2011
Audi A3

Starts at:
$28,750
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New 2011 Audi A3
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr HB Man FrontTrak PZEV 2.0T Premium Plus
    Starts at
    $27,270
    21 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr HB Man FrontTrak 2.0T Premium Plus
    Starts at
    $27,270
    21 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr HB Man FrontTrak 2.0T Premium
    Starts at
    $27,270
    21 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr HB Man FrontTrak PZEV 2.0T Premium
    Starts at
    $27,270
    21 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr HB S tronic FrontTrak 2.0T Premium Plus
    Starts at
    $28,750
    22 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr HB S tronic FrontTrak PZEV 2.0T Premium Plus
    Starts at
    $28,750
    22 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr HB S tronic FrontTrak 2.0T Premium
    Starts at
    $28,750
    22 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr HB S tronic FrontTrak PZEV 2.0T Premium
    Starts at
    $28,750
    22 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr HB S tronic FrontTrak 2.0 TDI Premium Plus
    Starts at
    $30,250
    30 City / 42 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbocharged Diesel I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr HB S tronic FrontTrak 2.0 TDI Premium
    Starts at
    $30,250
    30 City / 42 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbocharged Diesel I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr HB S tronic quattro 2.0T Premium
    Starts at
    $30,850
    21 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr HB S tronic quattro 2.0T Premium Plus
    Starts at
    $30,850
    21 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Notable features

Diesel model or turbo four-cylinder
Available all-wheel drive
Available dual-clutch transmission
Optional Open Sky sunroof
Coupelike silhouette

The good & the bad

The good

Performance with gas engine
Handling capabilities
Wagon versatility
Audi refinement

The bad

Somewhat snug interior
Lack of luxury touches
High windowsills
See all specifications

Expert 2011 Audi A3 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
The Audi A3 is a premium hatchback that competes with models like the Volvo V50. Front- and all-wheel-drive versions of the five-seat A3 are available in the 2.0T (gas) trim level. A diesel model comes only with front-wheel drive.

New for 2011
There are no significant changes for 2011.

Exterior
The A3’s single-frame tapered grille dominates the front end. The A3’s profile gets flatter toward the rear, like a coupe. Round wheel arches enhance the A3’s stance. Exterior features include:

  • Standard 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Dual exhaust outlets and wraparound taillights
  • Optional bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lamps
  • New chrome accents
  • Two new wheel designs are available

Interior
A low seating position couples with a tall, wide center console. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather on all models. Round air vents have aluminum surrounds, and there’s aluminum trim on the door and glove box handles. Wide-opening rear doors are intended to ease entry and exit. The available Open Sky two-section glass sunroof includes separate blinds to keep the interior from overheating and guard against the sun’s glare. Interior features include:

  • New chrome accents
  • Standard dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Optional black headliner and shiny piano-black accents
  • Sirius Satellite Radio standard
  • Standard leather seating surfaces
  • Standard auxiliary audio input
  • Wood trim optional

Under the Hood
Audi’s turbocharged 2.0T gas four-cylinder produces 200 horsepower and 207 pounds-feet of torque. Gas models can have a six-speed manual gearbox or the S tronic automatic with a manual-shift mode and front- or all-wheel drive. The diesel A3 TDI has 140 hp and 236 pounds-feet of torque and comes only with the S tronic automatic and front-wheel drive.

  • MacPherson strut front suspension
  • Four-link independent rear suspension
  • Electromechanical steering offers speed-dependent power assistance
  • Standard hill-hold assist helps control vehicle on steep grades
  • Audi magnetic ride suspension optional

Safety
Rear side-impact airbags are optional. Standard safety features include:

  • Side-impact airbags for the front seats
  • Side curtain airbags
  • Active front head restraints
  • Electronic stability system

2011 Audi A3 review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
The Audi A3 is a premium hatchback that competes with models like the Volvo V50. Front- and all-wheel-drive versions of the five-seat A3 are available in the 2.0T (gas) trim level. A diesel model comes only with front-wheel drive.

New for 2011
There are no significant changes for 2011.

