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Is an Audi A3 a good first car?
My son’s loved Audi cars for years, and now that he’s got his license, my husband and I want to help him buy his first car as a Christmas gift. Would the Audi A3 be a good first car?
Kathryn Mae Kurlychek · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
As far as luxury rides go, the
Audi A3
is a good first car. It’s got decent fuel economy, solid reliability ratings, and numerous accolades for safety from both the IIHS and NHTSA. Consumer Reports named Audi the #15th most reliable automaker out of 28 contenders, and RepairPal specifically ranked the Audi A3 #4 out of 17 compact luxury vehicles for its dependability. But a better option might be the Audi A1, the brand’s entry-level car. It’s easier to drive while still boasting top-notch fuel economy ratings and decent dependability—and it’s one of the safest premium vehicles in its class.
The drawbacks of both are pricey premiums and costly maintenance. Because luxury vehicles cost more to repair, they also come with a higher average insurance rate, both of which can be tough on first-time drivers. Additionally, older Audis will require more intensive maintenance and are associated with even higher repair bills.
All in all, the Audi A3 is a safe and steadfast first vehicle for young drivers—but if you’re looking for a good first car that you won’t have to be afraid about making mistakes in, a non-luxury vehicle may be a better fit.
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- Gregory R.
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