2024 Audi A3 Review

2024 Audi A3 – Overview

The 2024 Audi A3 may be the smallest sedan in Audi’s U.S. lineup, but it delivers a premium driving experience that feels far more upscale than its size suggests. A recipient of the 2024 Editors’ Choice award, the A3 wears Audi’s signature design language with confidence and offers a well-balanced mix of performance, comfort, and technology. Power comes from a 201-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system is available for added grip.

Inside, the A3 features a snug yet thoughtfully designed cabin with an excellent driving position, high-quality materials, and a modern digital cockpit. Both the digital gauge cluster and central infotainment display are crisp, intuitive, and easy to read. Competing against entry-level luxury sedans like the Acura Integra and BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe, the A3 also faces internal rivalry from the sportier Audi S3, which offers significantly more power at a higher price point. Even so, the A3 strikes a strong balance, making it an appealing entry into the luxury compact segment.

When Is the 2024 Audi A3 Coming Out?

The 2024 Audi A3 is already available in dealerships across the U.S. and Europe. Orders began in late 2023, with wide availability rolling out through early 2024.

What’s New for 2024 Audi A3?

Since its redesign in 2022, the Audi A3 sees only minor updates for 2024. The Black Optic package now features a fresh 18-inch wheel design, while the available HomeLink system—part of the Convenience package, which controls garage doors, gates, and home lighting—is now seamlessly integrated into the rearview mirror for added convenience.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2024 Audi A3 starts at $36,895, with fully equipped models reaching $40,495, depending on trim level and optional features.

The Premium trim maintains its 2024 price, while the Premium Plus rises by a modest $200. Despite the slight increase, we recommend the Premium Plus for its strong value, offering features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, driver memory settings for seats and mirrors, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and passive keyless entry. For enhanced traction and all-weather capability, Quattro all-wheel drive is available on both trims for an additional $2,000.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Audi A3 buyers don’t need to worry about choosing between multiple powertrains: the 201-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is the only option. Front-wheel drive comes standard, while Quattro all-wheel drive is available for those seeking extra traction.

Although the 2024 Audi A3 produces about 17 fewer horsepower than the 228-hp 2020 model and is roughly half a second slower to 60 mph, it compensates with 221 lb-ft of torque available from just 1,600 rpm, giving the car a lively, responsive feel in daily driving. The chassis strikes a balance between playful handling and comfortable ride quality, making commuting enjoyable without feeling like a full-on sports sedan. For drivers craving more performance and sharper reflexes, the 308-hp Audi S3 is the sportier alternative, trimming nearly 2 seconds off the A3’s 6.0-second 0–60 mph time.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The 2024 Audi A3 delivers strong fuel efficiency for a luxury compact sedan, earning EPA estimates of 29 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. Models equipped with Quattro all-wheel drive are rated slightly lower at 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. In real-world testing, however, the AWD A3 exceeded expectations, achieving an impressive 40 mpg on our 75-mph highway test route. For official EPA ratings and more detailed fuel-economy information, visit the EPA website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 2024 Audi A3 interior blends modern technology with classic European sedan styling, though results are somewhat mixed. The driving position is excellent, and available sport seats feature quilted surfaces with faux-suede accents, while decorative stitching across the dashboard adds a refined touch. On the downside, the quirky shift “flipper,” multi-function audio control, and extensive hard-plastic surfaces detract from the otherwise upscale feel.

Driver and front-passenger comfort is ample, but storage solutions are limited, leaving little room for innovation or flexibility. Still, the 10.9 cubic feet of trunk space is practical for daily errands, a grocery run, or a weekend getaway, meeting the needs of most compact luxury sedan owners.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2024 Audi A3 comes standard with a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, upgradeable to a 12.3-inch display via the Technology package on the Premium Plus trim. This package also adds navigation, allows the map to appear directly in the instrument cluster, and includes features such as traffic-sign recognition, a Bang & Olufsen audio system, and six months of Audi Connect Plus with 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity.

Unlike other recent Audi models, the A3 avoids the dual-screen layout that relocates climate controls and drive-mode switches to a digital interface. However, the single-screen setup also means the new Audi app store, which offers apps like Spotify and Amazon Music, is unavailable in the A3. Tech-focused buyers seeking these advanced features may prefer stepping up to the Audi A4 or other models in the lineup.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2024 Audi A3 comes well-equipped with driver-assistance technology, ensuring a strong focus on safety. Standard features across all models include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights.

Available options expand the safety suite further, offering blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear emergency braking, front and rear parking sensors, park assist, and adaptive cruise control. These systems enhance both convenience and confidence on the road. For detailed crash-test ratings and safety scores, visit the (NHTSA) and (IIHS) websites.

Key Safety Features:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection

• Standard lane-departure warning

• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The 2024 Audi A3 comes with a standard warranty package that is competitive but not exceptional. Both the limited and powertrain warranties cover 4 years or 50,000 miles, aligning with similar offerings from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. However, some rivals provide added value in this area: the Cadillac CT4 offers longer powertrain coverage, while the BMW 2-Series includes three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance—something Audi does not provide for the A3.

Key Warranty Details:

• Limited Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• Powertrain Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: None

2024 Audi A3 Specifications

Final Verdict

The 2024 Audi A3 is an excellent choice for those seeking an entry-level luxury sedan that blends efficiency, performance, and technology. While space is limited in the back, the A3 delivers a premium experience at a relatively affordable price point. Against rivals from BMW and Mercedes, the A3 shines with fuel efficiency, sharp design, and Audi’s renowned build quality.

If you want a luxury compact that doesn’t feel compromised, the 2024 Audi A3 deserves a spot on your shortlist.

2024 Audi A3 Videos