QUALITY | 7 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
Some coarse-surface tire thrum is noticeable on base models, and it rises with the available 18-inch tires.
Consumer Guide
4.5 more cubic feet of cargo space (19.5 total) compared with that of a five-door Golf, an advantage that would be better appreciated if the split-folding rear seats would fold completely flat
Car and Driver
rear-seat room is a bit limited
Motor Trend
traveling at 65 mph or 70 mph, the A3 TDI still had plenty of boost to pass other cars or climb hills
CNET
Up front you get sport seats with leather and Alcantara trim, and while the rear seat is a bit tight, it's definitely usable.
MSN Autos
Cargo space is somewhat disappointing for those who think that the hatchback/wagon layout guarantees heaps of space, but it is versatile. The backseats are 60/40-split and fold forward, nearly flat, though cargo can't be piled in very high or it interferes with outward visibility.
The A3 has an attractive, premium-feel interior and levels of refinement that are better than most other small cars. However road noise—and the thrum of the rather low-profile tires—can be intrusive on coarse surfaces, and ride quality with the standard suspension can be somewhat stiff.
Conclusion
The 2011 Audi A3 isn't quite up to luxury-car standards of refinement inside; but its appointments are a bit step up from budget hatches.