Exterior
The A3’s single-frame tapered grille dominates the front end. The A3’s profile gets flatter toward the rear, like a coupe. Round wheel arches enhance the A3’s stance. Exterior features include:

  • Standard 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Dual exhaust outlets and wraparound taillights
  • Optional bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lamps
  • New chrome accents
  • Two new wheel designs are available

Interior
A low seating position couples with a tall, wide center console. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather on all models. Round air vents have aluminum surrounds, and there’s aluminum trim on the door and glove box handles. Wide-opening rear doors are intended to ease entry and exit. The available Open Sky two-section glass sunroof includes separate blinds to keep the interior from overheating and guard against the sun’s glare. Interior features include:

  • New chrome accents
  • Standard dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Optional black headliner and shiny piano-black accents
  • Sirius Satellite Radio standard
  • Standard leather seating surfaces
  • Standard auxiliary audio input
  • Wood trim optional

Under the Hood
Audi’s turbocharged 2.0T gas four-cylinder produces 200 horsepower and 207 pounds-feet of torque. Gas models can have a six-speed manual gearbox or the S tronic automatic with a manual-shift mode and front- or all-wheel drive. The diesel A3 TDI has 140 hp and 236 pounds-feet of torque and comes only with the S tronic automatic and front-wheel drive.

  • MacPherson strut front suspension
  • Four-link independent rear suspension
  • Electromechanical steering offers speed-dependent power assistance
  • Standard hill-hold assist helps control vehicle on steep grades
  • Audi magnetic ride suspension optional

Safety
Rear side-impact airbags are optional. Standard safety features include:

  • Side-impact airbags for the front seats
  • Side curtain airbags
  • Active front head restraints
  • Electronic stability system

Available cars near you

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Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
12 years
Powertrain
4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
4 years

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 model years or newer / less than 60,000 miles
Basic
1 year or 20,000 miles (whichever occurs first)
Dealer certification
125-point inspection
See all CPO program details

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Consumer reviews

94% of drivers recommend this car
4.6 / 5
Based on 18 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.3
Interior 4.4
Performance 4.6
Value 4.3
Exterior 4.8
Reliability 4.6

Most recent

  • By jh from Portland
    Owns this car
    December 6, 2020

    Great Used Car

    I'd recommend the TDI version of the A3 SportHatch to anyone looking for a great, fun to drive, fuel efficient, sexy hot hatch, with an eye for detail and reliability.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Tythorn50 from Greenville, SC
    Owns this car
    July 22, 2020

    Best bang for the buck

    This TDI has to be one of the best cars I’ve ever owned. The fuel economy is awesome! Even with only 140hp, the car moves just fine, merging on the highway is no problem. Stereo sounds amazing and the dual sunroofs are great. Seats are very comfortable and it looks sporty too!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Beerguy from Ohio
    Owns this car
    October 14, 2019

    Great car

    I bought the tdi model and love it. I would buy another one of audi or volkswagon models. Great mpg. The needle never moves. Love passing gas stations I dont have to stop at with a gas vehicle
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By watchlover from San Diego, CA
    Owns this car
    June 26, 2019

    The best car I've ever owned

    Trouble free 83000 miles and counting. Have not even replaced the brakes. Surprisingly reliable and extremely fun to drive. It is very refined with smooth ride quality that I was not expecting from a smaller car. Pedal shifters, dual sunroof and buttery smooth 6 gear speed box adds value. Overall meets all my needs as a young professional.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Belinda from Ottawa
    Owns this car
    May 30, 2018

    Excellent car

    After test driving it I fall in love with the smooth drive and how comfortable the seat . I knew right away that the car I would like to have . I wish Audi would make a model or two for middle class customers . I was luck to have found this car for a good deal . I looked up on line at all dealers and they were old model with higher price and high km . Love my car which I name My Sonia
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By rdma from fontana ca
    Owns this car
    August 6, 2017

    good for everyday driving

    this car is not a performance car is more like a golf with and audi badge but yeah is all about the looks
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 3.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By EasyE from SoCal
    Owns this car
    May 10, 2017

    Great sports wagen

    super fast and sporty Audi A3 with excellent MPG. Plenty of room and dual sunroof and moonroof. Very rare 6 speed manual gives a true Drivers Car and control!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By A3 Owner from Roanoke VA
    Owns this car
    August 19, 2014

    Happy with my choice

    My commute is 90 highway miles per day. I bought the A3 Premium Plus edition because of the upgraded headlights and stereo options. The car averages 42 mpg round trip at 70 mph. It has plenty of power for cruising/passing and is comfortable. Couldn't be happier.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By AudiA3TDI from Trumbull, CT
    Owns this car
    September 22, 2013

    Would recommend.

