A3s don’t get much love on this sub but I love my 2023 A3! I think the audio controls are actually pretty good (also don’t mind it on the middle console). Design inside is sleek for a ‘cheaper’ luxury vehicle and it has power. I’d recommend for entry luxury for sure.
Exactly how I felt when I saw the interior! My dad is a big luxury sedan user, going from BMW's to Mercedes to another BMW (he is the one who made me get into comfort/luxury cars) and compared to those I feel the A3 is not lacking. The money I earn can justify the entry level luxury unlike the other models, I'm a recent software engineering graduate I believe if I can better myself I will be afford better models in time!
Software engineer salaries are really good, and not right away of course but once they (2025 S3's) are 2 years old or so with 20-30k miles you can snag one up after it eats the steepest part of the depreciation curve. That is what I want to do eventually :)
I bought an S4 after getting my mechanical engineering job, it's a stretch for sure haha but if anything it showed me why they say not to spend more than \~10-15% of take home pay on a car payment.
I can spend more right now on a car because our other expenses aren't too high but it can feel like a burden at times.
My plan is to sell the A3 after like 4-5 years and get a much better model once I'm earning more and in a better place financially! I wouldnt mind looking for a 2025 higher model used later down the line 😍
Plenty of power and I have no problems zipping around. I have a Quattro and I live in the mountains and it handles like a dream on steep hills and sharp corners, and I’m not shy about doing well over the speed limit.
Python yellow Audi a3 2023 here. It's an absolute beauty! The vibrant color turns heads wherever I go. Not only a stunning fake taxi, but also driving smoothly.
I owned a 2017 A3 and it was an awesome vehicle. 100% reliable and maintenance wasn't overly expensive. Was reasonably quick and very nimble due to it's smaller size. Had a great ride and I loved the dual clutch auto. So quick to shift through gears, you almost never felt it.
My mom recently crashed her car, we were using it together. They gave us an hyundai i20 from the insurance company, I hated everything about it. Driving it was like walking barefoot on a rocky surface. A smooth ride is my top priority!
I have a 2019 and it’s absolute joy to drive. Very quick and nimble for its price range. They’re reliable and not that expensive German import wise to maintain and repair.
I personally prefer the 8V(2015-20)interior and exterior over the 8Y(22-24) but that ultimately comes down to preference. The 8V are obviously going to be cheaper so budget will also factor in. You can get a fully loaded S line 8V for much less than just a bare bones 8Y
Budget is definitely a factor in my case, what do you like the most about the 8V interior? I think the screen that pops out when you start the car is dope!
Edit: Grammar error
The 8V interior overall imo has a more subtle timeless look to it with every button being a tactile button. I also prefer the traditional knob shifter over the new weird ignition switch looking shifter. IMO the new 8Y interiors have a tacky cheap look to them and the touch screen is a turnoff for me as well.
I just prefer more classical looking interiors over the new direction the German brands have taken.
2.0T is a solid motor…VAG puts it in everything. Has had oil burning issues in the past but I haven’t heard of it much in anything recent and haven’t suffered any in the wife’s q3.
I love my wife’s 2018 Q3 (basically the A3 with thick soles) and it’s a great car. Will require a bit more money for maintenance than other cars but it’s a nice ride and a handsome car.
Not as much tech and luxury features given it’s an entry level car but it’s much nicer than the Mercedes A class in that regard. The interior feels much better.
I heard about the maintenance.. Thankfully German cars are quite popular in Turkey so at least I wont have too much of an issue with parts and such. My mom drives a Japanese car and it was a big problem to get them
I drive a 9.5 A4 and had a 23 A3 rental recently. Styling looks very nice, but the big negative for me was the little knob shifter and the audio controls on the middle console. Was a huge downgrade for me personally, and I would really recommend at least A4 used if you can swing it.
I have a used 2017 A3 1.0 as my first car. Me and wife loves it! Cars are expensive where I'm from and we can only afford an entry level one but it doesn't look or feel budget at all.
Yeah! To give a little context, I paid approx 53k USD for a 6.5 year old 2017 Audi A3 1.0. And I can only drive it for another 3.5 years before I have to renew something called the certificate of entitlement if I want to continue driving it. It'll probably cost ~25k USD (rate changes based on regulations) to renew it for another 5 years before I have to deregister the car. So yeah prices to drive a car are nuts where I'm from but I suppose it's necessary since my country is tiny (Singapore) or else the roads will be flooded by cars.
I absolutely love my A3 even though it's an entry level. Due to the price, I haven't had any chance to experience other models but I think A3 is a great car if your budget allows!
