2006 Audi A3 Reviews, Information & Pricing

Pricing

$25460 to $34700

ORIGINAL MSRP

$5113 to $6303

PRICE RANGE

$5848 to $6303

AVERAGE PRICE

$6169 to $5736

YOY PRICE CHANGE

Pros

Premium Interior Quality The 2006 Audi A3 offers a luxurious and meticulously crafted cabin with high-quality materials, soft-touch finishes, and ergonomic controls. The interior reflects Audi's attention to detail, making it feel more upscale than most compact cars. Versatile Hatchback Design The A3's hatchback layout provides practicality without sacrificing style. With 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space and up to 55 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, it offers impressive storage capacity for a compact luxury car. Refined Driving Dynamics Built on the same platform as the Volkswagen Golf, the A3 delivers an engaging driving experience. Its precise steering, responsive suspension, and balanced handling make it enjoyable to drive on city streets and winding roads alike. Powerful and Efficient Engine Options The turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine produces 200 horsepower, delivering strong acceleration and impressive fuel efficiency. The available six-speed manual or DSG automatic transmission enhances the driving experience with smooth and quick shifts. Advanced Safety Features Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full set of airbags, including side curtain airbags. These features, combined with the A3’s solid crash test ratings, provide excellent occupant protection.

Cons

Tight Rear Seat Space While the 2006 Audi A3 seats five passengers, the rear seat legroom is limited, making it less comfortable for taller passengers on long journeys. The compact dimensions prioritize a sporty feel over spaciousness. High Price for a Compact Car The A3’s starting price is higher than many non-luxury competitors, and adding optional packages such as the S Line or Technology package can quickly raise the cost. This may deter budget-conscious buyers looking for value in the compact segment. Limited Standard Features The base model lacks some features expected in a luxury car, such as leather seats, a premium audio system, and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Many desirable features are only available through costly upgrades. Firm Ride Quality The sport-tuned suspension enhances handling but can result in a firmer ride, especially on rough or uneven roads. This may not appeal to buyers prioritizing comfort over sporty driving dynamics. Expensive Maintenance and Repairs As with many luxury vehicles, the A3’s long-term maintenance and repair costs are higher compared to mainstream brands. Owners should be prepared for premium pricing on parts and service.

2006 Audi A3: European Refinement with Practical Luxury

The 2006 Audi A3 delivers a unique blend of European driving refinement, premium features, and the practicality of a hatchback design. As part of a growing trend in the luxury market, automakers are introducing smaller, more accessible models to attract new buyers who may have previously considered luxury cars out of reach. The A3 is a perfect example of this movement, offering the craftsmanship and athletic handling Audi is known for in a compact and versatile package.

Making its debut in Audi’s North American lineup, the A3 was previously exclusive to Europe. It shares its platform with the Volkswagen Golf but elevates the experience with a high-quality interior, advanced technology, and a more refined driving dynamic. With seating for up to five passengers, the A3 combines practicality and performance, making it


3.9
out of 5

EXPERT REVIEW

Look & feel

Performance

Form & function

Technology

Safety

Cost-effectiveness

2006 Audi A3: Sophisticated Design and Premium Features

Despite its connection to Volkswagen, the 2006 Audi A3 showcases a design that is unmistakably Audi. Its front end features sharply sculpted headlights and a large, squared-off grille that extends seamlessly to the lower front spoiler, creating a bold and distinctive appearance. Unlike the Golf, the A3 offers a more refined greenhouse design with rear-quarter windows behind the side doors. At the rear, the A3’s sloping rear window and slightly bulging taillights, inspired by the A4 sedan, add a sporty yet sophisticated touch.

Inside, the A3 blends style with practicality. The modern cabin includes climate control vents that protrude slightly from the dashboard, complemented by metallic accents that echo in the control dials, delivering a balanced and sporty look. However, the interior incorporates some hard plastics, which slightly detract from the premium feel traditionally associated with Audi.

The A3 boasts an impressive list of standard features, including 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, remote keyless entry, and one-touch power windows. Optional upgrades include leather upholstery, fog lights, and driver lumbar support. One standout feature is the Open Sky dual moonroofs, where the front panel opens and both panels come with integrated sunshades, enhancing the airy and luxurious atmosphere of the cabin.

With its sleek exterior design, modern interior, and advanced features, the 2006 Audi A3 sets a high standard in the compact luxury car segment, appealing to drivers seeking style and functionality in equal measure.

