2012 Audi A3 Sedan

Looking for an affordable used luxury car? The 2012 Audi A3 sedan might just be what you need.
Written by Tiffany Leung
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
The 2012 Audi A3 sedan is a well-rounded luxury sedan that has long topped the list of best used cars to buy. If you’re looking for a dynamic driving experience, upscale interior, and adequate reliability, the A3 is a good choice at a reasonable price. 
If you’re looking for the specs and features of the 2012 Audi A3 sedan,
Jerry
, the trusted broker app that helps drivers save on
car insurance
, is here to help. We’ll give you our unbiased analysis of this used luxury compact car and some tips on lowering
Audi A3 insurance costs

How much is a 2012 Audi A3 sedan?

The 2012 Audi A3 compact sedan had a starting MSRP of $27,270, but can now be had for a much lower price. Kelly Blue Book estimates the fair market value of a 2012 A3 starting at $10,000
The A3 2.0T Premium typically costs the least while the 2.0 TFSI Quattro should cost the most. However, depending on the supply and demand, higher trim levels could be less expensive in the used car market.
Keep in mind that pricing estimates are based on the base model without any options added in good condition. The actual prices for listings you find will highly depend on the condition of the vehicle and your location. Getting a fixer-upper can help you save some money if you’re planning to tinker with the car, or you can splurge on a find that already has all the options you want.

Is a 2012 Audi A3 a good buy?

The A3 is one of the best compact cars from Audi and is based on the same platform as the VW Golf. So is a used 2012 A3 worth splurging on for the four-ringed badge?
The A3 lives up to its luxury-branded price tag with its sleeker sheet metal, more luxurious interior, premium options, and overall better driving experience. If you want a prestige ride without the high price tag, the A3 is a great choice for a used luxury car. 

Reliability

Audis once had a well-below-average reliability reputation, but the 2012 A3 breaks through this mediocrity. While RepairPal gives it a 3.5/5.0 rating (higher than the average Audi rating), it ranks 4th out of 17 luxury compact cars of the same model year. On the other hand, the 2012 Audi A3’s quality and reliability are rated a great 81/100 on J.D. Power.
The most commonly reported problems with the 2012 A3 are:
  • The engine light illuminating due to a failed high-pressure fuel pump
  • Decreased power and fuel economy due to carbon build-up
  • Loss of power due to turn rubber valve
If you buy a 2012 A3, check for the above issues when you test-drive the car or see if there is any history of repairs that addressed the issues. This will give you an idea of potential repair costs if you buy the car.
RECOMMENDED
Compare auto insurance policies
No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms
Find insurance savings

Speed and performance

The 2012 A3 is offered in two powertrain options:
  • 2.0-liter inter-cooled turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline
  • 2.0-liter TDI turbocharged clean diesel
The gas engine with front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard on the lower trims with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Quattro A3 has all-wheel-drive and S Tronic automatic transmission. The turbodiesel engine option is only available with an automatic and front-wheel drive configuration.
The A3 delivers excellent driving dynamics with its masterfully engineered powertrain, refined suspension, and excellent braking systems. This luxury sedan brings a remarkable driving experience with its crisp and responsive handling, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a peppy everyday driver.

Fuel economy

The fuel economy of a vehicle is important, especially with the rising gas prices. Unfortunately, most of the 2012 A3 models require premium gasoline and with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined city/highway driving, fuel costs can add up quickly.
You'll get much better gas mileage from the
diesel engine option over the gas one
if you chance upon one available on the market. The diesel A3 has an impressive EPA rating of 32 mpg for combined city/highway driving. In other words, you can save more than $400 a year on fuel costs!

Interior and comfort

The
2012 Audi A3 interior
is the perfect blend of utility and comfort. Its upscale cabin exemplifies quality workmanship and a true luxury car experience
The A3 comes standard with a power-adjustable leather driver seat and lumbar support for maximum driving comfort. Although the seats are placed low, the leather upholstery, supportive cushioning, and adequate legroom make for a comfortable ride. However, taller passengers may find that there isn’t quite as much headroom thanks to the sloped roof.
The most loved feature of this five-door sedan is the versatility of the interior. The A3 can seat up to five but the split rear seats can be easily folded down for more cargo space when needed.
Other standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control, tilt and telescoping steering column, and a 10-speaker stereo system. There are also additional options you may want to look out for, such as the dark walnut trim, upgraded power seats, moonroof, navigation with a six-CD changer, and two SD card slots. 

Safety

While the 2012 A3 does not have a rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awards it the highest Good rating from its crash test results. 
In addition to safety features like the anti-lock brakes, stability control, and anti-whiplash head restraints, the A3 also comes with standard active safety features including:
  • Electronic stability program (ESP)
  • Full-time traction control (ASR)
  • Electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist
  • Electronic differential lock
For extra safety, you can find out if the used 2012 A3 you are looking at has the optional rear side airbags added. 
Keep in mind that the 2012 Audi A3 had two recalls involving the airbags and the diesel fuel system. Be sure to check that these recalls have been addressed before purchasing a used 2012 A3. 

How to save on Audi insurance

The biggest disadvantage of owning a luxury sedan like the Audi A3 is the high insurance cost—especially if you choose a higher trim. Luckily, you can still find savings for the coverage you want with the
Jerry
app. 
Just download the
licesned insurance broker super app
and Jerry can compare rates from over 55 top insurance providers to find you policies that best fit your vehicle and driver profile at the best price. On average, Jerry users save over $800 per year on car insurance! 
Jerry
is an awesome tool to find rates personalized to your specific needs! I’m literally still sitting at the dealership and already finalized my new insurance so I can drive my new car off the lot.” —Charity R.
RECOMMENDED
Jerry automatically checks if you are paying the lowest price for your insurance, for free.
Instantly compare top insurance companies
No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms
What insurance do you want to compare?
Reduce your monthly car payments in minutes?
Find out if Jerry can reduce your payments by an average of $150/month
Check your rate!

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings