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2012 Audi A3 Wagon

Summary

Provided by NADAguides.com

The 2012 Audi A3 is a 5-door hatchback available with a standard or diesel engine. The standard 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivers 200 hp and 207-lb ft of torque. Fuel mileage falls between an EPA estimated 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, depending on the selection of a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. For those who covet superior gas mileage, Audi offers an optional 2.0-liter 4-cylinder TDI diesel engine that produces 140 hp and 236 lb-ft of toque. Paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the diesel engine gets an EPA estimated 30 mpg city and 42 mpg highway. Features include LED lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, panorama sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, sport front seats, power driver seat, navigation, hands-free phone capabilities, BOSE� sound system, and iPod� interface. Safety is comprised of dual-stage front airbags, side thorax airbags, head curtain airbags, electronic stability control, anti-lock brake system, electronic brake-pressure distribution, and brake assist. The A3 is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty.

Benefits of Driving a 2012 Audi A3 Wagon

For drivers wanting utility and luxury in a smaller, greener package, the A3 fits the bill. The 'Sportback' 5-door body style offers the spaciousness of an SUV on a platform shared with its Volkswagen cousins the Golf and Jetta. The TDI clean diesel engine is capable of 42 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA, but the direct-inject gasoline engine gets 28 mpg on the highway itself. High-end touches such as leather seating and a 10-speaker stereo are standard equipment on both Premium and Premium Plus trim levels.

What's new for 2012?

Following a minor interior and exterior facelift last year, the Audi A3 carries over relatively unchanged for 2012.

Model Strengths

Entry-level luxury
efficient diesel available
a small car with lots of utility

Model Review

There are two Audi A3 engines available for 2012. Both are 2.0L 4-cylinders, but one is a TDI clean diesel engine, while the other is a direct-inject gasoline engine. The diesel engine can make 140 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, plus a 30-mpg city and 42-mpg highway fuel rating. The turbo-charged gasoline engine trades some of that green credibility for performance, with 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. It still manages 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.

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