2026 Audi A3 Review

2026 Audi A3 – Overview

The Audi A3 is the brand’s smallest and most affordable model in the U.S., making it an appealing choice for buyers seeking a smooth, fuel-efficient, and tech-forward luxury subcompact sedan. Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces a modest 201 horsepower, which pairs seamlessly with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission to accelerate the 2026 Audi A3 from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 6.0 seconds.

While the steering feel could be sharper, the A3 handles confidently, delivering an enjoyable and composed driving experience. Space is limited in the back seat, though, so four adults may find it a bit snug.

Expert Tip: If you crave more performance, the sportier S3 or high-octane RS3 offer significant thrills—but be ready for a steep jump in price.

When Is the 2026 Audi A3 Coming Out?

Audi has confirmed that the 2026 A3 will be available in dealerships starting late summer 2025, with pre-orders already open in select markets. Early production models are expected to reach customers by August 2025, with global availability rolling out through the rest of the year.

What’s New for 2026 Audi A3?

Audi is keeping the A3 largely unchanged for 2026, with no significant updates expected.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2026 Audi A3 is expected to start around $39,500, rising to about $42,500 depending on trim and options.

For the best combination of features and value, we recommend the Premium model with the optional Convenience package. This setup delivers many of the highlights of the Premium Plus trim—like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, driver memory seat and mirror settings, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and proximity keyless entry—without the higher price tag.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

• Engine: 201-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder

• Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic

• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive

The 2026 Audi A3 comes with a single powertrain option: a 201-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. All-wheel drive is standard.

The A3 offers a playful, responsive driving experience that makes daily commuting enjoyable, with a comfortable ride over most road surfaces. It’s not a full-fledged sports sedan, though. For drivers seeking more performance, the 328-hp S3 shaves 1.8 seconds off the A3’s 0–60 mph time and delivers noticeably sharper reflexes.

0–60-MPH Times

• C/D 60-mph Test (2022 A3): 6.0 seconds

The last A3 we tested, a 2022 model, produced 221 lb-ft of torque and accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds—slightly slower than competitors like the Cadillac CT4 (5.8 seconds) and Mercedes CLA250 (5.6 seconds). The 2026 A3 is similar, now generating 236 lb-ft of torque, which could trim roughly a tenth of a second off the 0–60 time.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

• C/D 75-mph Highway Test: 40 mpg

• EPA City Rating: 24 mpg

• EPA Highway Rating: 34 mpg

The EPA hasn’t released official fuel-economy figures for the 2026 Audi A3, but we don’t expect significant changes. The 2025 model is rated at 24 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined.

In real-world testing, the all-wheel-drive A3 exceeded expectations, achieving an impressive 40 mpg on C/D’s 200-mile, 75-mph highway route. For the latest official numbers, you can check the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

First Row: The 2026 Audi A3 cabin delivers a premium feel, though some hard-plastic trim is noticeable in certain areas. Up front, the seating position is excellent, and the leather-wrapped seats are plush. The driver-focused design angles the dashboard, touchscreen, and climate controls toward the person behind the wheel for intuitive access.

Second Row: Rear seating is suitable for children or shorter adults, but taller passengers may find legroom and overall space somewhat cramped.

Cargo Capacity: The trunk offers a modest 10.9 cubic feet of space—enough for groceries or a weekend’s worth of luggage, but not much more.

Infotainment and Connectivity

• Infotainment: 10.1-inch touchscreen

• Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto

• Audio Systems: 6-speaker stereo (standard); 15-speaker Sonos system (optional)

The base 2026 Audi A3 comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Upgrading to the Tech package—available only on the Premium Plus trim—adds a 12.3-inch cluster capable of displaying navigation and other information in the center of the screen. The system is intuitive and visually appealing, and it supports third-party apps such as Spotify and YouTube.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2026 Audi A3 comes equipped with several standard driver-assistance technologies, including automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional optional features enhance safety and convenience, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Other available systems include rear-cross-traffic alert, rear emergency braking, front and rear parking sensors, and park assist.

For detailed crash-test results, refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

• Standard Safety Features: automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, automatic high-beam headlights

• Optional Safety Features: adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The 2026 Audi A3 offers standard warranty coverage similar to its BMW and Mercedes-Benz competitors. Unlike the Cadillac CT4, which provides longer powertrain coverage, or the BMW 2-Series, which includes three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance, the A3 does not offer any free maintenance.

• Limited Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• Powertrain Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• Complimentary Maintenance: None

2026 Audi A3 Specifications

Final Verdict

The 2026 Audi A3 remains a standout in the compact luxury segment. With sporty handling, a premium interior, and modern technology, it appeals to both driving enthusiasts and luxury-minded commuters. The mild-hybrid powertrain improves efficiency without compromising performance, and the expanded safety suite enhances peace of mind.

2026 Audi A3 Videos