    Thanks Gus & Kevin. Good experience with Champagne Motors. Good transaction, they topped the fuel tank & changed the oil too.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By swanpoint from Chantilly, VA
    Owns this car
    May 8, 2013

    Do your research on fuel injectors disintegrating

    The fuel injectors on these vehicles are extremely intolerant of variations in the quality of diesel fuel. My A3 fuel injector disintegrated and destroyed the turbo and the engine. Audi of America told me what the dealer told me "you put bad fuel" in the car. I put standard diesel.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 1.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By favoritejin from San Francisco Bay Area
    Owns this car
    June 22, 2012

    Got my sporty back

    Been a big BMW fan. Went from M3 to 550i. I loved my M3. It was the most fun I've ever had in a vehicle. If it wasn't for the stupid rain, I would still have that car. The 550 didn't compare. Granted, the 550 was big, luxurious, and fast (had the sport package), and handled very well. But I just couldn't get over the fact that the 550 was still kind of sluggish compared to the M3. And what gas guzzlers these BMW's are. I was lucky to average 20 mpg on the freeway. And filling up the 18 gallon tank easily cost me $75 per tank. I test drove a 2012 A3 with the sport package and 18" wheels and loved it. I pretty much had the M3 feel back, but so much smoother and quieter, which seems to become more important with age. So I went searching, cause I don't believe in buying new cars. Found a very low mileage 2011 A3, premium plus and the all important and rare Titanium Sport package. Wow, the rare 18" monza wheels are nice, the car grips like crazy, the paddle shifters give you instant passing ability, alcantara leather seats don't get as hot, and the black roof liner gives it a custom touch. It's quiet when you want it to be, yet very powerful and just throaty enough when you step on it. It does have a little bit of turbo lag, but nothing that you can't get used to. And being able to fill up for $40 and go further, yes, well worth it. So enough of the pros, now for the cons (cause nothing is "perfect"). -at night, with headlights on, even stopped, when you open the driver door, the car beeps at you constantly and there is no way to turn it off, annoying -the HID headlight casing reflects a yellowish tint -lower gears shift too early, causing slow starts -car features are not as adjustable as BMW's -empty buttons below the radio are unsightly So the cons are mostly superficial things. The pros definitely outweigh the cons. I've gotten a lot of looks in the A3, and I just love driving it. Decision well made.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By northerner from New England
    Owns this car
    December 19, 2011

    Sensational mileage, neat car!

    After doing a lot of research, I decided to trade my old Audi A4 for a new Diesel Audi A3 TDI. I love everything about it (except the navigation system). I am getting 40 MPG in city/highway combination and if the car does not have the punch of the Audi A4, it still has a powerful acceleration and super stability. The disappointment comes from the Navigation/music system which takes a bit of learning...However, once this is done I expect everything will be perfect. I love the fact that I only have to fill the tank about every 500 miles or so. I found the price tag very high, however. Because it was the only model in New England with the specifications I needed for the kind of commute I do, there was very little room for negociation.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
See all reviews

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Audi dealers near you

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2011 Audi A3?

The 2011 Audi A3 is available in 4 trim levels:

  • 2.0 TDI Premium (1 style)
  • 2.0 TDI Premium Plus (1 style)
  • 2.0T Premium (5 styles)
  • 2.0T Premium Plus (5 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2011 Audi A3?

The 2011 Audi A3 offers up to 21 MPG in city driving and 30 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2011 Audi A3?

The 2011 Audi A3 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2011 Audi A3 reliable?

The 2011 Audi A3 has an average reliability rating of 4.6 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2011 Audi A3 owners.

Is the 2011 Audi A3 a good Hatchback?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2011 Audi A3. 94.4% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.6 / 5
Based on 18 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.3
  • Interior: 4.4
  • Performance: 4.6
  • Value: 4.3
  • Exterior: 4.8
  • Reliability: 4.6

Audi A3 history

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