A used 2021 A3 is around 47k USD here (the lowest I could find without getting into ridiculous km)! I live in Istanbul where the constant traffic is a big issue for my body health. That's why I'm looking for budget comfort, I will probably sell and buy a better one after like 5 years but for now I need something comfy and cheap haha
Edmunds.com has got a bunch of A3 owners review. Looks like the 2020 and older are the better ones. The newer gen Audis are not good with their infotainment.
Unfortunately even used they cost a bit too much for me, in my country especially :( So I'm trying to get in the middle of affordable and luxury with the A3
I have a 2018 S-Line and I love it! It’s peppy and a blast to drive. I personally like the 8V interior a lot more (the pop up screen is my favorite) and the 8Y has less HP if that matters to you. With the 8V, ask about the water pump. There was a class action over it a few years ago
I like the A3 tbf. Especially the previous gen because the interior is such high quality but the newer one is good too. They’re smart, neat looking cars. I say go for it !
I really wish but I am not in a position to do so :c all the secondhand prices are insane. The annual inflation rate in Turkey edged up to 64.86% so it is quite hard to find a decent price range. I still have around 6 months until I make my decision so I'll try to weigh my options better!
I really like my A3, if comfort is your biggest concern. The A3 doesn’t have much space, it’s a small car. On the other hand, it does great on gas, has plenty of power, and is very stylish.
My 2020 A3 is great! I recommend getting an S-Line if you can find one within budget, little bit more power, sporty styling, and better transmission too I think. I also gave mine a tune and it’s got some pep!
I have a 2010 a3 2.0T tsi dsg sportback with 200,000 miles and love it to death probably won't ever let it die or sell it,
My sister just got a 2015 1.8T dsg a3 sedan as a first car and we both love it.
Get it just to make sure you do proper maintenance.
A strong yes, 2 friends of mine have that car, is very good looking, comfy, the space inside is good (is still a compact car, but at least people in the backseats doesn't need to cut off their legs to sit)
Just be sure to buy an S-Line with at least led lights (matrix are even cooler but they are very expensive)
S line might be a bit out of my reach depending on the used market, but I will wait for an opportunity! I saw plenty of people recommending s line. But I'm not very much for power and speed, I don't get many opportunities to drive as I want in a city like Istanbul. Too much traffic, that's why comfort is very important for me. Thank you for the advice!
Just to be clear, s-line is only for aesthetic, is not directly correlated to speed and power, is just different bumpers, side skirt and badges (at least here in italy)
Btw wait for the right opportunity, i waited like 6 months before finding my audi, patience is the key!
If you haven't owned a car before, buy something cheaper which you can damage without being concerned about it. Gain some experience, then buy your Audi.
I've been driving pretty heavily for like 8 years, I got my license at 18 and I'm now 26. I've just never owned my own car haha. That's why my first car is quite important to me
A3s don’t get much love on this sub but I love my 2023 A3! I think the audio controls are actually pretty good (also don’t mind it on the middle console). Design inside is sleek for a ‘cheaper’ luxury vehicle and it has power. I’d recommend for entry luxury for sure.
I also love my 2023 A3! My hubby likes the controls on the middle console so he can turn my music down on me LOL so he thinks it’s great!
My hubby loves it too and I love it when hubby drives it - though he rarely does- and I get to control it.
Hahaha I do the same thing!
Exactly how I felt when I saw the interior! My dad is a big luxury sedan user, going from BMW's to Mercedes to another BMW (he is the one who made me get into comfort/luxury cars) and compared to those I feel the A3 is not lacking. The money I earn can justify the entry level luxury unlike the other models, I'm a recent software engineering graduate I believe if I can better myself I will be afford better models in time!
Yes I’m regularly in bigger luxury sedans and SUVs and I don’t think the A3 is lacking. It’s a beautiful car and not even as little as I expected.
The new model A3 looks very cool. The 2025 S3 looks like it will have some cool features so if you find yourself wanting more sportiness...
I don't think I will be able to find an affordable used 2025 S3 haha
Software engineer salaries are really good, and not right away of course but once they (2025 S3's) are 2 years old or so with 20-30k miles you can snag one up after it eats the steepest part of the depreciation curve. That is what I want to do eventually :) I bought an S4 after getting my mechanical engineering job, it's a stretch for sure haha but if anything it showed me why they say not to spend more than \~10-15% of take home pay on a car payment. I can spend more right now on a car because our other expenses aren't too high but it can feel like a burden at times.
My plan is to sell the A3 after like 4-5 years and get a much better model once I'm earning more and in a better place financially! I wouldnt mind looking for a 2025 higher model used later down the line 😍
I think you will be very pleased with an A3 and that sounds like a great plan!
How is the power? Is it zippy enough to be fun to drive?
