Main Navigation beebs
Skip to main content

2017 Audi A3 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
6 photos

Audi A3 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Deluxe interior design and finish
  • Pitch-perfect powertrain delivery
  • Engaging driving experience

Cons

  • Compact trunk dimensions
  • Second-row seating is better suited to kids

Mileage (EPA estimate)

22 city, 30 highway, 25 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

6 photos
Price
Year

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.

Upscale comfort and performance

If you're looking for a vehicle with refinement, power, and comfort, the 2017 Audi A3 may be right for you. This luxury compact sedan comes with great powertrain options and a comfortable, upscale cabin with plenty of convenience features. The 2017 A3 also boasts numerous driver aids, as well as an elegant and stylish exterior. With seating for up to five passengers and ample cargo space, the 2017 Audi A3 is a convenient solution for your commute, long-distance trips, and family vacations.

All Audi A3 years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Audi A3 generation from 2013 to 2026

What is new for the 2017 Audi A3?

  • Trim Discontinued: Sport trim is no longer available.
  • Standard Equipment on all models now includes a larger touchscreen infotainment system.
  • New Equipment: All models feature enhanced safety technology with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
  • Improved fuel efficiency ratings for the base engine by 5%.

2017 Audi A3 trims

Curious how Audi A3 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Premium:

  • Comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, satellite radio, a seven-inch infotainment system, leather upholstery, and more.

  • View all Audi A3 Premiums in stock

Premium Plus

Prestige

  • Includes rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, navigation, active lane assist, premium audio system, and more.

  • View all Audi A3 Prestige in stock

Audi A3 photos

5 reasons to buy the 2017 Audi A3

1. Refined interior

2017 Audi A3 Review: 5 Reasons to Buy #1 | CarMax

The 2017 Audi A3 boasts an upscale interior with high-end materials, as well as amenities designed to make every ride enjoyable. Leather upholstery and dual-zone automatic climate control are standard, as is a power-adjustable driver's seat. A seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system and Bluetooth® connectivity provide enhanced communication and entertainment options. A panoramic sunroof is also standard.

2. Dynamic performance

2017 Audi A3 Review: 5 Reasons to Buy #2 | CarMax

Another highlight of the 2017 Audi A3 is its performance. The front-wheel drive model is powered by a standard turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine paired with a seven-speed manual transmission, producing 186 hp and delivering a dynamic ride. This powertrain is designed for a high level of responsiveness, allowing for some exciting drives. Despite the powerful engine, the 2017 Audi A3 manages to maintain low noise levels inside the cabin, so you can expect a pleasant ride in the city as well as on the highway.

3. Lots of standard tech features

2017 Audi A3 Review: 5 Reasons to Buy #3 | CarMax

The number of standard tech features on the 2017 Audi A3 is also impressive. These include various driver aids, such as a forward collision mitigation system with automatic emergency braking, traction and stability control, and antilock brakes. In addition, the 2017 A3 is equipped with the Audi Pre Sense® basic system, which takes automated action when it detects problems on the road.

4. Attractive exterior

2017 Audi A3 Review: 5 Reasons to Buy #4 | CarMax

The 2017 Audi A3 boasts an appealing exterior design that may turn heads. An aggressive and imposing front end highlighted by a new grille leaves a great first impression. LED taillights are standard, matching the redesigned headlamps. The revised front and rear bumpers further emphasize the A3's aerodynamic look and feel.

5. Ample room for passenger and cargo

2017 Audi A3 Review: 5 Reasons to Buy #5 | CarMax

The 2017 Audi A3 has seating for five, with 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 35.1 inches in the back. In the trunk, cargo volume measures 12.3 cu ft—that's enough room for a couple of large suitcases, some sporting equipment, or a few grocery bags. This kind of space makes the A3 a convenient solution for your daily needs around town, as well as long-distance trips with your whole crew.

Similar vehicles

If you're interested in the 2017 Audi A3, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.

Acura ILX

This stylish luxury compact car comes with an upscale interior and plenty of passenger and cargo room. The 2017-2019 Acura ILX is powered by a 201 hp 2.4L four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is equipped with lots of standard tech features. It's a dynamic sedan with a sporty ride that's great for out-of-town trips, thanks to a roomy and comfortable interior. The ILX is also well suited to driving in urban settings due to its compact size.

Some of the most noteworthy features on 2017-2019 Acura ILX models include:

  • Power moonroof

  • 17-inch alloy wheels

  • Power-adjustable driver's seat

  • Synthetic leather upholstery

Show more similar vehicles

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.

Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.2 out of 5

5 customer reviews
The 2017 Audi A3 exhibits strong performance combined with fuel efficiency, sharp handling, and appealing technology. While maintenance costs and restricted rear seating might deter some, its ride quality and reliability stand out for most. However, a minority raises concerns about mechanical issues.
3
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Audi A3 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Audi A3 15th out of 25 among Luxury Compact Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Audi A3

Audi A3 features and specs

Prestige 2D Convertible 2WD

Standard Features

  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Power Locks
  • Power Windows
  • Air Conditioning
  • Rear Defroster
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • ABS Brakes
  • Leather Seats
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • Side Airbags
  • Rear View Camera
  • Parking Sensors
  • Smart Key
  • Soft Top
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Android Auto
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • CD Audio
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bang & Olufsen Audio
  • Navigation System
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Rear Spoiler

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

186

Torque (ft-lbs)

221

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

13.2

Wheelbase

102.2"

Overall length

174.3"

Width

70.7"

Height

55.5"

Leg room

F 41.2"/R 31.9"

Head room

F 37.4"/R 36.3"

Front tires

P225/40HR18

Rear tires

P225/40HR18

Seating capacity

4

Transmission

Automatic

2017 Audi A3 FAQ

More about the 2017 Audi A3

2017 Audi A3 Review: Available Colors | CarMax

Interior colors:

  • Black

  • Chestnut Brown

  • Rock Gray

Exterior colors:

  • Brilliant Black

  • Cosmos Blue Metallic

  • Florett Silver Metallic

  • Glacier White Metallic

  • Ibis White

  • Monsoon Gray Metallic

  • Mythos Black Metallic

  • Nano Gray Metallic

  • Tango Red Metallic

Interior description

The 2017 Audi A3's interior is lined with upscale materials, including leather, soft plastics, and chrome and aluminum accents. A power-adjustable driver's seat and panoramic sunroof are standard on all models. The Premium Plus trim adds heated front seats and a power-adjustable passenger seat, while the top-level Prestige trim includes LED ambient interior lighting.

Performance

When equipped with all-wheel drive and a 220 hp 2.0L four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the 2017 Audi A3 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new) and achieve a top speed of 130 mph. With this powertrain, the 2017 Audi A3 gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined.

Emissions Info

According to EPA estimates, the front-wheel drive 2017 Audi A3's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 303 grams per mile.

Research other vehicles


* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.​ By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.

We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.