In crowded European cities, small, space-efficient vehicles are very popular because of their versatility, fuel-efficiency and nimble nature. These vehicles exist in America as well, but they are not typically offered by luxury automakers as it's assumed that Americans associate compact vehicles with cheapness. One vehicle meant to break that tradition is the Audi A3.
Introduced a decade ago in Europe and brought to the United States in 2006, the A3 is Audi's entry-level model for the North American market. Roughly a foot shorter and about 400 pounds lighter than an A4 2.0T Avant Quattro, the front-drive Audi A3 Sportback presents a strong argument for buying a bargain sport wagon, provided one goes easy on the options. With the same powerful turbocharged engine as its bigger brother, the A3 2.0T performs like a sport sedan that happens to have a maximum cargo capacity of 56 cubic feet, just 3 cubes less than its larger sibling. And just because this is Audi's entry-level car doesn't mean the company cuts corners on quality. The cabin's design and materials are up to the lofty standards that Audi has set for the industry, meaning everything fits tightly, moves with precision and looks and feels top-shelf.
Slowly but surely, small European wagons are filtering into the States, so the Audi A3 does have some competition. But those who appreciate the distinct German flavor of Audi, meaning one of engineering excellence combined with an upscale cabin, will find plenty to like in the A3 Sportback.
Current Audi A3
