The 2015 Audi A3 line has been completely redesigned, and done so with the American consumer in mind. It all starts with the A3 sedan, which is available with two engine options. You can get a frugal and powerful 1.8T turbocharged four cylinder with 170 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. Audi’s turbo engines prefer premium gasoline, but does deliver 23 MPG city and 33 MPG on the highway for the front wheel drive model. You get a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and a host of standard features. The A3 Premium starts at $29,990 before destination charges.
You can of course get the A3 with Audi’s Quattro all wheel drive system and add many options to your heart’s content. The bigger 2.0T turbo makes 220 hp and 258 lb-ft and also uses the tried and true 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. It’s easy to push the price of the Prestige model with options to well over $40,000.
The A3 line will be expanded over the next year to include the A3 TDI diesel, Audi S3, A3 convertible version, and A3 e-tron plugin hybrid in a hatchback.
Check out this First Drive of the 2015 Audi A3 with Roman Mica and Nathan Adlen from beautiful Northern California. The guys run the car through a 0-60 mph test to see how it compares with manufacturer specification.
Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFL since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or simply ‘going for a drive’.
