2010 Audi A3: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2010 Audi A3 is the arrival of the fuel-efficient 2.0 TDI diesel model, while the former 3.2-liter V6 model is dropped. Audi also gives every A3 S line exterior styling and reorganizes the lineup into Premium and Premium Plus equipment levels.
About the 2010 Audi A3
2nd generation A3 (8P, 2006-2013 in the U.S.), second year after the 2009 refresh.
Audi positioned the 2010 A3 as a premium compact five-door that mixed hatchback usefulness with Audi cabin quality, sporty road manners, and efficient turbocharged power. Audi’s own material emphasizes versatility, 5-door flexibility, quality craftsmanship, and a choice between gasoline or clean-diesel power. In the U.S. range, it served as Audi’s smallest model and appealed to shoppers who wanted a luxury-brand feel and useful cargo space without stepping up to a larger sedan or SUV.
The 2010 A3 remains a compact five-door with three distinct roles: the 2.0T is the core gas model, the 2.0T Quattro adds all-wheel drive, and the new 2.0 TDI emphasizes fuel economy and strong low-speed pulling power. The TDI produces 140 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while both gas versions use a 200-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Leather seating, dual-zone automatic climate control, and S line exterior styling are shared highlights.
What changed, by category
2010 Audi A3 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, PZEV, 2.0L | 4-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 2.0L | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, PZEV, 2.0L |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Diesel | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 30 mpg | 21 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28–30 mpg | 42 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 140 hp | 200 hp |
| Torque | 207 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft | 207 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3300 lb | 3300 lb | 3300 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 19.5 cu-ft | 19.5 cu-ft | 19.5 cu-ft |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2010 Audi A3?
The biggest change is the new 2.0 TDI diesel model. It brings a 140-horsepower turbocharged diesel engine, strong 236 lb-ft torque output, front-wheel drive, and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Did Audi discontinue the V6 A3 for 2010?
Yes. Audi dropped the 3.2 Quattro for 2010, so the A3 lineup no longer has a V6 engine. The remaining gas models use a 200-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
Does every 2010 Audi A3 have S line styling?
Yes. S line front and rear exterior pieces and a roof spoiler are standard across the 2010 A3 lineup. Fog lights also became standard for this model year.
Does the 2010 Audi A3 have all-wheel drive?
Yes, but only the gas-powered 2.0T Quattro has all-wheel drive. The new 2.0 TDI diesel uses front-wheel drive, as does the regular 2.0T.
How is the 2010 Audi A3 lineup organized?
The 2010 A3 lineup is organized around Premium and Premium Plus equipment levels. Its main versions are the gas-powered 2.0T, the all-wheel-drive 2.0T Quattro, and the front-wheel-drive 2.0 TDI diesel.