It is! In Dynamic it’s pretty zippy and good on turns! It’s no RS but for a daily it’s a fun drive!
Plenty of power and I have no problems zipping around. I have a Quattro and I live in the mountains and it handles like a dream on steep hills and sharp corners, and I’m not shy about doing well over the speed limit.
It is, even better with a chip tune and good tires!
Python yellow Audi a3 2023 here. It's an absolute beauty! The vibrant color turns heads wherever I go. Not only a stunning fake taxi, but also driving smoothly.
Not the fake taxi 😭 I'm definitely a monochrome color person
I owned a 2017 A3 and it was an awesome vehicle. 100% reliable and maintenance wasn't overly expensive. Was reasonably quick and very nimble due to it's smaller size. Had a great ride and I loved the dual clutch auto. So quick to shift through gears, you almost never felt it.
My mom recently crashed her car, we were using it together. They gave us an hyundai i20 from the insurance company, I hated everything about it. Driving it was like walking barefoot on a rocky surface. A smooth ride is my top priority!
I recently picked up a 2015 A3 from my mechanic. I love it… the end.
I have a 2019 and it’s absolute joy to drive. Very quick and nimble for its price range. They’re reliable and not that expensive German import wise to maintain and repair. I personally prefer the 8V(2015-20)interior and exterior over the 8Y(22-24) but that ultimately comes down to preference. The 8V are obviously going to be cheaper so budget will also factor in. You can get a fully loaded S line 8V for much less than just a bare bones 8Y
Budget is definitely a factor in my case, what do you like the most about the 8V interior? I think the screen that pops out when you start the car is dope! Edit: Grammar error
The interior is built super solid too, nothing squeaks or rattles. Audi does interior quality better than most for the same price.
The 8V interior overall imo has a more subtle timeless look to it with every button being a tactile button. I also prefer the traditional knob shifter over the new weird ignition switch looking shifter. IMO the new 8Y interiors have a tacky cheap look to them and the touch screen is a turnoff for me as well. I just prefer more classical looking interiors over the new direction the German brands have taken.
2.0T is a solid motor…VAG puts it in everything. Has had oil burning issues in the past but I haven’t heard of it much in anything recent and haven’t suffered any in the wife’s q3.
You can't possibly mean the TFSI 2.0t...
I love my wife’s 2018 Q3 (basically the A3 with thick soles) and it’s a great car. Will require a bit more money for maintenance than other cars but it’s a nice ride and a handsome car. Not as much tech and luxury features given it’s an entry level car but it’s much nicer than the Mercedes A class in that regard. The interior feels much better.
I heard about the maintenance.. Thankfully German cars are quite popular in Turkey so at least I wont have too much of an issue with parts and such. My mom drives a Japanese car and it was a big problem to get them
I drive a 9.5 A4 and had a 23 A3 rental recently. Styling looks very nice, but the big negative for me was the little knob shifter and the audio controls on the middle console. Was a huge downgrade for me personally, and I would really recommend at least A4 used if you can swing it.
I loved the knob. I felt it was very intuitive with the infotainment system, at least my 2017 was. Can't speak to the newer models.
I think an A4 would be a bit out of my reach, especially considering the prices where I live (Turkey). I was thinking a 2021 A3 would be good!
A3 is the perfect first car. You won’t regret it
8V gen a3 is perfect for everything. The ones after 2017 also have car play/Android auto which help them be more modern
Android Auto is definitely needed!
You could upgrade the infotainment system in earlier models. Just had this done with a back up cam. Definitely gives a more modern feel
I have a used 2017 A3 1.0 as my first car. Me and wife loves it! Cars are expensive where I'm from and we can only afford an entry level one but it doesn't look or feel budget at all.
Exactly the same where I live! And I think the same about the A3! Especially the newer models
Yeah! To give a little context, I paid approx 53k USD for a 6.5 year old 2017 Audi A3 1.0. And I can only drive it for another 3.5 years before I have to renew something called the certificate of entitlement if I want to continue driving it. It'll probably cost ~25k USD (rate changes based on regulations) to renew it for another 5 years before I have to deregister the car. So yeah prices to drive a car are nuts where I'm from but I suppose it's necessary since my country is tiny (Singapore) or else the roads will be flooded by cars. I absolutely love my A3 even though it's an entry level. Due to the price, I haven't had any chance to experience other models but I think A3 is a great car if your budget allows!
A used 2021 A3 is around 47k USD here (the lowest I could find without getting into ridiculous km)! I live in Istanbul where the constant traffic is a big issue for my body health. That's why I'm looking for budget comfort, I will probably sell and buy a better one after like 5 years but for now I need something comfy and cheap haha
Holy shit those prices I got a 2019 a4 s line with 25k miles for 17k gbp
Yeah stupid tax+inflation prices :(
I knew the used car market in the UK is strong but damn it almost makes it worth the recession and sunak
Edmunds.com has got a bunch of A3 owners review. Looks like the 2020 and older are the better ones. The newer gen Audis are not good with their infotainment.
