2012 Audi A3

At a Glance

Pricing $27,270 - $32,850
Drive Types FWD, AWD
Engines 2.0l I4 T, 2.0l I4 T D
Transmissions M6, SM6
Fuel Economy 21-30 (city), 28-42 (highway)

Audi offers a range of smaller products around the world, but the A3 is the smallest and least expensive model for sale in the U.S. This conservatively styled compact has four doors and a nearly vertical rear hatchback reminiscent of a small wagon. The styling pays dividends in utility with a cargo carrying capacity that rivals some larger wagons. The base engine in the A3 is a turbocharged gasoline engine rated at 200-bhp. Audi's famed quattro all-wheel-drive system is available on gas-powered models. What really sets the A3 apart is the availability of a diesel engine. When equipped with the 2.0l turbo diesel engine, the A3 carries an EPA rating of 30 MPG City, 42 MPG Highway. The A3 is a bit pricey, but includes a healthy list of standard equipment.

Model/Trim/Package Engine Original MSRP
A3 Premium 2.0l I4 T (200-bhp) M6 FWD $27,270
A3 Premium 2.0l I4 T (200-bhp) SM6 FWD $28,750
A3 Premium Plus 2.0l I4 T (200-bhp) M6 FWD $29,270
A3 Premium 2.0l I4 T D (140-bhp) SM6 FWD $30,250
A3 Premium Plus 2.0l I4 T (200-bhp) SM6 FWD $30,750
A3 Premium 2.0l I4 T (200-bhp) SM6 AWD $30,850
A3 Premium Plus 2.0l I4 T D (140-bhp) SM6 FWD $32,250
A3 Premium Plus 2.0l I4 T (200-bhp) SM6 AWD $32,850