2006 Audi A3: Performance Tiers and Dynamic Handling

The 2006 Audi A3 is available in two distinct performance tiers: the 2.0T and the 3.2 S Line. The 2.0T features a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and routing power to the front wheels. Drivers can choose between a 6-speed manual transmission, ideal for driving enthusiasts, or a 6-speed DSG twin-clutch automatic with tap-shift manual mode. The DSG provides lightning-fast gear changes, offering a rewarding driving experience comparable to the manual option.

The 3.2 S Line, as its name suggests, is powered by a robust 3.2-liter V6 engine generating 250 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. This power is sent through a 6-speed automatic transmission to Audi’s renowned **Quattro all-wheel-drive system**. Quattro enhances traction on slippery surfaces and improves grip during cornering, making the A3 a confident performer in various driving conditions.

Regardless of the drivetrain configuration—front-wheel drive (FWD) or Quattro AWD—the A3 showcases its European engineering pedigree through nimble and refined handling. The precise steering response and balanced suspension make it a joy to drive on winding roads, ensuring that the 2006 Audi A3 delivers both performance and driving satisfaction.

2006 Audi A3: Practical Cabin and Impressive Cargo Versatility

The 2006 Audi A3 boasts a highly practical cabin layout, designed for both comfort and convenience. Its intuitive dials and controls are easy to use, and the center stack seamlessly integrates into the shifter area. This design includes helpful barriers for the center stack tray, preventing items like cell phones or keys from sliding around during sharp turns, adding a thoughtful touch to everyday usability.

2006 Audi A3: Advanced Audio, Navigation, and Sport Features

The 2006 Audi A3 offers a range of entertainment and convenience features to enhance the driving experience. Standard equipment includes an AM/FM radio with satellite radio prep, though activating satellite radio requires a subscription. For those seeking superior sound quality, an optional Bose stereo system with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer is available, delivering an immersive audio experience. Additionally, buyers can opt for an advanced navigation system to add a touch of high-tech convenience.

Audi also offers a **Sport version** of the A3, which comes with an optional **Convenience Package** designed to elevate functionality and comfort. This package includes rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, an advanced trip computer, and a HomeLink integrated garage door opener. These features enhance the A3’s appeal, making it a versatile choice for drivers seeking a blend of performance, technology, and practicality.

With its premium audio options, cutting-edge navigation system, and practical upgrades in the Sport version, the 2006 Audi A3 delivers an impressive array of features, cementing its place as a standout in the compact luxury car segment.

2006 Audi A3: Comprehensive Safety Features

The 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a full suite of advanced safety features to ensure driver and passenger protection. Standard equipment includes front and side-impact airbags, complemented by a front passenger seat occupancy sensor for enhanced airbag deployment precision. Additionally, the A3 features four-wheel antilock disc brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution, delivering reliable stopping power in a variety of conditions.

Traction control and stability control are standard, providing added confidence during adverse weather or dynamic driving scenarios. Safety is further enhanced by pre-tensioning seat belts, which tighten during a collision, and whiplash-prevention headrests that reduce the risk of neck injuries. Optional safety upgrades include fog lights for improved visibility in low-light conditions and rain-sensing wipers that activate automatically during wet weather.

With its robust array of safety features, the 2006 Audi A3 offers peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike, making it a standout choice in the compact luxury car segment.

2006 Audi A3: Fuel Efficiency and Pricing Overview

The 2006 Audi A3 delivers respectable fuel efficiency for a luxury compact hatchback. The 2.0T model paired with the 6-speed DSG transmission achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. Opting for the 6-speed manual transmission results in slightly lower ratings at 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. For those considering the V6 Quattro model, fuel economy stands at 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined.

Pricing for the A3 starts at a base MSRP of $24,740 for the 2.0T with a manual transmission. Adding the DSG twin-clutch automatic brings the starting price to $26,220. The 3.2 S Line, which includes Quattro all-wheel drive and a more powerful engine, starts at $33,980. While the A3's price is higher than typical hatchbacks, its premium features, performance, and refined interior make it stand out as a luxury option.

When compared to competitors like the Mini Cooper, priced between $17,000 and $25,000, the A3 offers significantly more cabin space, versatility, and upscale features. The 2006 Audi A3 is more than just a hatchback—it’s a statement of sophistication and practicality in the compact luxury market.

proImg

motorverobibi

Last Updated On Jan, 26-2025

The A3 combines European driving refinement with a host of standard features and a practical hatchback layout. The luxury market is getting smaller. No, the actual sales volume is not decreasing. Rather, the size of entry-level vehicles is becoming physically smaller. This allows luxury automakers to target new shoppers who would previously have waited until they entered the next tax bracket to enter a showroom.