The upscale A3 hatchback has a tasteful and well-finished, if somewhat snug, interior and generous power output. Base models are powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder. The S-tronic transmission, a manual that shifts automatically, works very well. We found the A3 quite taut, nimble, solid-feeling, and quick. All-wheel drive is optional on nondiesel models. The diesel should get similar fuel economy to the VW Golf TDI, in the mid- to high 30s. For 2014 the A3 is redesigned and will be available only as a sedan in the U.S. market.
A subscription to ConsumerReports.org includes Consumer Reports road test reports (based on over 50 different tests).
Audi Blog Content
Audi Allroad: Smart money or stupid money?
We love driving the Audi Allroad. It's tough to label anything a "staff favorite," but with over six months of service and 12,000+ miles on the odometer, it's clear that the Allroad doesn't stay stationary for long. And while there...
Beyond turbos, what car technology works to boost mpg?
The past few years have shown dramatic fuel economy improvements in all types of cars in our testing. Rather than exotic technology, such as hybrids and vehicle electrification, most of the improvements have come the old-fashioned way: through conventional technologies...
Best cars for 'megacommutes': Super cruisers starting at $25,000
The U.S. Census Bureau reports that nearly 600,000 Americans have "megacommutes" that have them working more than 50 miles from home or traveling more than 90 minutes each way. As a megacommuter myself, I can relate. Having given this much...
Consumer Reports names the best and worst cars by brand
While car brand reputation can be a strong influence on purchase decisions, such perceptions can be misleading. The reality is, every brand offers models that perform across a spectrum, with some are clearly better than others. As we see in...
CES 2013: Autonomous Audi gets license and drives itself in Vegas
Google isn't the only one developing a self-driving car. At the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Audi is showing off their autonomous vehicle technology and their vision for the future. The technology for the car to drive itself...
