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2023 Audi A3 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
6 photos

Audi A3 highlights

Customer rating

(not yet rated)

Pros

  • Powerful and efficient engine
  • Excellent technology features
  • Plenty of overall comfort

Cons

  • Small rear passenger space
  • Limited cargo capacity

Mileage (EPA estimate)

28 city, 36 highway, 31 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

6 photos
Price
Year

The 2023 Audi A3 delivers a better blend of performance and luxury

The A3 is a compact sedan that is Audi’s entry-level vehicle. It measures about 9.5 inches shorter in length than the A4 and, unlike previous generations, it’s only available as a sedan. It represents the third A3 generation (in the U.S.) that was last redesigned for the 2022 model year.

For the 2023 year, the A3 had only minor changes. The top Prestige trim was discontinued, but the supporting trims gained more standard features and options. These included standard LED headlights on all models and a wireless charging pad with the optional Convenience package.

In typical Audi fashion, the 2023 A3 manages to find an optimal middle ground between its chief rivals. These include the sportier BMW 2 Series and the more luxurious Mercedes-Benz CLA. Drivers with a penchant for performance would also do well to look toward the more powerful S3 and RS 3, which are reviewed separately.

All Audi A3 years

What is new for the 2023 Audi A3?

  • The Prestige trim has been discontinued for 2023.
  • The Premium Plus trim now comes with Android Auto as standard equipment.
  • The Premium trim now comes with Android Auto as standard equipment.

2023 Audi A3 trims

Curious how Audi A3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Premium:

  • 201-hp, 221-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Remote Start
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Rear Defroster
  • Power Seats
  • Side Airbags
  • Cruise Control
  • Traction Control
  • View our Audi A3 Premium inventory

Premium Plus:

Audi A3 photos

5 reasons to buy the 2023 Audi A3

What We Like

Powerful and efficient engine: The A3’s 201-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine may not seem all that impressive on paper, but in practice it performs on a higher level. It’s powerful enough to accelerate the A3 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds, which is respectable for the class. Its low-range and midrange power delivery makes it feel more responsive and potent, while the transmission does an excellent job of keeping that power on tap.

Excellent technology features: The A3’s standard 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen delivers sharp graphics that are easy to read at a glance and quick responses to commands. Its placement higher on the dashboard also helps reduce distraction. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are included, and a wireless charging pad with a signal booster is available. We’re also pleased by the driver-assist features that eliminate false alarms.

Plenty of overall comfort: The Audi A3 may be a sporty little sedan, but it doesn’t skimp on comfort. There’s plenty of compliance in the suspension to smooth over rougher roads, and the cabin remains reasonably quiet on the highway too. The heated front seats are supportive when cornering yet remain comfortable over many hours of driving.

What Needs Improvement

Small rear passenger space: If your regular duties require shuttling more than one adult passenger, you might want to consider stepping up to the next-size class of sedans. As is the case with many small sedans, the A3's rear seats can accommodate an average adult, but it’ll be a tight fit. They should be fine for short trips but will likely feel too confining for longer periods.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2023 Audi A3 is not yet rated. Help future customers learn about a car you've owned and write a review.

3
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Audi A3 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Audi A3 15th out of 25 among Luxury Compact Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Audi A3

Audi A3 features and specs

Premium 2WD 4D Sedan

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather Seats
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Parking Sensors
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Smart Key

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

201

Torque (ft-lbs)

221

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

14.5

Wheelbase

103.8"

Overall length

177"

Width

71.5"

Height

55.7"

Leg room

F 41.2"/R 35.2"

Head room

F 36.8"/R 36.6"

Front tires

P225/45HR17

Rear tires

P225/45HR17

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2023 Audi A3 FAQ

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