First Impressions

A trend not just limited to mankind, sedans have gotten noticeably larger as the years go by. So for those looking to downsize, the 2015 Audi A3 should be in high consideration.

Riding on the MQB platform shared throughout the Volkswagen Group, this newest A3 is, quite obviously, a sedan, and replaces the current 5 door A3 sportback. It also is a direct competitor to the hot-selling Mercedes-Benz CLA250.

A great mix of family practicality and sporty DNA helps the A3 achieve impressive balance; its compact design offers good interior and storage volume, while retaining composure around town.

Gone is the CVT in front wheel drive Audi’s of old. Both the front drive 1.8 liter, and quattro all-wheel drive 2.0 liter receive a standard and smooth shifting six speed dual-clutch transmission.

PATRICK LUCAS: In terms of Audi performance, this certainly isn’t an R8 or and RS5, but the two turbo charged engines…they give you a nice little boost; this thing is so tight and compact and light, that you can just fling this thing into corners, and it just keeps composed. It’s pretty impressive.

JOHN DAVIS: Audi hopes the A3’s technology will also be a selling point; and on that front, it’s got an impressive array of safety and convenience features worthy of note.

Using Audi’s existing Audi Connect suite of apps and services, the A3 becomes the first car to use 4G LTE data service. And an updated MMI interface gains a handwriting recognition function.

On sale now, the 2015 Audi A3 starts at a CLA-rivalling $30,000 for the front-drive, 1.8 liter. 2.0 liter quattro A3’s add close to three grand.