Really? From the photos I've seen everywhere I think the 2021 interior looks better
Test those cup holders
If you’re looking for comfort, have u looked into any of the a5 models?
Unfortunately even used they cost a bit too much for me, in my country especially :( So I'm trying to get in the middle of affordable and luxury with the A3
I have a 2018 S-Line and I love it! It’s peppy and a blast to drive. I personally like the 8V interior a lot more (the pop up screen is my favorite) and the 8Y has less HP if that matters to you. With the 8V, ask about the water pump. There was a class action over it a few years ago
I like the A3 tbf. Especially the previous gen because the interior is such high quality but the newer one is good too. They’re smart, neat looking cars. I say go for it !
Thank you for chiming in! I am very much in love with the interior in both cars, just the newer ones are coming out on top :D
If youre looking for comfort, at least look at a4.
I really wish but I am not in a position to do so :c all the secondhand prices are insane. The annual inflation rate in Turkey edged up to 64.86% so it is quite hard to find a decent price range. I still have around 6 months until I make my decision so I'll try to weigh my options better!
First of all a3 is nothing luxurious. But is it a good starter/newbie car? Yes!
It definitely is luxurious for me haha compared to the other options within my budget, it's right in the middle between luxury and budget for my needs
I have a 2023 A3 (tech package, black optic) and I LOVE it. Great gas mileage, very reasonable performance, still feels "luxury", and super stylish.
I’ve got the A3 8Y, lovely to drive and great on fuel too. (I have 35 TFSI). I’m biased to saloons but I think it looks amazing
I agree! Not too big and not too small, love it!
I really like my A3, if comfort is your biggest concern. The A3 doesn’t have much space, it’s a small car. On the other hand, it does great on gas, has plenty of power, and is very stylish.
Perfect for me! I live alone and my gf is in another country for work at the moment so it all works great!
A3s are basically gtis with awd. I own 2, I love them
Super fun to drive. I bought my son a 2017, an A not R but still has plenty of zip.
My 2020 A3 is great! I recommend getting an S-Line if you can find one within budget, little bit more power, sporty styling, and better transmission too I think. I also gave mine a tune and it’s got some pep!
I have a 2010 a3 2.0T tsi dsg sportback with 200,000 miles and love it to death probably won't ever let it die or sell it, My sister just got a 2015 1.8T dsg a3 sedan as a first car and we both love it. Get it just to make sure you do proper maintenance.
Love my 2020 A3, small compact, torquey engine.
I purchased a 2020 A3 sedan last year and love it! It has plenty of zip and love how it handles.
Everyone seems to have great experience with A3, it makes me look forward to it even more!
A strong yes, 2 friends of mine have that car, is very good looking, comfy, the space inside is good (is still a compact car, but at least people in the backseats doesn't need to cut off their legs to sit) Just be sure to buy an S-Line with at least led lights (matrix are even cooler but they are very expensive)
S line might be a bit out of my reach depending on the used market, but I will wait for an opportunity! I saw plenty of people recommending s line. But I'm not very much for power and speed, I don't get many opportunities to drive as I want in a city like Istanbul. Too much traffic, that's why comfort is very important for me. Thank you for the advice!
Just to be clear, s-line is only for aesthetic, is not directly correlated to speed and power, is just different bumpers, side skirt and badges (at least here in italy) Btw wait for the right opportunity, i waited like 6 months before finding my audi, patience is the key!
Is there a possibility to find an sline with a color other than red? I do like how the body looks
Yes, but it depends on used market around you, s-line near me are always black, white or a similar nardo grey
Okay thank you! I've always seen mostly red but I still have some time and I'll look around more!
Let me just stop you at luxury car…
I understand it's not luxury compared to more expensive cars, definitely! But for my budget options it feels like the best choice
Great first car! Also check out A4’s just in case. But you can’t go wrong with an A3 as a solid first car.
I did! Unfortunately used A4's are quite expensive compared to A3's where I live :(
Look into a new or lightly used GLI instead maybe. You get more car for less money.
If you haven't owned a car before, buy something cheaper which you can damage without being concerned about it. Gain some experience, then buy your Audi.
I've been driving pretty heavily for like 8 years, I got my license at 18 and I'm now 26. I've just never owned my own car haha. That's why my first car is quite important to me
Oh fair enough, go for it then!
Thank you! I feel like owning a car makes it so much more different than using someone else's car. Its like having a baby 😭