the grapevine). This car is worth every penny. It is the fastest car I have ever driven and I haven't seen a single other one on the road yet. The only reason I gave it a 9 on comfort is because the center cosole seems huge, and it has the impression of being "tight". I should also mention that Entry and Exit is EXCELLENT (not climbing out of the Rio or a Honda - ie. not too low to the ground). I really love this car

Great car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

An excellent vehicle that looks great and drives better! Very sporty, nice luxury touches, utility of a hatchback, lots of power and good fuel economy. This car seems to have everything going for it.

Great Car So Far!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had my A3 for 2 months now, without any problems or concerns. Handles great, plenty of power, and pretty good gas mileage, 25 city, 28 overall. The Bose audio is great, hearing parts of songs that I have not heard without headphones. Only a few items to consider. First, the rear hatch / storage is pretty little; so little that I had to take out the woods to get my golf bag in and had to angle my driver to get it to fit. I also probably would not get the navigation system, it works fine, but there are handheld devices that are a lot less expensive. For guys over 6'1" it might be a bit small, plus the back seat would be tight for adults, but not my kids.

Fun, Utility, and an Excellent Value

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After 5 months of ownership, I can recommend this car. If you buy specs, you may get something else, but I'm pretty confident the 2.0T's 200hp rating is a little conservative. Engine is flexible, strong & has delivered 27mpg overall (22-26 town, 28-32 hwy). Premium pack's suspension is comfortable, but can handle spirited driving. DSG is outstanding & you can use the paddle shifters even in the automatic modes (Drive/Sport). Quality interior w/ room for 4 adults. The all-season Pirelli's have been better than expected, once broken in- sure-footed in the wet & fairly capable in the corners. Great car for commuting, road trips & just plain fun.

3.2 DSG Quattro

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Just test drove the new `06 3.2 DSG Quattro and LOVE the DSG system! It really works smoothly and quickly. The handling is nice and tight and plenty of grip served up by the Quattro system. The interior is spacious for the fact that the car is rather small on the outside. The open sky system is a must! The only problem is that the 3.2 Quattro is too much $ for what the car is. I tested a fully equipped model at $38k! The lighter 2.0T is still quick and more reasonably priced.

Great Performance, Luxury for the dough!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

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 !! I'm 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.

Just got it and love it

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Just bought my A3 yesterday and I have to say that I am impressed. I went from the VW Jetta GLS VR6 to the smooth 2.0 T and it is night and day. The DSG transmission is a must. The open sky is very enjoyable. The car drives smoothly at low and high speeds and has enough kick to make it a sport's car.

Reliability Issues at 4,000K

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Rear passenger door lock burnt out at 4,000km. Door won't lock and alarm keeps going off - Audi did not have the part in stock for 4 days. They suggested I leave it in my garage because I couldn't lock the car! Not off to a good start. I loved the car and, despite previous bad experiences with VW, bought one anyway...I'm thinking I've made a mistake and should have stuck with Acura / Lexus. Other quibbles - I'm 6ft tall and cannot find a comfortable driving position (center console too wide). Lack of memory on power seats makes it very difficult to share this vehicle with my wife. Did I mention I should have stuck with Acura?

Very smooth ride

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

It has the same engine as the A4 with a smaller, lighter chassis, so it is quick. I feel NO turbo lag at all -- amazing! I got the premium, cold weather and open sky packages. Seat heaters are great and premium makes this feel like a higher end car. I don't recommend the BOSE radio - not impressive during test drive and not worth it at $900. I'm an audio guy but the standard one is really about the same. Ride is quite stiff even without the sport package's tight suspension - you decide if tighter is better. Audi has a bad reliability reputation, but this model is not new -- it's been around in Europe for quite a while. Overall, a very refined machine.

The S.U.V. alternative

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I love my new A3. I originally wanted to buy an S.U.V., but with gas prices on the rise with no end in sight, I needed to look for something else. The A3 offers the refinement of a near luxury car, a genuine sporty pretense, and real utility, all with great gas mileage. With the rear seats folded down you can fit an amazing amout of stuff in this vehicle. I got mine with the sport package and believe me, the A3 handles at least as well or better than my former Infiniti G35. The A3 is a great value for what you get. I highly recommend at least giving it a serious look. In my opinion, the A3 and cars like it will eventually replace SUV's in America as gas prices clime to near Europe prices.

Amazing

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I had a Mercedes-Benz C-Class coupe before this- that was a terrible car. The A3 is so much better. It has a much peppier engine, a more luxurious interior, it's much better styled, and is less money. Love the innovation- I got mine with the Open Sky sunroof.

Best Decision We Ever Made

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a fabulous car! Worth every penny that we spent on it. Our model has the 2.0t with the DSG transmission. It is extremely fun to drive whether it's around town or on the highway, and it has ample room for adult passengers in the back seat! We really didn't want to buy a fuller sized wagon, but this car is a big car in small shoes. Plenty of room, plenty of versatility... with the handling of a sports car. If you are in the market for a car of this type, consider the Audi A3. It won't disappoint you!

wonderful

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had this car for about three weeks and I love it. Coming from a Camry family it has been like traveling to a new world with the amount of handling and road grip the Audi has especially on the winding souther california roads. The powerseats of the premium are really the only things I wish I could have withy my sports package. But really, the interior is classy and functional, the leather doesn't get really hot in the sun, and I have black ext. and black int. The only thing you have to get used to is that the car is slightly jumpy when you hit the gas, and when you park it rolls a couple of inches. The other options I got were the open sky and xenon headlights and the DSG.

This car rocks!!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I was in the market for an SUV and when I saw the gas mileage you get on those things I started to look for something different and came across this beauty. The handling is amazing, the drive, the features I got my with the GPS and of course the gas mileage is better than I expect, plus every one turns their heads when they see it.

New A3 DSG owner in Austin

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Just purchased an 06 A3 DSG with Sport, Bose, Xenons, Open Sky. Initial thoughts (<1 week) very good. Worried I'd pay too much for too little car. Not so-it's 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 (I'm 6'1", 215lbs). Quality car.

Flawless

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Most fun you can have in a car that has comfortable seating and decent luggage room with excellent fuel economy for the level of performance. DSG is the best transmission, manual or automatic, on a mass-produced car, and FSI is the most advanced readily available non-hybrid engine.

Love this car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

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.

2006 Audi A3 2.0T

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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.

should have dumped my bmw long ago

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After driving a BMW 3 series for 4 years and believing it was the only car to drive, what a breath of fresh air. I have discovered that thru brain washing of myself that there is a far better alternative regardless of how the magazines continue to rate the bmw. The little A3 out performs handle and is by far more fun to drive, and equipping the Bmw with the options I have on the Audi.....I save about $9,000. This truly is a great automobile.

Blast to drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Drove lots of other cars & SUVs before trying the Audi A3. I was instantly sold on the fun and the solid feel of the car. For a small car, it packs a ton of pickup. Drives so easy! Lots of thoughtful features and styling in the interior.

2006 Audi A 3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Have mine for 6K miles. So far it's great. Tight ride, quick, the skylight opens the whole car up. The DSG trans is AWESOME. This coming from someone who hasn't owned an automatic for 20 years. Slight turbo lag in low (1st) gear but no problem in Sport or Manual mode. I don't see many on the road... this is a good thing.

I'm taking the long way home...