3 Reasons MotorTrend Loves the 2023 Audi A3 (And 2 Reasons They Don’t)
The 2023 Audi A3 has gotten a much needed update, and with it comes a new style and more tech than ever before. Evaluating the smallest Audi model means comparing it to both the competition and previous models, and overall the A3 is setting a high bar. That said, there are a few things about the newest compact Audi that aren’t perfect, despite an overall positive experience.
3 pros of the 2023 Audi A3
There are a lot of things to love in the 2023 Audi A3, but the latest update has a handful of updates that are truly impressive.
A high-tech interior makes the A3 a stunner
Hop behind the wheel of the 2023 Audi A3 and a series of screens give the cabin a high-tech feel.
The digital instrument cluster is a particularly sharp look, putting a wealth of information all in one place. The customizable setup offers plenty of options for tracking performance, efficiency, and even full-screen navigation. And while we’d like it to have a lower brightness setting for nighttime drives, overall the display is a nice update over the previous analog gauges.
In addition, the new infotainment system is crisp and simplified. With fewer menus and more intuitive voice activation, finding the right settings is a breeze in the new A3. Fortunately, the smallest new Audi doesn’t use the digital climate display of other models, which makes adjusting temperature on the fly a breeze.
Smooth power delivery
Motortrend also appreciates the new version of the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. While previous models had just 188 horsepower, the 2023 version offers 201 ponies and 221 pound-feet of torque. Still, front-wheel drive models also improve fuel economy over the 2022 A3 at 29 mpg city and 39 mpg highway.
A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission offers smooth acceleration, and paddle shifters add another level of engagement for those who want it. Reliability should also be better for 2023, as the legendary 2.0-liter turbo enters its 15th year of production.
Updated styling puts the 2023 Audi A3 ahead of the pack
With an updated grille and Audi’s matrix-style LED lighting, the 2023 Audi A3 is quite a head turner. While models like the Acura Integra and BMW 2 Series look fine, the A3 is easily the best looking car of the bunch.
2 reasons to skip the Audi A3
While there are plenty of positives about the 2023 Audi A3, there are still a few drawbacks to Audi’s smallest sedan.
Lacks standard safety equipment
While both the Audi A3 and Acura Integra offer forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, the Japanese luxury car also had blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. In the Audi, these are optional extras despite the higher price tag.
A high price for the size
With just 10 cubic feet of trunk space and relative lack of advanced safety tech, the Audi A3 is one of the most expensive subcompact luxury cars. At a base price of over $35,000, there are better options for the money.
Despite a high price, the A3 is an attractive choice
Without a doubt, the high price of the 2023 Audi A3 makes it an expensive option, but the overall quality and style may be worth the cash. In-car tech and a satisfying driver experience make the A3 worth a look, even next to its lower-priced competition.
