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Audi has a solid lineup of luxury vehicles — with their good driving dynamics, premium features, and attractive designs. Also, compared to some other luxury brands, Audi models are relatively affordable. This includes the 2023 Audi A3 subcompact sports sedan, which is the cheapest new Audi car. Also, according to Car and Driver, it’s one of the best small luxury cars.

2023 Audi A3 is the cheapest new Audi car

Front angle view of 2023 Audi A3, cheapest new Audi and one of best small luxury cars (Car and Driver)
2023 Audi A3 | Audi

With a starting price of $35,400 MSRP, the 2023 Audi A3 is the cheapest new Audi car. The next most affordable new Audi models are the 2023 Q3 subcompact luxury crossover SUV ($39,200 MSRP) and the 2023 A4 compact luxury sedan ($40,300 MSRP).

Here are the cheapest new Audi cars:

  1. 2023 Audi A3: $35,400 MSRP
  2. 2023 Audi Q3: $36,800 MSRP
  3. 2023 Audi A4: $40,300 MSRP
  4. 2023 Audi Q5: $44,200 MSRP
  5. 2023 Audi A5 Sportback: $44,600 MSRP
  6. 2023 Audi A4 allroad quattro: $45,900 MSRP
  7. 2023 Audi A5: $46,700 MSRP
  8. 2023 Audi S3: $46,800 MSRP
  9. 2023 Audi Q4 e-tron: $49,800 MSRP
  10. 2023 Audi Q5 Sportback: $51,000 MSRP

There are quite a few new Audi cars in the $40,000-$50,000 price range. While not cheap, they are still financially accessible for many automotive shoppers. Also, other luxury brands, such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, don’t offer as many models in this price range.

2023 Audi A3 is one of the best small luxury cars, according to Car and Driver

Dashboard in 2023 Audi A3, most affordable new Audi and one of best small luxury cars (Car and Driver)
2023 Audi A3 | Audi

Not only is the 2023 Audi A3 the cheapest new Audi model, but it’s also one of the best small luxury cars. Car and Driver ranks it as the third-best subcompact luxury car. Also, essentially, Car and Driver has the A3 in the top four spots. The more powerful Audi S3 variant ranks first — and the ultra-performance RS 3 model is in the fourth spot.

Here are the best subcompact luxury cars, according to Car and Driver:

  1. 2023 Audi S3
  2. 2023 BMW 2 Series
  3. 2023 Audi A3
  4. 2023 Audi RS 3
  5. 2024 Acura Integra
  6. 2023 Mercedes-AMG CLA-Class
  7. 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA

In its evaluation, Car and Driver states that the A3 “packs a lot of premium content into its compact four-door body, and it also features spry handling and strong performance.” The automotive publication also highlights the “high-tech interior and fuel-efficient powertrain.”

What’s new for the 2023 A3?

The 2023 Audi A3 is primarily a carryover model, but it has some changes across the trim lineup. This includes the discontinuation of the top-of-the-line Prestige trim. Also, there are newly standard LED headlights for all trim levels, as well as better armrests. 

Additionally, the Premium trim now has adaptive cruise control as a standalone option, while the Premium Plus trim offers the LED interior lighting package. Plus, the Black Optic package has distinctive new 18-inch wheels — and the Convenience package adds a wireless smartphone charger. 

If you’re looking for an affordable Audi model, then check out the 2023 Audi A3 subcompact sports sedan. It’s the cheapest new Audi — and, according to Car and Driver, one of the best small luxury cars.

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