2007 Audi A3 Review

What reviews like:
In reviews for the Audi A3, above average handling is a high point. Most reviews also like the Audi's exterior design and roomy interior. Safety features and control set-up are other positive aspects. Several reviews say the Audi is just a fun, sporty compact wagon.

What reviews don't like:

The main downfall of the A3 is the price, which increases quickly when options are added. Some reviews say rear-seat legroom is tight, while others say large drivers might not be that comfortable either. A couple of reviews also found the clutch to be a little jerky, but most say the Audi A3 absorbs bumps pretty well. One downside is that the Audi requires premium fuel. The Audi A3 is based on the same platform as the VW Beetle and Jetta, which have both had reliability problems.

EPA fuel economy estimate: 21 to 25 mpg/city, 27 to 32 mpg/highway, depending on engine

2007 Audi A3 review highlights

Overall, most reviews say that the Audi A3 is a fun-to-drive, sporty compact hatchback. Most say it's also a nice-looking car both inside and out, with a wide selection of high-end options available. However, those options quickly add to the base price, pushing the Audi A3 into the premium compact class, where it's bettered by Audi's own A4 (starting at *est. $28,340). Long-term reliability might be an issue, since the Audi A3 is based on the same platform as the Volkswagen Jetta and Beetle, both of which have had a below-average reliability record.

We found a fair number of reviews for the 2007 Audi A3, but most of these reviews aren't very critical. They mainly cover features and high points, rather than offering a balanced critique. The Audi A3 was all-new for the 2006 model year, so some of the more detailed reviews are actually for the 2006 Audi. The most pointed review is from CarCritic.com, which says the Audi A3 is a fun car, but that long-term reliability might be an issue. Edmunds.com and Automobile.com both offer longer, more detailed reviews that focus more on features and drive quality. Reviews at AutoChannel.com and TopSpeed.com are not as useful.

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*In order of credibility (see our Ratings Criteria).

1. CarCritic.com
2007 Audi A3
Don Vorderman

CarCritic.com is different from other reviews. Rather than going into detail about performance and features, Don Vorderman focuses mainly on long-term predicted reliability based on owner surveys. He notes that while the Audi A3 is fun and loaded with high-tech features, it is based on the same platform as the VW Jetta and New Beetle, both of which have a spotty reliability track record. For that reason, the Audi A3 is a good -- but not great -- choice.

2. Edmunds.com
Audi A3 Review
Editors of Edmunds.com

This review for the Audi A3 isn't very critical, mainly covering features rather than performance. Editors do say that the Audi is a good option for an entry-level sport wagon, with good handling and driver feedback.

3. Automobile Magazine
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2007 Audi A3 3.2
Editors of Automobile Magazine
May 2006

Editors at Automobile Magazine like the Audi A3's interior and engine, but editors didn't like the jerky clutch response and high price. Still, the general view of the A3 is positive. The flaw of this review is that it is far too short, offering only a few paragraphs of information.

4. Consumer Reports
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Audi A3
Editors of Consumer Reports

Editors at Consumer Reports tested the 2006 version of the Audi A3, but they haven’t yet covered the 2007 Audi A3. Even so, the 2007 is relatively unchanged, so this review is still helpful. Along with a road test, editors include a section on safety features and presumed long-term reliability. Test results are well reasoned and easy to read, but you must be a subscriber to read this report.

5. Consumer Guide.com
2007 Audi A3 Road Test
Editors of ConsumerGuide.com
Nov. 2006

The reviews at Consumer Guide look very statistical compared to other car reviews. Consumer Guide breaks down their road test into sections and gives each section a score to compare against class average. The Audi A3 is "recommended," but it fails to receive a "best buy" designation. According to editors, high points of the Audi A3 are handling and controls/materials, while the single negative of the car is poor rear-seat legroom.

6. Cars.com
2007 Audi A3
Staff of Cars.com
June 2006

Reviews at Cars.com aren't comparative, but they are detailed and easy to read. The review is based on hands-on performance testing and analysis. High points include the Audi A3's handling and ride quality. The downside is limited room in the front of the vehicle for larger drivers and very high windows, which can affect visibility.

7. AutoChannel.com
What a Woman Wants Behind the Wheel
Donna Vissing
Sept. 25, 2006

This review actually covers two vehicles: the Audi A3 and the Audi A4 Avant. Reviewer Donna Vissing comments on the Audi A3's looks, features and safety aspects. Limiting the usefulness of this report is a lack of criticism, as well as a lack of detail. However, this is helpful for offering a non-traditional viewpoint.

8. TopSpeed.com
2007 Audi A3
Simona Alina
Sept. 2006

TopSpeed.com includes a lengthy description of the Audi A3's better points, focusing on its sporty style. Handling is said to be excellent. The interior is roomy and well designed, and the exterior is elegant. Unfortunately, this review is entirely non-critical.

Also see full report: Economy Cars