A used Audi A3 is a great way to get your foot into the luxury door, without paying luxury prices. Coming with a sleek look, a comfortable interior, and nice performance to go with, you'll be hard pressed to find something that is better. We'll take a look at some of the generations, as well as year models that you are likely to find so you know what to expect from this premium compact car.
Key takeaways
- If you're not too interested in the most power, then the most recent generation might be the best fit for you. This is because it sits in a good area, while still being efficient.
- If you do value the most power, then you'll want to look for the Quattro, this is the strongest that the A3 has to offer.
- No matter which model you do end up getting, you're bound to be comfortable.
Typ 8Y fourth generation (2022-Present)
Hitting the roads in 2022, the Audi A3 aimed at being that best it can be, to achieve this, they completely rehauled what made the previous gens so great. This model comes with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen on all trims, allowing you to look for other features. Unlike the brand's other models, this one does come with physical switches for things like the driving mode, as well as climate control.
For this generation, there's only one engine available. This one is the 2.0L I4 that is paired with a 48-volt hybrid system. With this setup, you're able to make 201 horsepower. While this is more than enough to get people excited, you can also get 32 MPG combined from it, as per the EPA. This gives a nice blend to those adrenaline seekers, who want to remain environmentally conscious.
When this model initially hit the roads in this gen, it came with 3 trims, but with the 2023 models, this was changed to just two. While the top of the line trim was discontinued, it made it so that the trim that took its place did gain some more features, so it wasn't the worst outcome.
While this generation is still ongoing, the next few years saw some minor cosmetic changes, but we won't go too in depth as they will be harder to find as this article goes up. Plus, given the nature of the changes, it's not too noteworthy. One thing that does remain the same for this generation is that it is Car and Driver's "Editors Choice". This highlights just how dominant, and attractive the A3 is.
Typ 8V third generation (2015-2020)
Moving on to a generation that you will be more likely to find, there's the third gen Typ 8V. This one offered both convertible, and regular builds. Allowing you to find the exact feel you're looking for.
Some features that you will be able to find on this generation are things like adaptive cruise control, active lane assist, as well as Wi-Fi hotspot. Making this a nice option to keep an eye out if you want some decent features.
Unlike the most recent generation, this one does come with two engines to pick from. While they both are 2.0L I4, just with slightly different specs. The base engine makes 186 horsepower, and is paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Quattro all-wheel-drive A3 gets 220 horsepower, and is paired to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic.
If you're wanting something with a bit more creature comforts, then you'll want to look for a 2018 model. This is because heated front seats now come standard on all models, making it the one to look for.
Over the next couple of years, the model didn't really change much, other than how Audi named the trims. After this generation, Audi took a brief break, giving them some time so they don't have to rush, which is why there isn't a 2021 model.
So, is the Audi A3 a good used car?
We think that it is, not only because it's a fun ride thanks to the power, but it's also efficient, making it so that you don't need to choose between one or the other. If you want to see how these models differ from one another in person, then come see us at a Jarrett location today! We have some of the best inventory around, all that is missing is you!