A3 success story

The A3 has a 16-year history of success at Audi. The first generation of the model series, which debuted in 1996 as a three-door model, created an entirely new market segment – the premium compact class. The A3 sets new standards with its sporty character, high-quality workmanship and optional quattro all-wheel drive. In 1999, the five-door model and the sporty S3 rounded out the line-up. Audi sold about 880,000 units of this first model series.

The second generation, which followed in 2003, was even more successful and increased total sales to about 1.8 million units. In the competition that now developed, the A3 impressively dominated the premium compact class. The brand with the four rings broadly diversified its model line-up with the versatile Sportback (2004), the dynamic S3 (2006), the emotional Cabriolet (2008) and the high-performance sports model, the RS 3 (2011). Over its production life to date, the A3 model series has represented over 20 percent of total Audi sales, establishing itself as a steadfast pillar of the brand’s success.

The equipment, data, and prices specified refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.