2016 Audi A3

What Is the 2016 Audi A3?

The 2016 Audi A3 is a subcompact luxury car available in sedan and convertible body styles. It competes with the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, BMW 2 Series and Acura ILX. Available trim levels are Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. The higher-performance 2016 Audi S3 is covered separately.

What's New on the 2016 Audi A3?

For 2016, the Audi A3 adds a number of standard features: parking sensors, a backup camera, Alu-optic interior trim, heated side mirrors and heated washer nozzles.

How Does the 2016 Audi A3 Compare to Other Subcompact Luxury Cars?

Among small luxury cars, the 2016 Audi A3 excels in many areas but has some weaknesses. The Buick Verano, for example, is well-equipped and offers a lower starting price. The 2016 Audi A3, however, surpasses the Acura ILX in both performance and refinement. It most closely resembles the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250, with similar performance, interior and available features, but the A3 has more passenger room.

What Features in the 2016 Audi A3 Are Most Important?

The 2016 Audi A3 comes standard with a 170-horsepower, turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder. Available engines include a 220-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 150-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel. Front-wheel drive is standard on both sedans and convertibles, and all-wheel drive comes on more-expensive trim levels. Standard features include leather upholstery, xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights, LED running lights, LED taillights and a retractable multimedia screen. A panoramic moonroof is standard in the sedan, while the convertible has active rollover protection. As is required in all new cars, the 2016 Audi A3 includes an electronic stability system, front airbags and antilock brakes.

Available features include a blind spot warning system, adaptive cruise control, a forward collision warning system, LED headlights, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and 4G LTE Wi-Fi for up to eight devices (subscription required).

Should I Buy the 2016 Audi A3?

The 2016 Audi A3 is a good choice for luxury-car shoppers who enjoy strong performance, a refined interior, standard leather seating and a comfortable ride. However, the cramped backseat may disappoint rear passengers, and adding Quattro all-wheel drive decreases trunk size.

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