The 2020 Audi A3 delivers genuine luxury in a compact package, starting at $33,300 for the Premium trim[1]. With EPA-rated fuel economy of 30 mpg combined and a responsive 2.0L turbocharged engine, it offers a compelling mix of efficiency and driving enjoyment[2].
Edmunds rates it 4.1 out of 5 stars, praising its "good balance of a comfortable ride and sporty handling"[3]. But the A3 isn't perfect. Limited rear seat and cargo space may frustrate those needing a practical family sedan.
| Trim Level | MSRP | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Premium | $33,300 | 18" wheels, leather, heated seats, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Premium Plus | $36,500 | Audi pre sense, Bang & Olufsen audio, LED headlights |
| Final Edition Package | +$2,500 | Flat-bottom steering wheel, sport seats, contrast stitching |
The Premium trim serves as the base model for 2020 after Audi eliminated the previous Titanium entry trim[4]. Standard equipment includes keyless start, Audi Drive Select drive modes, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking[4]. That's a strong value proposition for shoppers comparing other Audi sedans.
For buyers wanting more, the Premium Plus adds a power driver seat with memory, Audi side assist blind-spot monitoring, and parking sensors[5]. The optional Final Edition package gives the A3 a more aggressive personality with sport seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel[6].
The 2020 A3 achieves solid fuel efficiency for a luxury sedan. The front-wheel-drive model earns EPA ratings of 27 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined[2].
Opting for the quattro all-wheel-drive system reduces those numbers slightly. The A3 Cabriolet quattro, for example, returns 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway[2]. Edmunds estimates monthly fuel costs around $116 based on typical driving patterns[3].
Real-world mileage depends on driving style and conditions. Owners on forums generally report hitting EPA estimates during highway cruising but seeing lower numbers in stop-and-go traffic. The A3 uses regular gasoline, which helps keep fuel costs manageable compared to premium-requiring competitors.
The 2020 Audi A3 comes equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. The 40 TFSI powertrain in front-wheel-drive models delivers solid thrust for daily driving and highway merging[3].
Step up to the 45 TFSI engine with quattro, and output jumps to 228 horsepower at 4,500 rpm with 258 lb-ft of torque available from just 1,600 rpm[7]. That low-end torque makes the A3 feel quicker than raw numbers suggest. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5.4 seconds in quattro form[7].
Power routes through Audi's 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. Car and Driver praises the A3's "spirited handling" and "perky turbocharged engines"[8]. The chassis strikes a nice balance between comfort and engagement—firm enough to be fun on twisty roads, but compliant enough for daily commuting.
For those wanting more punch, Audi offers the S3 performance variant with 300 horsepower from the same 2.0L platform[9].
The 2020 Audi A3 earned a 5-star overall rating in Euro NCAP crash testing, scoring 89% in Adult Occupant Protection[10]. The sedan performed well in frontal, side, and rear impact scenarios.
Standard safety technology includes:
The A3's Safety Assist features scored 73% in Euro NCAP evaluation, with the testing body reviewing lane assist, speed limiter functionality, and the fatigue detection system[10]. The IIHS tested the A3 across multiple crash configurations, with results available on their rating database[11].
One frustration: Audi reserves many driver-assistance features for the options list. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control require either the Premium Plus trim or additional packages[8].
Edmunds' editorial team spent a year with an A3 2.0T Quattro, logging 20,000 miles. Their verdict? "Although the A3 is Audi's entry-level sedan, it's a proper luxury car"[3]. They praised front seat comfort, a quiet cabin, and high-quality materials throughout.
Space is where the A3 compromises. Rear seat legroom feels tight for adult passengers, and the trunk measures just 12.3 cubic feet with all seats in place[3]. The quattro drivetrain eats into cargo capacity further—one owner noted it "eats up 2-3 cu.ft. of trunk space"[12].
If you need to carry more than two adults regularly or haul significant cargo, the larger A4 makes more sense. The A3 excels as a commuter car or second vehicle.
The 2020 A3 comes with Audi's 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty[3]. Understanding how many miles an Audi can last depends heavily on maintenance habits.
Edmunds notes that out-of-warranty maintenance can be "fairly expensive"[3]. Budget accordingly if you plan to keep the car beyond the warranty period. Regular service items like proper engine oil and quality tires help maximize longevity.
Owner reviews on Cars.com skew overwhelmingly positive, with multiple buyers rating the A3 5 out of 5 across comfort, interior quality, performance, and reliability[13]. One owner called it their "favorite car now improved," while another described it as "the best vehicle I have owned"[13].
That said, potential buyers should research Audi A3 years to avoid to understand model-year-specific issues.
What Works
What Doesn't
The 2020 Audi A3 fits buyers who want genuine luxury without full-size sedan dimensions or pricing. At $33,300 to $36,500, it undercuts larger Audi models while delivering the brand's signature build quality and driving dynamics[1].
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