The A3 is an example of the exquisite sensibilities in design and use of materials that distinguishes the contemporary Audi. It is a combination of open-road dynamism, long-haul friendliness, around-town usefulness and fuel economy.

The Audi A3 is powered by either a 200-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged (2.0T) four-cylinder gas engine; or a 140-hp 2.0-liter turbo-diesel (TDI) engine. The 2.0T comes standard with a six-speed manual or optional automatic S-tronic transmission that allows manual selection of gears. The only choice with the TDI is the S-tronic. Quattro all-wheel drive is also available with the 2.0T engine, but then your only transmission choice is the S-tronic. Some high-tech A3 features include Bluetooth phone connectivity, light and rain sensors, satellite radio and dual-zone automatic climate control. Passenger safety is provided by front, side and curtain airbags, active front head restraints, electronic stability control and optional rear side-impact airbags.

For 2010, the TDI engine has been introduced, the 3.2 V-6 engine has been dropped from the line-up, and the former S line package bumpers and rear spoiler are now standard equipment.